Energy Expert

Job Posting Organization:
The Water, Environment and Climate (WEC) portfolio is part of the UNOPS Global Portfolio Office, based in Vienna with offices globally. Established to manage a portfolio exceeding 500 million USD over the last 15 years, WEC supports key initiatives through fund management, project implementation, and administrative support. The organization focuses on operationalizing partners' agendas with global and regional approaches, particularly in climate action and environmental conservation. WEC collaborates with nearly 200 countries and institutions to enhance the implementation of Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) and supports multilateral environmental agreements like the Paris Agreement and the Sustainable Development Goals.

Job Overview:
The Energy Expert will play a crucial role in supporting the Government of Namibia, specifically the Ministry of Environment and Tourism and the Ministry of Mines and Energy, in implementing the energy sector's NDC measures. This position involves updating and enhancing Namibia's NDC (NDC 3.0) and supporting the development of long-term low-emission development strategies (LT-LEDS) and project pipelines in the energy sector. The expert will conduct baseline assessments, engage stakeholders, identify mitigation and adaptation interventions, and provide technical support related to energy. The role requires collaboration with various government agencies and stakeholders to identify and conceptualize renewable energy and low-carbon projects that align with national climate targets. The Energy Expert will also lead feasibility studies, proposal writing, capacity building, and ensure gender and social inclusion in project designs.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Produce an Inception Report and work plan within 2 weeks of contract signing.
• Collaborate with government agencies and stakeholders to identify high-potential renewable energy and low-carbon projects.
• Assess current energy infrastructure and project opportunities.
• Provide strategic support for feasibility studies and technical assessments for potential energy projects.
• Lead the preparation of project proposals that meet international climate funding criteria.
• Provide training and capacity building for government officials and project teams.
• Ensure project designs integrate gender considerations and social inclusion.
• Prepare monthly and quarterly country update reports summarizing insights and progress updates.

Required Qualifications:
A master’s degree in public policy, development, climate change, natural resource management, environmental management, or a related field is required. Alternatively, a bachelor's degree in a related discipline with an additional 2 years of relevant work experience (totaling 7 years) may be accepted. Candidates must have at least 5 years of experience in conducting energy sector assessments and analysis relevant to NDCs and climate change policies. Demonstrated experience in developing bankable project proposals for funding in line with national climate actions is essential. Knowledge of climate change and NDCs, as well as familiarity with UNFCCC processes, is an asset.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess a master’s degree in a relevant field such as public policy, development, climate change, natural resource management, or environmental management. A bachelor's degree in a related discipline, combined with additional relevant work experience, may be accepted in lieu of an advanced degree.

Experience:
At least 5 years of experience in the energy sector, particularly in conducting assessments and analyses relevant to NDCs and climate change policies. Experience in developing bankable project proposals for funding aligned with national climate actions is required. Familiarity with the country's policy frameworks and climate change strategies is also necessary.

Languages:
Proficiency in English is required for this position. Additional language skills may be beneficial but are not mandatory.

Additional Notes:
This is a local position, and applicants must be nationals of Namibia or possess a valid residence permit to work in the country. The position is home-based, meaning the incumbent will work from government facilities and must use their own laptop and software. The contract duration is for 12 months, with a maximum of 220 working days, and there is a possibility of a 12-month extension based on performance and funding availability. Female candidates are strongly encouraged to apply.