Senior Energy Researcher (6 Month Contract)

Pele Energy Group; Sandton; On-site; ZAR 200 000 - 300 000; Full time

Job summary

An energy research organization in Sandton seeks a Senior Energy Researcher to lead high-impact research on the energy sector's dynamics. The ideal candidate has a Master's or PhD in a related field and over 8 years of experience. Responsibilities include conducting research, guiding decision-making, and fostering a culture of continuous learning. The role emphasizes strategic insights and collaboration with internal teams to optimize energy solutions.

Qualifications

• 8+ years of experience in energy research, with a strong understanding of technical and techno-political issues.
• Deep knowledge of South Africa’s energy policies and global energy trends.
• Proven ability to deliver high-quality research reports for senior leadership.

Responsibilities

• Conduct advanced research on technical and techno-political issues in the energy sector.
• Generate actionable insights on macro-economic factors affecting energy investments.
• Provide research-driven guidance to the Exco and board on strategic trajectories.

Skills

Research Expertise

Energy Sector Knowledge

Communication Skills

Collaboration

Strategic Thinking

Education

Master’s or PhD in Energy Studies, Engineering, Economics or related field

Job description

The Senior Energy Researcher will be a thought leader responsible for generating high-impact research on the technical and techno-political dynamics shaping the energy sector in South Africa and globally. This individual will create and disseminate knowledge to inform the organisation’s decision-making, guide engineering and investment teams, and foster a culture of continuous learning across the organisation. Research outputs will address critical technical, political, and macro-economic issues, equipping the executive committee (Exco), board and clients with actionable insights for strategic decision‑making.

Key Responsibilities

1. Research Development and Delivery

• Conduct advanced research on technical and techno‑political issues in the energy sector, both in South Africa and internationally.
• Analyse global and local trends in energy policy, technology development, and market dynamics to identify opportunities and risks for the organisation.
• Generate actionable insights on macro‑economic factors affecting energy investments, operations, and development.

2. Knowledge Management and Dissemination

• Drive a knowledge‑driven culture by ensuring teams have access to the latest research, trends, and industry developments.
• Prepare high‑quality reports, white papers, and presentations for internal and external stakeholders, including client delivery.
• Organise workshops, seminars, and briefings to share knowledge and insights across the organisation.

3. Support for Strategic Decision‑Making

• Provide research‑driven guidance to the Exco and board on the strategic trajectory of the energy sector.
• Develop position papers on critical issues, including energy policy, market regulation, and industry innovation.
• Assess the socio‑political and economic implications of key industry developments and offer strategic recommendations.

4. Collaboration with Internal Teams

• Work closely with engineering and development teams to align technical and social developments with global trends and best practices.
• Collaborate with project development and investment teams to evaluate the feasibility and impact of new opportunities.
• Support operations teams with insights into optimising power plant performance in the context of evolving technologies and market dynamics.

5. Thought Leadership

• Support Pele Energy Group and Knowledge Pele staff in preparing for industry forums, conferences, and policy discussions to establish the organisation as a leader in energy research and innovation.
• Publish articles, reports, and papers that showcase the organisation’s expertise in the energy sector.

Desired Skills & Qualifications

• A Master’s or PhD in Energy Studies, Engineering, Economics, or a related field.
• 8+ years of experience in energy research, with a strong understanding of both technical and techno‑political issues in the sector.
• Deep knowledge of South Africa’s energy policies, macro‑economic factors, and global energy trends.
• Proven ability to deliver high‑quality research reports and strategic recommendations for senior leadership.
• Experience working in or collaborating with energy‑related industries, such as renewable energy, utilities, or energy policy organisations.
• Research Expertise: Strong ability to design and conduct complex research, analyse data, and present findings effectively.
• Energy Sector Knowledge: Deep understanding of technical aspects (e.g., renewable technologies, grid systems) and techno‑political factors (e.g., policy, regulation).
• Macro‑Economic Understanding: Ability to assess the economic implications of energy sector developments and provide strategic advice.
• Communication Skills: Excellent written and verbal communication skills to convey complex ideas to diverse audiences, including executives and board members.
• Collaboration: Strong interpersonal skills to work effectively with multidisciplinary teams.
• Strategic Thinking: Ability to connect research insights to organisational goals and broader energy sector dynamics.

Competencies

Leadership Capabilities

• Participative Leadership
• Planning & Organising
• Monitoring & Measuring

Cognitive Capabilities

• Analysis & Attention to detail
• Problem Solving
• Critical thinking

Interpersonal Capabilities

• Assertive
• Methodical
• Drive & Action‑Oriented
• Flexibility
• Excellence & Quality Orientation