Technology and Innovation Specialist - Nigeria

Tetra Tech is Leading with Science® to implement clean energy projects and policies that advance global climate and decarbonization goals. We advise on national energy transition initiatives and structure finance to deploy clean energy solutions. We help create sustainable utilities and modern power grids. We promote equality and inclusivity in the global energy sector. We improve lives and livelihoods in the biggest cities and smallest villages, and at the intersection of energy-health and energy-water-food.

Project Summary

Tetra Tech is implementing the five-year, USAID-funded Power Africa Empower Nigeria Activity. Building on a decade of Power Africa success, Empower Nigeria aims to reduce energy poverty by expanding access to affordable and reliable electricity in Nigeria.  Power Africa Empower Nigeria will focus on increasing electricity generation capacity, improving access to on- and off-grid electricity, and supporting Nigeria's national and state-level energy planning through four key strategic outcomes: addressing policy and regulatory challenges, enhancing transmission capacity, scaling the off-grid sector, and resolving liquidity issues within the electricity sector.   

Position Summary

Tetra Tech is recruiting a Technology and Innovation Specialist to join the Empower Nigeria team. The position will focus on identifying, developing, and implementing innovative technologies and solutions that enhance the access, efficiency, reliability, and sustainability of the electricity sector in Nigeria. The candidate must possess a strong background in technology assessment, project management, and the ability to translate innovative concepts into practical applications in the energy sector. The Technology and Innovation Specialist will report to the Senior Technical Advisor and work closely with other cross- functional teams to support initiatives that enhance electricity access and services in on-grid and off- grid supply areas.

Position Responsibilities

• Conduct research and analysis of emerging technologies relevant to electricity distribution and off-grid energy access, including smart grids, IoT, renewable energy integration, and energy storage systems.
• Evaluate the feasibility and potential impact of new technologies on current operations and customer services of the partner DISCOs and off-grid supply systems.
• Collaborate with DISCO leadership and rural electrification agencies to develop and implement an innovation strategy that aligns with organizational goals and responds to industry trends.
• Identify opportunities for process improvements and technological advancements to enhance service delivery and operational efficiency.
• Lead and manage technology projects from conception through implementation, ensuring that projects are completed on time, within scope, and on budget.
• Coordinate cross-functional teams and stakeholders, facilitating collaboration and communication throughout the project lifecycle.
• Design and conduct pilot programs to test new technologies and processes in real-world scenarios.
• Analyze results and provide recommendations based on pilot outcomes, including scalability and integration into existing systems.
• Collaborate with outcome leads, internal teams, external partners, and industry leaders to foster a culture of innovation and share best practices.
• Represent Empower Nigeria in industry forums, conferences, and workshops, staying abreast of technological advancements and regulatory changes.
• Ensure that all technological innovations and applications comply with Nigeria energy sector regulations and standards.
• Work closely with compliance and legal teams to navigate regulatory challenges related to technology deployment.
• Develop training programs to equip DISCO staff and power sector professionals with the skills and knowledge needed to adopt new technologies and processes.
• Establish metrics to evaluate the success of technology initiatives and track progress over time.
• Prepare and present reports to senior management on technology projects, innovation trends, and future opportunities.
• Facilitate workshops, coaching sessions, and training programs to foster a culture of adaptability.
• Develop policies, procedures, and guidelines.
• Contribute to a series of reporting including weekly, monthly, quarterly and annual reports as well as monitoring and evaluation tools.
• Share insights and lessons learned with the team to foster continuous improvement.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.