Senior Energy Researcher (6 Month Contract)

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.

Requirements

Key Responsibilities

1. Research Development and Delivery
2. Knowledge Management and Dissemination
3. Support for Strategic Decision-Making
4. Collaboration with Internal Teams

• 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.
• 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.
• Organize workshops, seminars, and briefings to share knowledge and insights across the organisation.
• 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.
• 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 optimizing 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 & Organizing
• Monitoring & Measuring

Cognitive Capabilities:

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

Interpersonal Capabilities:

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