Technical Advisor: Energy Sector South Africa

Technical Advisor: Energy Sector South Africa - Secondment to Department of Electricity and Energy (DEE) Energy Sector South Africa - Contract until 30 April 2028

Support South Africa's energy transition by joining GIZ South Africa as Technical Advisor: Energy Sector South Africa, seconded to the Department of Electricity and Energy, reporting to the Component Lead H2.SA II, based in Hatfield Pretoria on a fixed-term contract running until 30 April 2028.

Project Background

GIZ South Africa's Energy Cluster operates at the heart of South Africa's energy transition, working in close partnership with the Department of Electricity and Energy to build a reliable, affordable and sustainable energy system with lasting economic and social impact.

Through high-impact programmes spanning green hydrogen, Power-to-X, critical raw materials, renewable energy systems and energy efficiency in public infrastructure, GIZ supports policy reform, institutional strengthening and stakeholder coordination to unlock industrial decarbonisation, competitiveness and new green industries.

This work contributes directly to South Africa's Just Energy Transition by addressing electricity supply challenges while advancing inclusive participation and local economic development. Within this context, the Technical Advisor plays a hands on role in turning strategy into delivery through coordination, implementation support and close collaboration with national energy stakeholders.

What We Need From You Qualifications

• Master's Degree or equivalent in Economics, Law, Political Sciences, Public Administration, Engineering, Energy Studies or a related field

Professional Experience and Competencies

• Minimum of 5 years relevant professional experience in renewable energy, hydrogen or Power-to-X, energy markets, energy policy, energy project development or related fields
• Proven experience in project and process management within complex or multi-project environments
• Experience working with or within public institutions or regulatory authorities with a strong understanding of government coordination processes
• Ability to engage confidently with senior government officials and diverse stakeholders
• Understanding of global decarbonisation agendas and South Africa's energy transition context
• Knowledge of contracting procedures and institutional cooperation arrangements
• Familiarity with the South African energy sector and related policies with established networks considered an advantage
• Experience in preparing concise analytical briefings and reports
• Strong organisational and coordination skills with the ability to work independently and collaboratively
• High level of professionalism and discretion in handling sensitive information
• Proficiency in standard computer applications
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English
• Experience in international cooperation or donor-funded programmes considered an advantage

What You Will Be Doing

• Support the implementation of GIZ Energy Cluster projects in close coordination with the Department of Electricity and Energy
• Support the Energy Programmes and Projects Branch and the Deputy Director-General with coordination, preparation and follow up of activities
• Contribute to operational planning, project management and monitoring including oversight of service providers, implementing partners and agreed indicators
• Support contract and cooperation management ensuring quality delivery and compliance with GIZ procedures
• Strengthen coordination and coherence across Energy Cluster projects implemented with the Department of Electricity and Energy
• Prepare briefings, presentations, reports, concepts and terms of reference to support decision making
• Provide analytical inputs on energy related topics to key government institutions
• Support governance, reporting and internal coordination mechanisms
• Plan and support stakeholder engagements including meetings, workshops and coordination platforms

The role works in close coordination with the Deputy Director-General for Energy Programmes and Projects at the Department of Electricity and Energy and reports to the relevant GIZ Programme Director or Component Lead.

Additional Information

• The role is based at GIZ's offices in Hatfield Pretoria with agreed working days embedded at the Department of Electricity and Energy, offering a unique opportunity to work at the intersection of policy, implementation and national impact. The position requires a willingness to undertake domestic and international travel as part of meaningful engagement across programmes and stakeholders. Applicants must hold a valid South African work permit and be eligible for international travel. GIZ is committed to fostering a working environment grounded in diversity, respect and equal opportunity and warmly encourages applications from people with disabilities.

Application Process

Applicants must submit:

• A Motivation Letter in PDF format with a maximum length of 1 page outlining suitability and value contribution - Application for Technical Advisor: Energy Sector South Africa - Secondment to the Department of Electricity and Energy
• A detailed CV in PDF format with a maximum length of 4 pages indicating nationality
• Proof of eligibility to work in South Africa

Applications close on 27 February 2025. Only shortlisted candidates who meet the stated requirements will be contacted.