On-Grid Specialist at RTI International March 2024,Jobs Research Triangle Institute (RTI) brings over six decades of experience in aiding governments, communities, and the private sector globally. As a nonprofit, independent research institute headquartered in North Carolina, USA, RTI boasts a workforce of approximately 6,000 employees with extensive international development project experience. Within RTI’s International Development Group, the Sustainable Growth & Resilience (SG&R) technical unit amalgamates experts and resources across food security, agriculture, energy, environment, water, governance, and economic opportunity to address climate change, resilience building, and economic growth on a global scale.
Project Overview
Funded by USAID, the Empowering East and Central Africa (EECA) program aims to enhance the accessibility of affordable, reliable, sustainable, and clean energy in East and Central Africa. This initiative targets the eradication of energy poverty, acceleration towards a carbon-free future, and enhancement of energy sector investment and innovation. EECA focuses on facilitating increased connectivity of East and Central African homes, businesses, and institutions to dependable electricity, promoting its productive utilization, reducing greenhouse gas emissions through cleaner electricity generation, and fostering energy sector investment in collaboration with regional governments.
Position Overview
The role of the Tanzania On-Grid Specialist, based in Tanzania, involves managing on-grid activities for the EECA program within the country. Reporting to the East Africa Regional Lead, the specialist will collaborate with USAID, governmental bodies, energy sector entities, private sector stakeholders, development partners, and other relevant parties. The position requires offering technical support in the energy sector and acting as a coordinator and advocate for on-grid project activities aligned with program objectives.
Responsibilities
Assist energy sector entities and decision-makers in advancing their energy strategic and economic growth objectives in on-grid power development. Support utilities in expanding grid connections and facilitating cost-effective utility connections. Aid in planning clean generation and transmission expansion in accordance with national objectives.
Offer or facilitate the provision of technical assistance to utilities on various topics including loss reduction, financial modeling, climate resilience, and power purchase agreements (PPAs).
Monitor power transaction progress towards financial closure and commissioning. Establish and maintain strong relationships with key stakeholders in the Tanzanian energy sector and power development entities.
Support the development and implementation of enabling policies, regulations, and regulatory processes in collaboration with the Energy Regulator.
Provide regular updates to EECA leadership and USAID on project progress through weekly, quarterly, and ad hoc reports.
Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree with 10 years of experience, master’s degree with 8 years of experience, or equivalent combination of education and experience. Minimum of 5 years of relevant experience in the power sector focusing on planning,
utility performance, turnaround, improvement, PPAs, or sector regulation. Strong conceptualization and execution skills. Demonstrated connections with Tanzania government energy sector institutions. Proficient English writing and communication skills.
Eligible to work in Tanzania.
EEO & Pay Equity Statements
RTI upholds its commitment to equal opportunity employment. All qualified candidates will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.