Position Description: The GIS Specialist leads the surveying, mapping, digitization, and integration of data in GIS and responsible for creating and maintaining GIS databases and supports data collection, data management, and reporting

The position will report to the Project Manager and technical leadership, and will coordinate closely with modeling, data science, and system development teams.

Minimum Qualifications:

Education:                 

•        Master’s degree in Geography, Geomatics, Computer Science, Information Communication and Technology, Environmental Science or related fields.

Knowledge Skills and Abilities:

•        Excellent knowledge of Python programming and utility software for scientific data management

•        Strong knowledge of development in Linux and Windows operating system environments

•        Extensive knowledge of scientific data processing and management, especially NetCDF, GRIB, and other data formats

•        Advanced knowledge of statistical analysis and data analytics environment

•        Excellent analytical skills and problem-solving ability

•        English proficiency in communication, presentation, and report writing.

Experience:

•        At least 5 years of experience in Python programming, statistical analysis, and various scientific data visualization platforms.

•        Adequate experience in various Linux/Unix distribution platforms.

Personal Qualities     

•        Strategic thinker with strong analytical and solution-oriented capabilities in applied climate science.

•        Self-driven and capable of working independently while maintaining accountability and initiative.

•        Effective collaborator with the ability to work in multicultural, interdisciplinary teams and manage cross-sectoral engagement.

•        Detail-oriented and results-focused, with adaptability in dynamic and evolving operational environments.

•        Professional, respectful, and proactive in both independent and team-based work settings.

Major Duties and Responsibilities

• Lead Field Survey Design and Execution

•        Plan and implement field surveys applying modern methodologies, tools, and technologies.

•        Execute topographic, hydrographic, exposure, and control surveys utilizing GPS/GNSS, total stations, drones, sonar, and other appropriate instruments.

•        Process and validate raw survey data, ensuring high standards of quality control and data integrity.

•        Provide expert input on survey data interpretation and its application in planning, design, and decision-making processes.

•        Conduct hands-on training sessions for internal and partner institutions on cost-effective survey techniques and data processing workflows.

• Develop and Operationalize GIS and Remote Sensing Solutions

•        Collaborate with project teams to design and implement GIS-based solutions supporting spatial analysis and decision-making.

•        Manage spatial databases and geospatial platforms, maintaining data accuracy, consistency, and accessibility.

•        Integrate and analyze remote sensing data (e.g., satellite imagery, UAV/drone data, LiDAR) for project-specific applications.

•        Perform spatial analysis to derive insights, identify risks, and support forecasting and scenario modelling.

•        Develop GIS-based models to assess exposure, suitability, and hazard vulnerability.

•        Create maps, dashboards, and visualization materials to communicate analytical findings to technical and non-technical audiences.

•        Compile technical documentation and stay abreast of emerging tools and practices in GIS, remote sensing, and surveying.

•        Design and deliver training modules on GIS/RS workflows, including digitization, spatial analysis, and visualization techniques.

• Support Programmatic and Project Implementation

·         Assess institutional capacities, identify technical gaps, and recommend GIS/RS-related interventions aligned with project objectives.

·         Coordinate with project stakeholders, technical experts, and implementing partners to ensure timely and coherent activity delivery.

·         Document capacity-building initiatives, including pre/post assessments and recommendations for future technical assistance.

·         Contribute to the development of technical and financial proposals, concept notes, and knowledge products focused on GIS, early warning, climate adaptation, and disaster resilience.

• Contribute to Platform and Tool Development for DRRM and CCA

·         Support the design, refinement, and population of spatial databases and decision-support tools (e.g., SESAME, DRR DSS, IBF DSS) that aid in disaster risk reduction, early warning systems, and climate change adaptation.

•        Other Duties

·         Undertake any additional tasks relevant to the successful implementation and documentation of project activities, as may be reasonably assigned by the Climate Risk Management Specialist or relevant project supervisors.