Senior Technical Advisor - Accelerating the Energy Transition in Africa Program

Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbH; Pretoria; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Job summary

Join a leading global development organization as a Senior Technical Advisor focused on accelerating Africa's energy transition. Based in Pretoria, you will strengthen project preparation for renewable energy, engage with financial institutions, and significantly influence infrastructure planning on the continent. Your 10+ years of experience and Master’s degree will help drive impactful projects from concept to implementation in collaboration with AUDA-NEPAD.

Qualifications

• At least 10 years’ experience in infrastructure project preparation and energy transition in Africa.
• Proven ability to collaborate with financial institutions and unlock funding.
• Strong background in project management and consultancy oversight.

Responsibilities

• Support AUDA-NEPAD in shaping project preparation and delivery.
• Facilitate access to finance for renewable energy projects.
• Manage consultancies and service providers.

Skills

Project Management

Stakeholder Engagement

Strategic Thinking

Analytical Skills

Education

Master’s degree in Engineering, Infrastructure Planning, Energy Systems, or related field

Job description

Are you ready to shape the future of energy in Africa?

Based in Hatfield, Pretoria - with frequent engagement at AUDA-NEPAD’s Midrand office - this strategic role offers the opportunity to influence continental infrastructure planning at the highest level.

Join us on a fixed-term contract until 30 November 2027, reporting directly to the AV of Support to PIDA/ICA and help drive Africa’s energy transition from concept to implementation.

What This Role Is About

GIZ is recruiting a Senior Technical Advisor to support the regional programme Accelerating the Energy Transition in Africa, with a focus on strengthening early-stage project preparation mechanisms and unlocking investment for renewable energy infrastructure.

The role sits at the intersection of continental energy planning and sustainable infrastructure development, directly supporting AUDA-NEPAD in operationalising the Service Delivery Mechanism (SDM). It also serves as a critical connector to project preparation facilities, private investors, and financial institutions - moving projects from idea to bankability.

What You Will Do

Support AUDA-NEPAD in shaping project preparation and delivery:

• Strengthen institutional capacity for SDM with a focus on renewable energy
• Streamline guidelines and tracking tools across the project lifecycle
• Design and support piloting initiatives and assess their impact
• Lead stakeholder engagements, technical inputs, and manage consultancy assignments
  
  

Bridge The Gap Between Project Preparation And Financing

• Build networks with Project Preparation Facilities and funding institutions
• Facilitate access to finance for early and late-stage renewable energy projects
• Drive AUDA-NEPAD’s engagement with investors and the private sector
• Support development of a dynamic project portfolio and showcase it at forums
  
  

Additional Responsibilities

• Reporting, monitoring, knowledge sharing, and strategic content development
• Day-to-day management of consultancies and service providers
  
  

Minimum Requirements

What we are looking for:

• Master’s degree in Engineering, Infrastructure Planning, Energy Systems, Renewable Energy, or related field
• At least 10 years’ experience in infrastructure project preparation and energy transition in Africa
• Proven ability to collaborate with financial institutions and unlock funding
• Strong background in project management, consultancy oversight and process optimisation
  
  

What Will Set You Apart

• Experience advising AU institutions and working across continental energy initiatives like AfSEM and CMP
• Deep understanding of organisational development, governance frameworks, and public sector advisory work
• Skilled in strategic thinking, stakeholder engagement, and clear communication
  
  

What You Will Bring To The Team

• Independent and proactive working style
• Commitment to collaboration and continuous learning
• Strong analytical skills and a solutions-focused mindset
• Flexibility, cultural sensitivity, and attention to detail
  
  

Why join us

At GIZ, you join a global network committed to making development cooperation more impactful, inclusive, and forward-thinking. Diversity, equity, and inclusion are not just words—they shape how we work. We especially encourage women and persons with disabilities to apply.

How To Apply

Please submit the following documents:

• A concise 1-page motivation letter outlining your suitability for the role, what value you bring to the programme
• A detailed CV
• A copy of your South African ID (or proof of eligibility to work in South Africa)
  
  

Deadline for applications: 27 June 2025