Senior Development Engineer, Sub-Saharan Africa
About the job Location: Nairobi, Kenya, or Berlin, Germany We’re seeking a Senior Development Engineer to lead customer project assessments and support our sales team in developing renewable energy solutions for commercial and industrial (C&I) clients in Sub-Saharan Africa. What You’ll Do: Assess, design, and develop optimal renewable energy solutions for C&I customers. Lead technical project development, including audits, proposals, and designs. Collaborate with internal teams and guide local sales and project engineers. Establish and maintain techno-commercial standards and processes. What We’re Looking For: Strong technical background in renewable energy, with hands-on solar C&I project experience. Proven ability to solve complex technical challenges and engage customers effectively. Solid commercial expertise, analytical skills, and attention to detail. Deep understanding of market challenges and a customer-centric approach. Your mission Project Assessment & Audit : Collect and analyze data (e.g., site visits, measurements, utility bills, audits) to evaluate the feasibility of PV, storage, or hybrid systems, ensuring efficient techno-commercial assessments as lead expert. Design & Simulation : Develop optimal system designs based on audit results, run technical and economic simulations, and guide the proposal process with local teams. Proposal Development : Collaborate with sales and engineering teams to create custom proposals, including solar graphs, savings analyses, and technical annexes, while optimizing formats and content. Standards & Tools : Maintain and improve technical standards and processes for high-quality proposals, driving innovation and efficiency across the sales workflow. Market Insights : Monitor market trends, regulations, grid pricing, and competitors, providing strategic insights to the team. Relationship Management : Support sales teams in building strong partnerships, serving as a trusted technical advisor throughout the sales cycle. Innovation & Strategy : Contribute to strategic projects such as technology expansion and market development. Join us to play a critical role in shaping sustainable energy solutions and driving impactful projects. Your profile Background: Minimum bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering, Renewable Energy, or related fields; advanced certifications are a plus. 5–7 years of hands-on experience in solar PV projects (preferably C&I); 10+ years in industrial/technology sectors. Technical sales experience with a strong commercial focus and customer orientation. Regional market knowledge and ability to travel regularly. Skills: Fluent English. French is an advantage. Strong communication, presentation, and organizational skills. Proactive, ethical, and able to work independently and remotely. Effective collaboration with international teams and ability to manage tight deadlines. Expertise/Experience: Proficient in PV simulation tools (e.g., PVSyst, PVSol) and financial modelling. In-depth knowledge of PV systems, energy storage, and solar C&I project financing. Experience in creating and understanding electrical drawings/single line diagrams. Skilled in delivering customer presentations and technical training. Expertise in system components and industry best practices. Why us? Flexible role in a growing team. International professional growth opportunities. Multi-cultural work environment. Other information Role location: Nairobi, Kenya, or Berlin, Germany. Candidate must have a work permit for the relevant role location. Employment type: Permanent, full-time. Application deadline: 31st December 2024. Desired start: 1st February 2025. About us What We Do GRIPS Energy finances, implements, and manages customized renewable energy systems for businesses in the commercial and industrial sectors in Africa. As a renewable energy investor, we eliminate up-front costs and technical risks for our customers. Our Mission Deliver tailored energy solutions that empower African businesses to thrive sustainably and profitably. Our Vision A future where sustainable energy powers the growth and prosperity of every African business and beyond.