Associate Professional - South Asia

 Vacancy Announcement

Secretariat of the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA)

Country Engagement and Partnerships (CEP) Division

Publication Date\:                               08 September 2021

Deadline for Application\:                  22 September 2021 (at midnight, Abu Dhabi Local Time)

Title and Grade\:                                 Associate Professional – South Asia

Indicative Annual Salary\:                  USD 36,000 to 54,000 and other benefits

Duration of Appointment\:                One year, with possible extension

Duty Station\:                                      Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates

Expected Date for Entry on Duty\:    As soon as possible 

Background

The International Renewable Energy Agency is an inter-governmental organisation headquartered in Abu Dhabi, mandated to promote the widespread and increased adoption and sustainable use of all forms of renewable energy in the pursuit of sustainable development, energy access, energy security and low-carbon economic growth and prosperity. IRENA’s mission is to play a leading role in the ongoing transformation of the global energy systems as a centre of excellence for knowledge and innovation, a global voice of renewable energy, a network hub for all stakeholders and a source of advice and support for countries. At present, IRENA has 165 Members (164 States and the European Union) that acceded to its Statute, and 19 additional States in the process of accession and actively engaged.

The Country Engagement and Partnerships Division (CEP) leads the work with countries. It supports them in the development and implementation of national and regional renewable energy strategies, by contextualizing the knowledge being developed in the other three divisions of IRENA, to the national requirements. Its activities enable a systematic overview of country and regional needs, experiences and trends to help facilitate cross-fertilization of best practices between countries and regions, and shape IRENA's future programmatic priorities.

On country level engagement, IRENA has developed the Renewables Readiness Assessment (RRA), a country led process, with a comprehensive tool for assessing key conditions for renewable energy technology development and deployment and the actions necessary to further create an enabling framework for renewable energy deployment. IRENA is organising a series of Investment Forums in 14 clusters and sub-regions, including in Asia, consisting of three components of enabling frameworks for investment, project support and capacity building. Investment Forums will contribute to the materialisation of investments in renewable energy, with impacts on the ground. IRENA is also providing support to countries in enhancing the renewable energy ambition in their NDCs and supporting the implementation of NDCs. IRENA is also establishing a Practitioners’ Network to support its work on NDCs and other requests from Members. In addition, IRENA is also supporting a number of Collaborative Frameworks including on Enhancing Dialogue on High Shares of Renewables in Energy Systems.

To further support this progress and based on the Agency’s strong focus on energy transition, IRENA works closely with governments across Asia sub-regions to identify and implement effective policy frameworks that support renewable energy market development. IRENA has been deepening its South Asia engagement in collaboration with regional intergovernmental organizations, such as South Asian Association for Regional Co-operation (SAARC) and the International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development (ICIMOD). ICIMOD and IRENA are collaborating to promote renewable energy in the mountain communities of Hindu Kush Himalaya region.

The purpose of the Associate Professional (AP) Programme is to enable talented and promising university graduates and post graduates to gain first-hand experience in the work of IRENA and a deeper insight into the role of the Agency in promoting the widespread and increased adoption and sustainable use of all forms of renewable energy. The programme offers valuable exposure to IRENA’s main activities and programmatic areas. The Agency also benefits from gaining new and motivated members of staff, bringing new skills and perspectives.

Duties and Responsibilities

Under the overall guidance of the Director of Country Engagement and Partnerships (CEP) Division and the immediate supervision of Regional Programme Officer – Asia and Pacific, the Associate Professional – South Asia

• Support the design and implementation of IRENA’s activities and initiatives in South Asia Region, with a particular focus on India;
• Support the implementation of Renewables Readiness Assessments (RRA), combined RRA-Renewable Energy Roadmap (REmap) , combined RRA and bankability studies as well as post-RRA support activities, etc. upon request;
• Support the coordination and implementation of NDC and LTS support in the South Asia region;
• Identify and support result-oriented partnerships with relevant stakeholders at the national level in South Asia (including, government institutions, think tanks, financing institutions, international and regional organizations, private sector, etc.) to catalyse implementation of IRENA activities
• Research trends, key topics, emerging issues and national initiatives related to renewable energy development and climate change in South Asia
• Support the stakeholder outreach and coordination in the context of IRENA's country engagement, Collaborative Frameworks, Practitioners’ Network, country framework agreements, project facilitation and regional initiatives;
• Assist in the organisation of consultative workshops, Investment Forums, collaborative platforms, Practitioners’ Network and technical meetings ensuring effective participation of key stakeholders, experts and partners;
• Support the planning and coordination of the Work Programme activities of the Division and contribute to their successful implementation;
• Support the Division in a number of matters such as\:
• Perform other related duties, as required.

Competencies

Professionalism\: Demonstrated ability to work well with a team. Shows pride in work and in achievements; is conscientious and efficient in meeting commitments, observing deadlines and achieving results; is motivated by professional rather than personal concerns; shows persistence when faced with difficult problems or challenges; remains calm in stressful situations.
Communication\: Speaks and writes clearly and effectively; listens to others, correctly interprets messages from others and responds appropriately; asks questions to clarify and exhibits interest in having two-way communication; tailors language, tone, style and format to match audience; demonstrates openness in sharing information and keeping people informed. Excellent drafting and analytical skills and ability to prepare reports that are clear, concise and meaningful.
Teamwork\: Works collaboratively with colleagues to achieve organizational goals; solicits input by genuinely valuing others' ideas and expertise; is willing to learn from others; places team agenda before personal agenda; supports and acts in accordance with final group decision, even when such decisions may not entirely reflect own position; shares credit for team accomplishments and accepts joint responsibility for team shortcomings.

Eligibility

Applicants should be no more than 32 years of age at the time of submitting their applications.

Qualifications 

Education\: Advanced University degree (Master's degree or equivalent) in engineering, economics, energy, international relations or another relevant field. A first-level university degree in combination with qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced university degree.
Experience\: Experience in the energy sector in South Asia, with exposure to climate change mitigation; experience in international cooperation and in dealing with multilateral agencies, networks and forums; strong knowledge of technical and policy aspects regarding renewable energy and climate change and knowledge of international development issues is an added value; experience of work in intergovernmental and regional organizations and demonstrated ability to implement projects/programmes are additional assets. 
Language\: Excellent command of both written and spoken English. Fluency in other languages spoken in South Asia and India desirable.

Qualified candidates must apply for the above-mentioned vacancy online, through IRENA’s recruitment platform, Taleo by submitting a complete and comprehensive application, CV and a letter of interest, including details of three professional references who will be contacted if their application is shortlisted.

Applications from qualified women, especially from nationals of developing countries, are highly encouraged.

Please note that only candidates under serious consideration will be contacted for an interview and will receive notice of the outcome of the selection process.