Programme Associate, Renewable Energy (Odisha) 

The International Forum for Environment, Sustainability & Technology (iFOREST), is looking for dynamic and motivated young professionals to provide comprehensive technical support to renewable energy (RE) nodal agencies in Odisha.   

This role involves supporting the development, assessment, and implementation of RE projects in Odisha, with a focus on techno-commercial, financial, and regulatory aspects. The candidate will assist in bid management, advisory services, and programme strategy while contributing to the overall growth of RE initiatives in Odisha. 

The candidate must clearly understand and appreciate the role played by think tanks in shaping public policy and supporting their implementation. 

Number of positions: 2  

Location: Bhubaneswar, Odisha 

Type: On-premise 

Required Experience: 3 to 4 years 

Education: Master’s Degree (preferred) 

Reporting to: Regional Director  

iFOREST 

iFOREST is an independent not-for-profit research and innovation organisation that was established in 2019 to identify, promote and scale up solutions for pressing environment-development challenges in India and other developing countries in Asia and Africa. 

Our work is rooted in regional priorities to accelerate environmental actions at the sub-national level and to improve national policies and plans to support it. Our mission is to address the unique needs of regions by leveraging our resources and expertise to scale up national action and make a global impact. We use our regional knowledge to inform national policy and plans and strengthen international collaboration. 

To achieve our goals, we conduct independent evidence-based research, develop new knowledge and innovative solutions, convene stakeholders to increase awareness and build consensus, and partner with think tanks, civil society, government agencies, philanthropies and industry to scale up solutions. 

The Clean Energy Programme 

The Clean Energy programme of iFOREST focuses on the issue of growing regional imbalance in India’s renewable energy (RE) expansion. Given that the installed capacity of RE is mainly focused in the southern and western states, the Clean Energy programme seeks to catalyse inclusive green energy transitions in the eastern and northeastern states. The programme aims to support the development of RE, including distributed RE, in ‘low-RE’ states to meet the 500 GW target by 2030.  

To achieve this objective, iFOREST works closely with implementors, regulators and policymakers at the state level, industry representatives, and civil society/ research organisations. The work cuts across independent research, structured engagement and implementation support initiatives.   

The strategic focus of our work in Odisha is to enhance the contribution of renewable energy in the state’s energy mix, through technical support extended to state agencies, independent research and stakeholder engagement.    

The Role 

The Programme Associate, RE in Odisha will be responsible for undertaking a comprehensive set of activities for providing technical support to the state nodal agencies in implementing the Odisha Renewable Energy Policy, 2022.  

This would entail: 

  • Support development and assessment of RE technologies and projects in Odisha, focusing on techno-commercial and financial aspects. 
  • Assist in project pre-development works, including feasibility studies, site assessments, and technical evaluations for RE projects. 
  • Contribute to project allotment, including support in drafting bidding documents and contracts, managing the bid process, and evaluating submitted DPRs. 
  • Support monitoring and evaluation of progress for projects being implemented under various RE policies/schemes/programmes in Odisha. 
  • Assist in the identification, designing and implementation of pilot RE projects. 
  • Provide advisory support to nodal agencies and conduct research to address urgent queries. 
  • Support the design, implementation, and monitoring of RE schemes. 
  • Develop presentations and communicate findings to senior management and government officials. 
  • Stay updated on clean energy technology, policy, and regulatory developments. 
  • Contribute to outreach efforts, stakeholder engagement, and building partnerships with government, industry, and civil society. 
  • Handle additional duties related to the Clean Energy programme as needed. 

Qualification & Work Experience 

Bachelor’s degree (minimum) in engineering, renewable energy, power management or a related field from a reputable institution. A master’s degree is preferred. 

3 to 4 years of work experience in the RE sector advisory/consulting, with a focus on bid advisory, RE project design, implementation, management and/or techno-commercial advisory.   

Required competencies 

In line with the listed responsibilities the senior programme associate is expected to  have the following competencies: 

  • Deep knowledge of clean energy technologies, demonstrated by experience in project design and implementation, bid management and/or techno-commercial assessments.  
  • Ability to learn quickly about new RE technologies, and develop required techno-commercial expertise.  
  • Through knowledge of RE policies, regulations, programmes, and initiatives at the national and sub-national levels. 
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities, with attention to detail and a proactive approach to project challenges. 
  • Proficient in project management tools and techniques, and technical report writing. 
  • Ability to build connections and engage with a diverse group of people on research and policy issues. 
  • Capacity to develop and lead presentations, and convene discussions. 
  • Confident, collegial, and passionate about clean energy growth in India, as well as in eastern region states.   
  • Ability to manage time and priorities, and ensure the completion of research in keeping with tight policy windows. This is especially crucial as the candidate will be expected to deliver on the immediate/urgent requirements.   
  • Excellent organisation skills to manage multiple assignments. 
  • Willingness to travel as per requirement. 

What we offer 

At iFOREST, we offer an inclusive and amicable work environment. In addition, our institution strongly supports professional development through education, training and capacity building.  

Remuneration 

We offer highly competitive salaries in a think tank space, and reward performance through annual appraisals. The final designation of a successful candidate will be based on qualifications and experience. 

Application instructions & deadline 

We prefer that candidates submit online applications at https://iforest.global/careers/. In case of any difficulties, you may also send your application to contact@iforest.global. 

Applications must include a CV and cover letter. Please ensure that the cover letter is no more than 500 words and clearly describes your suitability for the described position and your motivation to join iFOREST. CVs without a cover letter will not be considered.   

Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. Position open until filled. 

 

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