Under its Oil and Gas Programme, AFREC is implementing the Methane Emissions Management and Capacity Building in the African Oil and Gas Sector Project . The Commission is recruiting a Methane Project Assistant to support this work.
Job Summary
- Employer: African Energy Commission (AFREC), African Union
- Job Type: Contract
- Location: Harare, Zimbabwe
- Category: Energy
- Salary: USD 4,000 inclusive of insurance and all costs
- Closing Date: 2026-10-05
Key Responsibilities
- Assist with implementation of AFREC’s overall Oil and Gas Programme.
- Support the technical evaluation and selection of service providers for the methane mitigation project.
- Coordinate with African Union Member States to support implementation of the methane project in accordance with agreed terms and conditions.
- Participate in researching, preparing, reviewing and disseminating policy briefs relating to oil and gas methane mitigation.
- Provide analysis and information on project implementation to internal and external stakeholders.
- Support the organisation of workshops, conferences, meetings and seminars.
- Draft concept notes, speeches and meeting reports.
- Assist in preparing reports, budgets and work programmes.
- Support preparation of contracts, agreements and procurement documentation.
- Provide information and documentation required for internal and external audits.
- Coordinate with AU Member States and Regional Economic Communities (RECs) and contribute to reviews of continental oil and gas policies.
- Undertake other relevant duties assigned by the Division of Policy Strategy and Support in support of AFREC’s strategic programmes.
Requirements
- A university Master’s degree in Oil and Gas Management, Petroleum Engineering, Petroleum Geoscience, Energy Management, Environmental Management, or another related science or engineering field, together with at least four years of relevant professional experience .
- A university Bachelor’s degree in Oil and Gas Management, Petroleum Engineering, Petroleum Geoscience, Energy Management, Environmental Management, or another related science or engineering field, together with at least six years of relevant professional experience .
- Good knowledge of Africa’s energy sector.
- Excellent interpersonal skills.
- Ability to work effectively in a multicultural environment.
- Competence in standard office software, including Microsoft Word, Excel and PowerPoint.
- Proficiency in at least one AU official working language: English, French, Portuguese, Spanish or Arabic .
- Applicants must be nationals of an African Union Member State .
Salary
USD 4,000 inclusive of insurance and all costs
How to Apply
REF Code: AFREC/PRO/06.26
About the Company
The African Energy Commission (AFREC) is a specialised agency of the African Union headquartered in Algiers, Algeria, with operational reach across member states including Zimbabwe. In Zimbabwe, AFREC engages with national energy stakeholders to support policy harmonisation, data collection, and capacity building within the Southern African Power Pool framework. The commission works with Zimbabwe's Ministry of Energy and Power Development and the Zimbabwe Energy Regulatory Authority to advance renewable energy integration and regional electricity trade. AFREC's activities in Zimbabwe align with its continental mandate to develop the African Energy Information System and promote sustainable energy access. The organisation coordinates with Harare-based institutions to implement the African Union's Agenda 2063 energy targets, including universal electrification and clean cooking solutions.
Coordinating Africa's energy development for sustainable growth.
Frequently Asked Questions
What qualifications or certifications do I need to become a Methane Project Assistant in Zimbabwe?
Most employers require a degree in environmental science, engineering, geology, or a related energy field. A diploma with substantial experience may suffice for some contract roles. Certifications in project management, HSE, or renewable energy are advantageous but not always mandatory.
What are the typical day-to-day responsibilities of a Methane Project Assistant?
You will likely assist with data collection, field monitoring, stakeholder coordination, and report preparation for methane capture or reduction projects. Expect to work with government ministries, local communities, and technical teams on project implementation. Site visits to rural or mining areas are common, requiring flexibility and travel readiness.
How does local work culture in Zimbabwe affect this role?
Zimbabwean workplaces value respect for hierarchy, formal communication, and relationship-building before task execution. Punctuality is expected, though bureaucratic processes can slow decision-making. Demonstrating patience, adaptability, and strong networking skills will serve you well in this environment.
What career progression opportunities exist for Methane Project Assistants in Zimbabwe?
With experience, you can advance to Project Coordinator, Energy Analyst, or Climate Change Specialist roles within government, NGOs, or regional bodies like AFREC. Specializing in carbon credit verification or clean energy finance opens additional pathways. Many professionals transition to consultancy or pursue postgraduate studies to accelerate growth.
What benefits are typically included in contract positions with organizations like AFREC or similar employers?
Contract roles often include medical aid, limited annual leave, and sometimes housing or transport allowances, though this varies significantly by employer. Pension contributions are less common for short-term contracts. Always clarify benefit terms in writing before accepting an offer, as practices differ between international organizations and local firms.
How should I apply for a Methane Project Assistant position, and what do Zimbabwean employers prioritize?
Submit a tailored CV highlighting relevant technical skills, field experience, and knowledge of Zimbabwe's energy sector through official portals or specified email addresses. Employers prioritize demonstrated experience over qualifications alone, so include specific project outcomes and references. A concise cover letter showing understanding of methane issues in the SADC region strengthens your application.
