Chemonics seeks an Energy Sector Planning Advisor for the Power Africa Empower Southern Africa (ESA) Program funded by USAID. ESA is a 5-year regional program that covers South Africa, Lesotho, Eswatini, Botswana, Namibia, Angola, Zimbabwe, Zambia, Malawi, Mozambique, Madagascar, Comoros and Sao Tome and Principe. The primary purpose of ESA is to increase the availability of, access to, and use of affordable, reliable, sustainable and clean energy in Southern Africa in order to reach measurable development outcomes. Measurable development outcomes include economic growth, reducing poverty, improving livelihoods, and increasing inclusive access to electricity-enabled services in such areas as health, education, sanitation and food security. This position will be based in Pretoria, South Africa. We are looking for individuals who have a passion for making a difference in the lives of people and communities around the world.

Responsibilities include:

• Provide technical expertise and guidance on integrated resource energy planning, infrastructure development, and grid expansion, considering advancements in technology and best practices
• Identify opportunities to optimize energy resources, including renewable sources, to meet the region’s energy needs while minimizing environmental impact
• Develop comprehensive energy efficiency plans and strategies for organizations in line with ESA objectives
• Identify challenges and risks associated with energy plans and projects and develop mitigation strategies to address them
• Advise on policy formulation and reforms to enhance the energy sector’s affordability, efficiency, reliability, and sustainability
• Support capacity-building initiatives for local institutions, fostering expertise in energy planning, policy analysis, and implementation strategies
• Collaborate with regional stakeholders, including government agencies, utilities, international organizations, and communities, to foster cooperation and alignment in energy planning efforts
• Oversee short-term consultants
• Performs other duties as assigned by the Decarbonization Lead

Qualifications:

• Master’s degree in business administration, logistics, engineering, economics, sustainability, policy, or a related field
• Minimum ten years of experience in energy sector planning, preferably in Southern Africa
• Demonstrated experience in policy development, strategic planning, and project evaluation within the energy industry
• Ability to adapt to evolving energy landscapes, regulatory changes, and technological advancements in the energy sector
• Familiarity promoting gender equality and social inclusion in the energy sector
• Prior experience with managing a team of subject matter experts across multiple countries
• Familiarity with design and implementation
• Demonstrated leadership, versatility and integrity
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills in English, with command of French or Portuguese a plus