Associate Professional – Energy Planning and Modelling

Vacancy announcement

Secretariat of International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA)

IRENA Innovation and Technology Centre

Publication/Transmission Date:       24 April 2025

Deadline For Application:                  23 May 2025 (at midnight, Abu Dhabi local Time)

Title and Grade: Associate Professional – Energy Planning and Modelling

Indicative Annual Salary:  USD 36,000 to 54,000 and other benefits[1]

Duration of Appointment:             One year, with possible extension

Duty Station:                                       Bonn, Germany 

Expected Date for Entry on Duty:   As soon as possible

Introduction

The International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) is an inter-governmental organization mandated with the widespread and increased adoption and sustainable use of all forms of renewable energy. At present, IRENA has 170 Members (169 States and the European Union) that acceded to its Statute, and 14 additional States in the process of accession. IRENA supports countries in their transition to a sustainable energy future and serves as the principal platform for international cooperation, a centre of excellence, and a repository of policy, technology, resource, and financial knowledge on renewable energy. The Agency implements its mandate with the view of sustainable development, increased energy security, and low-carbon economic growth and prosperity.

The purpose of the Associate Professional (AP) Programme is to enable talented and promising university graduates and post graduates to gain first-hand experience in the work of IRENA and a deeper insight into the role of the Agency in promoting the widespread and increased adoption and sustainable use of all forms of renewable energy. The programme offers valuable exposure to IRENA’s main activities and programmatic areas. On occasion, there are also opportunities in support areas such as administration, finance, human resources and public information. The Agency also benefits from gaining new and motivated members of staff, bringing new skills and perspectives.

Duties and Responsibilities

Under the Work Programme 2024-2025, IRENA’s goals include assisting regional- and country-level decision making to support implementation strategies to reduce global emissions, adapt to climate change, and improve energy access, security and affordability for sustainable development. Moreover, while acting as a global voice of renewables, IRENA pursues excellence in renewables innovation, development and deployment, and promotes practical application of knowledge for systemic change. To achieve these aims, IRENA’s Innovation and Technology Centre (IITC) provides support to countries in building their planning capacities in using long-term planning models and tools. The Centre also works towards providing technology insights through a long-term energy planning toolbox, in conjunction to developing analysis on the prospects of energy systems for various geographical regions.

Under the supervision of the Team Lead – Energy Planning and Modelling of IITC, this AP position will contribute to work on energy transition analysis and energy planning support, primarily on the activities related to (1) consolidating and analysing energy system modelling data and outputs for different IRENA deliverables, such as regional energy transition outlooks; (2) enhancing, developing and applying long-term energy planning models and tools for IRENA analysis and for capacity building purposes; (3) supporting the production of technical publications and associated materials for distribution to public, academic, and member country stakeholders; (4) providing analytical support to other programs within IRENA. 

More specifically the AP will contribute to the following tasks:

Competencies

Professionalism: Shows pride in work and in achievements; demonstrates professional competence and mastery of subject matter; is conscientious and efficient in meeting commitments, observing deadlines and achieving results; shows persistence when faced with difficult problems or challenges; remains calm in stressful situations.

Communication: Speaks and writes clearly and effectively; listens to others, correctly interprets messages from others and responds appropriately; asks questions to clarify, and exhibits interest in having two-way communication; tailor language, tone, style and format to match audience; demonstrates openness in sharing information and keeping people informed.

Teamwork: Works collaboratively with colleagues to achieve organizational goals; solicits input by genuinely valuing others’ ideas and expertise; is willing to learn from others; places team agenda before personal agenda; supports and acts in accordance with final group decision, even when such decisions may not entirely reflect own position; shares credit for team accomplishments and accepts joint responsibility for team shortcomings.

Eligibility

Applicants should be no more than 32 years of age at the time of submitting their applications.

Qualifications

Education: Advanced university degree in energy system analysis, economics, engineering, or related fields. A first-level university degree in combination with qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced university degree.

Experience/Skills: Strong analytical skills and expertise in energy data analysis, including the application and/or development of energy modeling tools. Experience with energy systems models, especially SPLAT/MESSAGE modelling framework, would be an advantage. Programming skills (e.g. in GAMS, Python, or R) would be beneficial. Strong communication skills and the ability to adapt writing style to suit an audience are also required. A proven track record in the above areas (e.g., relevant scientific publications and reports) would be an advantage.

Languages: Excellent command of written and spoken English is a must. Knowledge of French and other languages would be an advantage. Good drafting skills both in technical and non-technical outputs in English.

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Qualified candidates must apply for the abovementioned vacancy on-line, through IRENA’s recruitment platform, ORC by submitting a complete and comprehensive CV and a letter of interest, including details of three professional references who will be contacted if their application is shortlisted.

Applications from qualified women are highly encouraged.

Please note that only candidates under serious consideration will be contacted for an interview and will receive notice of the outcome of the selection process.

[1] Amount of monthly lump-sum depends on qualifications and years of relevant work experience. In addition: a monthly accommodation allowance (EUR 600); relocation grant upon arrival/separation if relocation involved (USD 1,200); installation grant if relocation involved (USD 1,300); health insurance; other entitlements as applicable.