National Solar Energy Expert

Job Posting Organization:
The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations is dedicated to achieving security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security for all and ensuring that people have regular access to enough high-quality food to lead active, healthy lives. Established in 1945, FAO has grown to include 194 member countries and works in over 130 countries worldwide. The organization focuses on improving agricultural productivity, enhancing food security, and promoting sustainable management of natural resources. FAO Iraq specifically supports the Government of Iraq in improving food security, sustainable agriculture, water management, and climate resilience, particularly through innovative projects like the installation of solar PV technologies for irrigation systems.

Job Overview:
The National Solar Energy Expert will play a crucial role in supporting the International Solar Energy Expert by providing technical and operational support throughout all phases of the solar PV system installation process. This position requires a strong focus on ensuring the quality, safety, and sustainability of solar PV systems installed under various projects implemented by FAO Iraq. The expert will be responsible for on-site technical assistance, quality assurance, inspections, and facilitating coordination with national and governorate-level institutions. Additionally, the expert will support the training of end users in the operation and maintenance of solar systems, ensuring that the systems are effectively utilized and maintained by the beneficiaries.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The National Solar Energy Expert will have a comprehensive set of responsibilities, including but not limited to: assisting in supervising the supply, delivery, installation, testing, and commissioning of solar PV systems; ensuring contractors adhere to approved technical designs and installation standards; participating in site surveys and quality control checks; maintaining detailed installation records; conducting post-installation performance verification; facilitating technical coordination with relevant ministries and stakeholders; ensuring compliance with environmental and social safeguards; organizing training sessions for beneficiaries; monitoring contractors’ work progress and compliance; preparing various reports and documentation; supporting gender-sensitive approaches in solar electrification; and documenting lessons learned for future projects.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a university degree in Electrical Engineering, Renewable Energy, Energy Systems, or a related field. Additionally, a minimum of 5 years of professional experience in solar PV systems design, installation, supervision, or inspection is required. Candidates must also be Iraqi nationals and have a working knowledge of both English and Arabic. Strong reporting and documentation skills, experience working with government institutions, and knowledge of Iraqi technical standards are also essential qualifications for this position.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a university degree in a relevant field such as Electrical Engineering, Renewable Energy, or Energy Systems. It is important that the degree is obtained from an institution accredited or recognized in the World Higher Education Database (WHED).

Experience:
The position requires at least 5 years of professional experience specifically in the areas of solar PV systems design, installation, supervision, or inspection. Candidates should have proven experience with solar-powered water-related projects and familiarity with civil and structural engineering, which would be considered advantageous.

Languages:
Candidates must have a working knowledge of English and Arabic. Proficiency in both languages is essential for effective communication and coordination with various stakeholders and beneficiaries.

Additional Notes:
The FAO does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process, including application, interview, or processing. Applications received after the closing date will not be accepted. Candidates must also be certified as medically fit for appointment and meet any residency or visa requirements. The appointment will be subject to security clearances. For additional employment opportunities, candidates are encouraged to visit the FAO employment website.