Senior Development Engineer
Job description
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 analyse 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 optimising 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.