Associate Field Manager (AFM) – GIS & Data Coordinator in Rwanda

Overview

The Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) is hiring a GIS and Data Coordinator to oversee the effective management, quality assurance, analysis, and display of data gathered through conservation field initiatives across key protected African landscapes. This position operates from Kigali, Rwanda within the Africa Protected Areas Management Unit (APAMU) and reports directly to the Conservation Impact Manager. Collaboration with WCS field, technical teams, and global conservation technology staff is essential.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and maintain a centralized GIS database encompassing African conservation data.
• Prepare, rectify, and merge geospatial data sets to facilitate informed conservation decision-making.
• Create detailed maps and visual geospatial representations for planning and reporting purposes.
• Assist field teams with implementing standardized data collection and processing workflows.
• Deliver training on relevant tools such as ArcGIS Pro, ArcGIS Enterprise, KoboToolbox, SMART, EarthRanger, and Ecoscope.
• Centralize, validate, organize, and ensure quality control of datasets from diverse sources.
• Conduct data analyses ranging from basic to intermediate levels to discover patterns, errors, and actionable insights.
• Perform site visits to verify data integrity and enhance local data management approaches.
• Offer continuous technical support to field teams to improve the completeness and accuracy of data.
• Generate data summaries, graphical maps, and visualizations as required by projects.
• Provide hands-on MEL (Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning) support including capacity building and documentation of standardized data methodologies.
• Facilitate workshops, trainings, and cross-program data reviews to strengthen conservation data practices.

Qualifications and Experience

• Bachelor's degree in Geospatial Analysis, Data Analytics, or a related discipline.
• Minimum 3 years of experience in data coordination, management, or MEL with a technical focus.
• Proficient with GIS software, particularly QGIS and ArcGIS/ESRI platforms.
• Experience using conservation technology tools including KoboToolbox, SMART, and EarthRanger.
• Programming knowledge in Python and/or R is an advantage.
• Competence with data visualization software such as Tableau or Power BI.
• Effective communication skills in English and French; knowledge of Portuguese is a plus.
• Demonstrated ability to independently and collaboratively work across different teams and countries.
• Detail-oriented with strong dedication to ensuring data accuracy.
• Willingness and capability to travel to remote locations and operate in challenging environments.
• Skillful in training and knowledge transfer to enhance team capabilities.

Desirable Attributes

• Effective problem-solving and data troubleshooting skills.
• Commitment to maintaining high consistency and completeness in datasets.
• Adept at teamwork and collaborative efforts.
• Engaged in continuous learning and adopting new MEL/data management approaches.
• Strong aptitude for training others and sharing knowledge.

Compensation and Additional Information

The role offers a competitive salary aligned with the candidate’s experience. Please note a possible discrepancy in the application deadline dates—verify the closing date through official channels before applying.