Chemonics seeks an Energy Transition Specialist 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:

• Develop and implement plans and strategies to facilitate the transition from conventional energy sources to renewable and sustainable energy solutions
• Identify potential barriers to energy transition in ESA countries
• Facilitate expansion of manufacturing hubs in the ESA region for key energy transition hardware and software including identifying opportunities for local manufacturing and investment
• Collaborate with the Just Energy Transition (JET) Program to implement successful energy sector transition initiatives
• Provide technical expertise and guidance on renewable energy technologies, energy storage systems, grid modernization, efficient and smart appliances and other relevant areas critical for energy transition
• Identify energy efficiency (EE) and demand side management (DSM) strategies to facilitate load management
• Engage with national manufacturing associations to announce competitively awarded grants and technical assistance for small and medium enterprises
• Collaborate with stakeholders, government bodies, and policymakers to advocate for and contribute to the development of policies that support the transition to clean energy
• Oversee short-term consultants
• Perform other duties as assigned by the Decarbonization Lead

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in business administration, logistics, engineering, economics, sustainability, policy, or a related field, Master’s degree preferred
• Minimum eight years of experience in the energy sector, with a focus on renewable energy, energy policy, or sustainable development
• Strong knowledge of renewable energy technologies, market dynamics, policy frameworks, and regulatory environments
• Ability to adapt to evolving energy landscapes
• 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