APDS Construction & Solar Energy Officer. At World Wide Fund For Nature

I. CONTEXT :

The importance of integrated socio-economic development at the level of Bayanga and other villages in the Dzanga Sangha Protected Areas (APDS) is at the heart of its operation. The continued identification of needs and investment opportunities for renewable energy production for the benefit of local socio-economic development in the Central African Republic is also supported by key development actors such as the UNDP and the EU.

The APDS has numerous solar installations (for its administrative center, its research camps and with partner organizations such as health centers), distributed across protected areas and its periphery. The total installation represents approximately 50kWp and a future installation of 100 kWp for the benefit of local communities is envisaged, with other renewable energy projects planned in the future.

While current staff employed by APDS have basic training in electrical engineering, there is a lack of capacity to manage solar equipment and its associated digital interfaces that communicate real-time data on utility performance, crucial for its adequate adaptive management, thus ensuring the longevity of the installations and the quality of the services that depend on them.

The purpose of this position is under the supervision of the APDS Logistics Manager, and in direct cooperation with the WWF Applied Energy Solutions Manager to supervise the construction of new facilities and the maintenance of existing ones, to ensure the continued operation of solar installations in the Dzanga Sangha park and training of electricians.

II. Main tasks and responsibilities:

• Construction and maintenance of various infrastructures (houses, stores, eco-guard posts, etc.) and roads outside the park;
• Supervision of the installation of the solar system for powering homes and other installations;
• Monitoring and daily maintenance of installations.
• Optimization of the use of installations in order to reduce fuel consumption as much as possible
• Mechanical immobilization/management of motorized equipment;
• Repair of equipment including maintenance of installations;
• Supervision of installation work of the satellite communication system, VHF, HF equipment;
• Supervision of technicians in installation and minor repair of generators, wiring, chargers/inverters, batteries, protection devices, etc.;
• Supervision of the installation of the 220 volt AC system (using diesel generators) and its maintenance;
• Support for technical team members;
• Development of standard operating procedures relevant to the position;
• Support for the park in the development of a reference framework for the provision of outsourced services and the purchase of goods and equipment

III. Experience and diplomas:

Functional skills required:

• A university or engineering degree in civil engineering, electricity, technology management or other related field of study.
• At least 5 years of experience in the technical and infrastructure field, with at least 2 years in supervisory capacity.
• Proven knowledge and experience in implementing appropriate and sustainable cutting-edge infrastructure technology.
• Qualified electrician with proven experience in the solar photovoltaic field:*
  • Experience with SMA and Victron brands at least.
  • Good knowledge of the French language
  • Willingness to spend several weeks or even months in a row in Dzanga Sangha Park

Behavioral skills required

• Ability to work in a multi-sectoral team;
• Exceptional leadership, teamwork, mentoring and development capabilities following organizational standards;
• Determination, good judgment, analytical/mathematical aptitude and problem-solving skills to act with authority and take risks in an environment with little direction from others;
• Proven understanding of logistics and procurement procedures;
• Ability to organize and prioritize work;
• Ability to write and present activity reports, in a logical and coherent manner (directives and manuals);
• Mastery of IT tools required;
• Knowledge of French and English (oral and written);

Adherence to WWF working methods (Behavior)

• Strive for impact “I’m results-oriented. Everything I do, the way I think, plan and implement is driven by a relentless pursuit of impact. »
• Listen Deeply “I go beyond my point of view and strive to see the big picture from different perspectives. I stay curious and listen deeply to what others have to say. »
• Collaborate openly “I am a global citizen working for a living planet. I constantly think about how with others, together, we can have more impact. I work across borders, openly ask for help and share what I know, both internally and externally. »
• Innovate without fear “I take risks to find better solutions. I measure progress and learn from my mistakes. I share both successes and failures. I encourage others to do the same. »

IV. Professional relationships :

Internal : WWF Country Director, WWF APDS Director, Head of APDS Units (Finance and Admin, Research, Ecotourism and Surveillance).

External: local, national and regional authorities, local civil society organizations, community representatives, business partners, TNS partners and donor representatives.