Energy Efficiency Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
The job posting organization is the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), which leads the United for Efficiency (U4E) initiative. UNEP was established in 1972 and has since been at the forefront of environmental governance and sustainable development. The organization operates globally, with a mission to encourage sustainable development through sound environmental practices. UNEP works with various stakeholders, including governments, civil society, and the private sector, to promote policies that foster sustainable practices. The U4E initiative, launched in 2014, aims to help developing and emerging markets transition to energy-efficient technologies, thereby reducing energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions. UNEP has a diverse portfolio of projects and collaborates with multiple partners, including multilateral funds and philanthropic organizations, to implement its initiatives.

Job Overview:
The Energy Efficiency Specialist will play a crucial role in supporting sustainable cooling and standards development. This position involves preparing data collection reports for Room Air Conditioners (RACs), Commercial Refrigeration Equipment (CRE), and other sectors. The specialist will conduct cost-benefit analyses and draft Minimum Energy Performance Standards (MEPS) and labeling frameworks that align with both regional and international standards. The role also includes documenting stakeholder consultations and capacity-building activities, developing communication materials and awareness campaigns, and contributing news stories and briefs for regional and global dissemination. The consultant will consolidate progress reports for donors and internal management, providing technical input and guidance to project teams and stakeholders on energy efficiency policy development activities. This position is essential for ensuring that projects are effectively coordinated and implemented, particularly in Southeast Asia and other emerging regions, with a focus on sustainable cooling and energy efficiency.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Energy Efficiency Specialist will be responsible for a wide range of duties, including supporting the Project Manager in planning, implementing, and completing ongoing and new U4E projects. Specific tasks include: supporting U4E activities in Southeast Asia, particularly in Malaysia and Singapore; developing MEPS for Commercial Refrigeration Equipment in Malaysia; preparing and submitting Small-Scale Funding Agreements and donor agreements; contributing to the focus on sustainable data centres; liaising with governments and technical experts; supporting regional coordination for the ASEAN Cooling Strategy; gathering information and organizing calls for market transformation projects; acting as the primary liaison between U4E and stakeholders; facilitating consultations and discussions; strengthening partnerships; preparing reports for internal and external audiences; writing funding proposals; representing project teams at workshops; developing content for outreach; coordinating with communications teams; managing the U4E SharePoint site; conducting outreach to project partners; tracking deliverables and financial information; planning and hosting meetings; and maintaining accurate documentation.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a bachelor’s degree in policy, business, accounting, or international economics, along with a minimum of seven years of professional experience in stakeholder management, regulatory compliance, and project management, particularly in the Southeast Asia region. Additionally, candidates should have at least two years of experience in energy efficiency, specifically in energy policy and international development programs, as well as experience in coordinating projects related to energy-efficient lighting and appliances. Familiarity with appliance technologies and excellent communication skills on energy or environmental topics are essential. Practical experience within a UN agency is considered an advantage, and candidates should demonstrate a strong ability to collaborate with teams and adapt to evolving project needs.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field such as policy, business, accounting, or international economics. This foundational education is critical for understanding the complexities of energy efficiency policies and project management in the context of international development.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of seven years of professional experience, with a focus on stakeholder management, regulatory compliance, and project management. Candidates should have at least two years of experience specifically in energy efficiency, including energy policy and international development programs. Experience in coordinating projects related to energy-efficient technologies and developing funding proposals is also necessary. Additionally, candidates should have experience in regional harmonization efforts in developing countries and in building coalitions to support energy efficiency initiatives.

Languages:
Fluency in spoken and written English is mandatory for this position. Proficiency in additional languages may be considered an asset, particularly if they are relevant to the regions in which U4E operates, such as languages spoken in Southeast Asia.

Additional Notes:
The position is remote and expected to last for six months. There are no fees associated with the recruitment process, as the United Nations does not charge applicants at any stage. The role is full-time, and candidates should be prepared to engage with a diverse range of stakeholders and contribute to the broader goals of the U4E initiative.