National Solar Energy Consultant (NOC Level)

Job Posting Organization:
The World Health Organization (WHO) is a specialized agency of the United Nations responsible for international public health. Established on April 7, 1948, WHO's mission is to promote health, keep the world safe, and serve vulnerable populations. The organization operates in over 150 countries and has more than 7,000 employees worldwide. WHO focuses on various health issues, including disease prevention, health systems strengthening, and emergency response, particularly in low-income countries facing public health challenges.

Job Overview:
The National Solar Energy Consultant will play a crucial role in conducting comprehensive energy assessments in targeted health facilities across Sudan. The consultant will provide technical advice on the planning, design, and installation of solar energy systems, aiming to develop sustainable, reliable, and climate-resilient energy solutions that enhance health services. The consultant will assess energy needs, evaluate electrical wiring, and analyze building conditions to determine solar-electrification requirements. This position is vital in addressing the energy crisis affecting Sudan's health system, which has been under severe pressure due to conflict, displacement, and economic instability. The consultant will work under the SHARE and SHIEP projects, focusing on electrifying health facilities to ensure reliable electricity for lifesaving medical equipment and health interventions, including maternal and newborn care, vaccine storage, and laboratory operations.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant's duties will include coordinating with various departments within WHO and liaising with contracted solar energy companies. Key responsibilities involve data collection and analysis, generating technical reports, and delivering outputs related to energy assessments, technical and economic designs, procurement support, and monitoring and evaluation of solar energy system installations. Specific tasks include preparing detailed reports and databases on energy systems, conducting energy-health needs assessments, developing techno-economic analyses and solar-system designs, providing procurement support, and ensuring compliance with quality control and safety standards during installation. The consultant will also be responsible for training facility staff on system operation and maintenance, as well as submitting monthly progress reports and a final consultancy report summarizing achievements and challenges.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering, renewable energy, or a related field. An advanced university degree or specialization focusing on renewable energy systems is desirable. Essential qualifications include at least 5 years of relevant experience in solar energy systems, particularly in low-income countries, and proven expertise in preparing technical documents for tendering processes and supervising solar energy projects. Desirable qualifications include experience in solar electrification of health-care facilities and familiarity with WHO or other UN agencies. Knowledge of climate-resilient energy practices and technologies is also essential.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering, renewable energy, or a related field. An advanced degree or specialization in renewable energy systems is preferred, indicating a higher level of expertise and understanding of the complexities involved in solar energy projects.

Experience:
The position requires at least 5 years of relevant experience in solar energy systems, particularly in contexts similar to those found in low-income countries. Candidates should have a proven track record of preparing technical documents for the tendering process and supervising solar energy projects of comparable size and scope. Experience working on solar electrification projects in health-care facilities and hospitals is highly desirable, as is familiarity with the operations of WHO or other UN agencies.

Languages:
Fluent knowledge of English is mandatory for this position. Proficiency in additional languages may be considered an asset, particularly if it enhances communication with local stakeholders or facilitates project implementation in diverse linguistic contexts.

Additional Notes:
The national consultant will be based in Khartoum, Sudan, with frequent travel to various states as part of the implementation plan. The selected consultant will be required to provide a medical certificate of fitness for work. The position may involve a contract duration that is not specified in the job ad, and it is essential for candidates to be prepared for the demands of the role, including the ability to handle pressure and adapt to feedback. The consultant will be expected to deliver high-quality results and maintain effective communication with all stakeholders involved in the projects.