Associate Professional – Energy Transition Finance and Policy

Job description
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 UAE 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 organisational 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 organisational regulations and rules; supp