GIS & Data Coordinator

About the Role

The Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) invites applications for a GIS & Data Coordinator to oversee the organized management, quality control, analysis, and mapping of datasets gathered from conservation field projects throughout key protected areas and landscapes in Africa. This role is situated in Kigali, Rwanda, within the Africa Protected Areas Management Unit (APAMU), and reports to the Conservation Impact Manager. Close collaboration with WCS field and site technical personnel, WCS Global Conservation Technology team, and APAMU colleagues is expected.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and manage a centralized GIS database covering African conservation areas.
• Prepare, correct, and consolidate geospatial datasets to underpin conservation planning and decisions.
• Create detailed maps and geospatial visualizations to support reporting and strategic initiatives.
• Assist field teams in standardizing data collection and analytical processes.
• Offer training on various conservation technology tools, including ArcGIS Pro, ArcGIS Enterprise, KoboToolbox, SMART, EarthRanger, and Ecoscope.
• Centralize, validate, arrange, and conduct quality assurance on diverse data inputs.
• Perform basic to intermediate data analyses to detect trends, errors, or insights.
• Conduct on-site visits to verify data integrity and strengthen local data management frameworks.
• Support field teams with technical guidance to enhance data quality and completeness.
• Generate data summaries, maps, and other visual outputs as needed.
• Deliver hands-on technical assistance and capacity-building in MEL (Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning) functions.
• Document methodologies, standards, and data handling procedures.
• Facilitate workshops, training sessions, and inter-programme data evaluations.

Candidate Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Geospatial Analysis, Data Analytics, or a related discipline.
• Minimum 3 years' experience in data coordination, data management, MEL, or pertinent technical roles.
• Proficient in GIS platforms, especially QGIS and ArcGIS/ESRI tools.
• Familiarity with conservation technology solutions.
• Programming knowledge in Python and/or R is a plus.
• Experience in data visualization using tools like Tableau or Power BI.
• Background supporting field data collection and management with KoboToolbox, SMART, and EarthRanger.
• Excellent written and spoken communication skills in English and French; Portuguese language skills are beneficial.
• Ability to work independently while collaborating across multiple teams and countries.
• Attention to detail and strong commitment to maintaining data accuracy.
• Willingness and capability to travel to remote locations and operate under challenging field conditions.
• Skilled in providing training and technical knowledge transfer to field teams.

Desired Competencies

• Strong problem-solving and troubleshooting abilities related to data issues.
• High focus on accuracy, consistency, and data completeness.
• Effective teamwork and collaborative mindset.
• Eagerness for continuous learning about emerging MEL and data management techniques.
• Exceptional training and knowledge sharing proficiency.

Salary & Other Information

Competitive remuneration will be offered in line with experience.

Application Deadline Notice

There is an inconsistency noted regarding the application deadline: one date is cited as 14 August 2026, but a deadline of 28 August 2025, which is in the past, is also mentioned. This earlier date is likely erroneous. Applicants should verify the current deadline from official sources before applying.