Description

Currently blueEnergy is seeking a mature, culturally sensitive, pro-active individual with strong motivation to work in the energy program team in Bluefields, Nicaragua. As blueEnergy's Nicaragua Renewable Energy Technician Volunteer, you will work within the renewable energy team under the renewable energy program coordinator.

The Renewable Energy Technician Volunteer will contribute to the research and development of renewable energy technologies, document energy related research and activities, help train local technicians and support the execution of energy related project activities, as well as collaborate in the development of new project profiles and their corresponding budgets.

Candidates must have exceptional teamwork and emotional intelligence, and be able to thrive in a dynamic, entrepreneurial environment.

Responsibilities:
- Hands on work to build and implement the appropriate technologies the energy team of blueEnergy is developing (system conception, purchasing, logistics, preparation, construction and installation of renewable energy systems, repair and maintenance of some of these systems), following the guidelines, processes, formats and policies established by blueEnergy
- Execute community trainings on the different appropriate energy related technologies blueEnergy implements in coordination with the social team.
- Contribute to the research and development of new appropriate technologies for the energy program of blueEnergy (researching best adapted technologies for our beneficiaries and their socio-economic context, conducting diversified studies, building and studying prototypes)
- Work with the renewable energy program coordinator to improve the technologies already in use as well as their implementation
- Document the work of the renewable energy team in blueEnergy with reports and other media using blueEnergy templates
- Strengthen the capacity of the renewable energy team through the creation of internal manuals and databases
- Participate in the creation of project profiles and budgets to be submitted to potential funders
- Work with local staff and partners to train them in renewable energy and energy efficiency
- Communicate with energy partners (universities and other organizations) to share experiences and learn about alternative technologies and techniques

blueEnergy is an international nonprofit organization that works to break the cycle of poverty to create a world of sustainable living and opportunity for all. The organization does this by creating opportunities for sustainable development in severely marginalized communities and by developing leaders working internationally for a more equitable, sustainable world.

blueEnergys project headquarters are located in Bluefields, Nicaragua. There, the organization recruits a diverse, multi-cultural team of international volunteers and local and international staff. This unique organizational structure amplifies blueEnergys impact and provides the volunteers themselves with a transformative experience to help them reach their global leadership potential.

Qualifications

- Good teaching skills and high level of social sensitivity
- Knowledge of renewable energy and energy efficiency
- Comfortable with using hand tools
- Self-starter, adaptable, resilient and a sense of humor
- Respect for local customs with an open mind and humility
- Intermediate Spanish language (written and spoken) required; fluent Spanish preferred
- Capacity to adapt communication with the interlocutor (willingness to speak Kriol English to Kriol English speaking beneficiaries, adapting technical language to improve understanding of the interlocutor)
- Demonstrated ability to build and manage effective work relationships in a multi-cultural environment.
- Pro-active and able to work independently to complete project tasks
- Attention to detail and ability to follow through on task assignments
- Experience working with renewable energy projects is a plus
- Experience working in multicultural teams where teamwork is necessary
- Engineering diploma preferred, especially in mechanics, electricity and/or energy (or corresponding professional experience), but others will also be considered.
- A 12 month commitment

Intern Types

Languages

• English
• Spanish

Cost in US$:

USD 4600/ year

Cost Includes:

• Food
• Housing
• In-country orientation/Training
• In-country staff support
• Language instruction
• Registration fees
• Written materials abroad
• Written materials pre-departure

Program Fees Include:

Volunteers are asked to cover their expenses so that blueEnergy can focus its limited resources on its permanent staff and infrastructure to ensure the long-term sustainability of its impact on its beneficiaries. For more information on why fees are charged, please visit here.

Volunteer fees are USD 4,600 for a year.

This fee covers room, board, orientation, internet, laundry, supervision and project-based travel. International and domestic airfare is not covered in this fee and is the responsibility of the volunteer. International emergency medical and evacuation coverage is required and is the financial responsibility of all volunteers.

In rare cases, partial scholarships are made available based on experience and need. These opportunities are rare and should only be requested if you feel you exceed the qualifications listed above and the fees represent an undue burden on you.

Credit Available

yes

Experience Required

no

Volunteer Types

Age Range

18 and over

This Program is open to

Worldwide Participants. This Program is also open to Couples and Individuals.

Typical Living Arrangements

• Group living

Participants Travel

Independently

Typically Participants Work

in Groups of 3-4

Application Process Involves

• Phone/Video Interview
• Resume
• Written Application

Typically The Application Process Time is

2 weeks

Post Services Include

• Alumni Network

Blue Energy's Mission Statement

blueEnergy improves lives in marginalized communities using a holistic approach to sustainable energy and related fundamental services. blueEnergy develops wind and solar energy solutions, solar lighting solutions, communications solutions and provides local capacity building support to communities on the Caribbean Coast of Nicaragua. blueEnergy functions in challenging environments and succeeds because of our connection with the community, commitment to building local capacity, and with the hard work of our international volunteers.

Year Founded

2003