Energy Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The job posting organization is UNHCR, the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, which was established in 195

• Its mission is to safeguard the rights and well-being of refugees, forcibly displaced communities, and stateless people. UNHCR operates in over 130 countries, providing assistance and protection to millions of people worldwide. The organization focuses on ensuring that everyone has the right to seek asylum and find safe refuge in another country, and it strives to promote durable solutions for refugees, including voluntary repatriation, local integration, or resettlement to a third country.

Job Overview:
The Energy Officer position is a home-based consultancy role that spans a duration of 11 months, starting on April 1, 202

• The primary function of the Energy Officer is to provide technical support to UNHCR in enhancing access to sustainable energy for persons of concern (PoCs), which includes refugees and internally displaced persons (IDPs). The role emphasizes the importance of clean, affordable, and reliable energy services as a critical component of humanitarian response and sustainable economic development. The Energy Officer will work to implement sustainable energy strategies, assess alternative energy sources, and design projects that promote self-reliance and protection for PoCs. This position requires collaboration with various stakeholders, including government entities, NGOs, and private sector partners, to ensure that energy initiatives are effectively integrated into UNHCR's operations and aligned with the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The Energy Officer will also be responsible for documenting project developments and maintaining communication channels among key stakeholders.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Energy Officer will have a comprehensive set of duties and responsibilities, including but not limited to: supporting the implementation of sustainable energy strategies in coordination with partners; assessing and analyzing cost-effective sources of alternative energy; designing specific projects for energy solutions; collaborating with various sectors such as Environment, Protection, and Public Health; coordinating with government and NGO partners to implement renewable energy strategies; monitoring and coordinating sustainable energy activities; establishing links with relevant organizations; ensuring health and safety standards are met; documenting project development stages; promoting effective communication among stakeholders; staying informed about governmental energy developments; representing UNHCR in international meetings; identifying and managing risks; and performing other related duties as required.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a minimum of 6 years of relevant experience with an undergraduate degree, or 5 years with a graduate degree, or 4 years with a doctorate degree in fields related to Energy, Energy Engineering, Environment, Environmental Engineering, or Environmental Sciences. Essential qualifications include experience in humanitarian situations and a proven knowledge of sustainable energy, along with technical skills in the setup, design, and monitoring of energy programs from a multi-sectoral and protection perspective. Desirable qualifications include knowledge of international energy policies and regulations, renewable energy frameworks, financial management, and business development related to renewable energy.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for the Energy Officer position includes a Bachelor's degree in Energy, Energy Engineering, Environment, Environmental Engineering, or Environmental Sciences. Advanced degrees in these fields are preferred and may substitute for years of experience as outlined in the qualifications.

Experience:
The position requires a significant level of experience, specifically 6 years of relevant work experience for candidates with an undergraduate degree, 5 years for those with a graduate degree, and 4 years for those holding a doctorate. Experience should be in humanitarian contexts, focusing on sustainable energy solutions and technical program management.

Languages:
For this position, knowledge of English is mandatory, along with proficiency in the UN working language of the duty station if it is not English. For national professional roles, knowledge of the local language is also required. Additional language skills may be beneficial but are not mandatory.

Additional Notes:
This is a home-based position, which allows for flexibility in work location. The contract duration is for 11 months, and the position is classified under the International Staff Member / Affiliate Type. The role is remote, and candidates from various locations, including South Africa, are encouraged to apply. The position does not have a hardship level, indicating a supportive working environment. Compensation and benefits details are typically provided during the hiring process.