Associate Professional – Energy Transition Finance and Policy

Vacancy Announcement

Secretariat of the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA)

Knowledge, Policy and Finance Centre (KPFC)

Publication/Transmission Date: 27 October 2026

Deadline for Application: 26 November 2026 (at midnight, Abu Dhabi local Time)

Title and Grade: Associate Professional – Energy Transition Finance and Policy

Indicative Annual Salary: USD 36,000 to 54,000 and other benefits [1]

Duration of Appointment: One year, with possible extension

Duty Station: Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates

Expected Date for Entry on Duty: As soon as possible

Background

The International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) is an inter-governmental organisation headquartered in Abu Dhabi, mandated to promote the widespread and increased adoption and sustainable use of all forms of renewable energy in the pursuit of sustainable development, energy access, energy security and low-carbon economic growth and prosperity. IRENA’s mission is to play a leading role in the ongoing transformation of the global energy systems as a centre of excellence for knowledge and innovation, a global voice of renewable energy, a network hub for all stakeholders and a source of advice and support for countries. At present, IRENA has 173 Members (172 States and the European Union) that acceded to its Statute.

Within this mandate, the focus of the Knowledge, Policy and Finance Centre (KPFC) is on collecting data, developing knowledge platforms and conducting analysis to support investment and growth in renewables including the creation of enabling environments for private investments. This entails analytical work on policy and finance, developing renewable energy statistics, giving input to advisory services that the Agency provides to its member states and at regional levels, and targeted engagement with the private sector and civil society.

The purpose of the Associate Professional Programme is to enable junior talented and promising university graduates and postgraduates to gain first-hand experience in the work of IRENA and a deeper insight into the role of the Agency in promoting the widespread and increased adoption and sustainable use of all forms of renewable energy. The programme offers valuable exposure to IRENA’s main activities and programmatic areas. The Agency will also benefit from gaining new and motivated members of staff, bringing new skills and perspectives.

Duties and Responsibilities

The post will be based in Abu Dhabi, in the Renewable Energy Markets Unit of KPFC. Under the supervision of the Team Lead, Renewable Energy Policy and Finance, the Associate Professional will:

- Support the unit in collecting information and analysing data on various aspects of energy transition finance covering renewables and other relevant technologies and infrastructure, including financing instruments and structures, financing trends across countries and regions and supply chain investments.

- Contribute data and analysis on energy transition finance for IRENA flagship publications such as the World Energy Transitions Outlook, Tracking the UAE consensus and SDG7 tracking;

- Assist in the organisation and execution of technical meetings, workshops, conferences and capacity building session, including major events like the IRENA General Assembly and Council meetings;

- Help prepare inputs for presentations and speeches by senior management;

- Help support other projects and workstreams in the division as required.

Competencies

Professionalism: Shows pride in work and in achievements; demonstrates professional competence and mastery of subject matter; is conscientious and efficient in meeting commitments, observing deadlines and achieving results; is motivated by professional rather than personal concerns; shows persistence when faced with difficult problems or challenges; remains calm in stressful situations.

Communication: Ability to communicate effectively with various types of individuals and institutions. Speaks and writes clearly and effectively; listens to others, correctly interprets messages from others and responds appropriately; asks questions to clarify, and exhibits interest in having two-way communication; tailors language, tone, style and format to match audience; demonstrates openness in sharing information and keeping people informed.

Teamwork: Works collaboratively with colleagues to achieve organizational goals; solicits input by genuinely valuing others’ ideas and expertise; is willing to learn from others; places team agenda before personal agenda; supports and acts in accordance with final group decision, even when such decisions may not entirely reflect own position; shares credit for team accomplishments and accepts joint responsibility for team shortcomings.

Accountability: Takes ownership of all responsibilities and honours commitments; delivers outputs for which one has responsibility within prescribed time, cost and quality standards; operates in compliance with organizational regulations and rules; supports subordinates, provides oversight and takes responsibility for delegated assignments; takes personal responsibility for his/her own shortcomings and those of the work unit, where applicable.

Eligibility

Applicants should be no more than 32 years of age at the time of submitting their applications.

Qualification

Education : A first-level university degree with at least two years of relevant work experience acquired after completion of the required degree, or advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in sustainable finance, climate finance, renewable energy policy, environmental economics, or other fields relevant to the job description.

Experience/Skills: Sound knowledge of key issues related to energy transition finance and renewables, ideally with some experience in financing transactions, financial modeling or the development of financial instruments. Experience in research, data collection and analysis are also required.

Language : Excellent command of English is required. Knowledge of another official United Nations language is an asset.

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Qualified candidates must apply for the above-mentioned vacancy on-line, through IRENA’s recruitment platform, ORC by submitting a complete and comprehensive CV and a letter of interest, including details of two professional references who might be contacted if their application is shortlisted.

Applications from qualified women, especially from nationals of developing countries, are highly encouraged.

Please note that only candidates under serious consideration will be contacted for an interview and will receive notice of the outcome of the selection process.

[1] Amount of monthly lump-sum depends on qualifications and years of relevant work experience. In addition: a monthly accommodation allowance (USD 1,600); relocation grant upon arrival/separation if relocation involved (USD 1,200); installation grant if relocation involved (USD 1,300); health insurance; other entitlements as applicable.