Senior Technical Manager

Job description

MPower Ventures is a pan-African, venture-backed start-up leading the change in clean energy innovation. We are transforming the renewable energy landscape by deploying cutting-edge solar solutions that empower households and businesses across Africa. As we expand, we are seeking a dynamic, entrepreneurial Senior Technical Manager to join our team in Zambia and elevate our technical capabilities.

Job title: Senior Technical Manager

Reporting line: reports directly to the Country Director and oversees the activities of the entire technical Team

Location: Lusaka, Zambia

In this pivotal role, you will lead and oversee the full spectrum of our solar projects—from initial feasibility studies through to detailed system design, installation support, and post-commissioning client engagement. You will harness your technical expertise to lead the technical team and drive the development of robust, efficient solar energy systems tailored to diverse customer needs, ensuring compliance with industry standards and a high level of system performance. Your leadership will not only guide project execution, but also set the stage for continuous improvement and innovation within our technical processes.

Key Responsibilities

1. Project Development & Feasibility
Site Assessments: Conduct site visits to evaluate roof and ground conditions, determine shading impacts, and assess structural integrity.
Energy Audits: Analyze client energy consumption patterns to determine system viability.
Preliminary System Design: Develop conceptual layouts, perform sizing calculations, and propose system configurations (on-grid, hybrid, off-grid).

2. System Design & Engineering
Detailed System Design: Use advanced software tools (PVsyst, Helioscope, AutoCAD, SketchUp) to create comprehensive electrical and mechanical designs.
Component Selection: Recommend critical components such as inverters, modules, racking systems, and batteries (for hybrid setups).
Single-Line Diagrams (SLDs): Produce electrical schematics ensuring full compliance with industry codes (NEC, IEC, etc.).

3. Technical Documentation
Proposals & BOQs: Develop technical sections for client proposals and bids, including detailed Bills of Quantities.
Technical Reports: Prepare reports on energy yield analysis and provide optional financial modeling inputs.
Tender Submissions: Contribute to RFPs by preparing specifications, compliance matrices, and detailed drawings.

4. Installation & Commissioning Support
Oversee subcontractor work, ensuring quality standards and adherence to project timelines.
Develop protocols and verify system performance against design expectations.
Ensure that all installations meet local standards and safety regulations.

5. Project Management Support
Develop technical project timelines and coordinate closely with procurement and logistics teams.
Assist with cost estimation, budgeting, and value engineering initiatives.
Act as a bridge between the technical team and other departments (sales, procurement, site teams).

6. Client & Stakeholder Engagement
Attend meetings with potential clients to address technical queries and provide expert advice.
Conduct training sessions for facility managers and deliver comprehensive manuals and maintenance guides.

7. Process & Standards Development
Develop and implement standard design templates and quality checklists.
Recommend and implement design and performance monitoring tools.
Apply learnings from ongoing projects to enhance processes and scaling strategies.

8. Lead, mentor, and motivate the technical team to meet set goals.

Directly supervise your technical team ensuring their daily activities are well planned and that projects are delivered to a high standard level to ensure clients satisfaction.
Collaborate with the Country Director to define priorities, maintain open communication with the Global Management Team.

Who we are looking for:

Skill set

Proven track record and strong background in solar engineering and renewable energy systems.Proficient in industry-standard design software such as PVsyst, Helioscope, AutoCAD, and SketchUp.
Highly analytical with the ability to perform energy audits and yield analyses.
Experienced in managing complex, multi-phase projects in a fast-paced startup environment.
Excellent communication skills to effectively liaise with technical teams, clients, and stakeholders.
Proven ability to lead cross-functional teams, coordinating efforts with sales, procurement, and installation teams.

Experience in C&I solar (capacity: 100kW and more) is mandatory.

Qualification and experience

Master of Engineering in Renewable/Solar/Electrical Energy Engineering, or a closely related field is required + a minimum of 5 year experience in a similar role.
A valid driver’s license is mandatory to facilitate site visits and regional project oversight.
Active membership in relevant professional bodies (e.g., Zambia Solar Energy Society or Engineering Institution of Zambia (EIZ) will be considered an asset.
Professional certifications in solar or renewable energy engineering are highly desirable.

Application Process

Are you ready to make a significant impact on the future of clean energy in Zambia and drive our innovative projects forward? We invite you to apply.

Prepare an updated version of your CV and cover letter in a single file as well as a copy of your highest qualification degree (all in PDF format) and fill out the application form here.

The position remains open until filled.