GIS & Data Coordinator - Wildlife Conservation

Position Overview

The Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) is looking for a GIS & Data Coordinator to oversee the systematic handling, quality control, analysis, and visualization of datasets collected from conservation field programs across significant protected landscapes in Africa. This role is based in Kigali, Rwanda, under the Africa Protected Areas Management Unit (APAMU), reporting to the Conservation Impact Manager. Collaboration with field teams, WCS global conservation technology experts, and APAMU colleagues is essential.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and maintain a centralized GIS database encompassing African conservation data.
• Prepare, clean, and integrate geospatial datasets to aid conservation decision-making efforts.
• Create detailed maps and geospatial visualizations for planning and reporting purposes.
• Support field personnel in standardized data collection and analysis processes.
• Conduct training sessions on tools such as ArcGIS Pro, ArcGIS Enterprise, KoboToolbox, SMART, EarthRanger, Ecoscope, and other related conservation technologies.
• Centralize, validate, organize, and perform quality checks on data aggregated from various sources.
• Perform intermediate data analyses to detect trends, identify errors, and generate insights.
• Visit field sites to verify data quality and strengthen local data management systems.
• Provide technical assistance aimed at enhancing data quality and completeness for field teams.
• Produce data summaries, maps, and visualizations as needed.
• Offer hands-on MEL (Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning) technical support and build capacity among field teams.
• Document methodologies, standards, and guidelines for data management.
• Support workshops, training events, and cross-program data reviews.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Geospatial Analysis, Data Analytics, or related discipline.
• Minimum of three years of relevant experience in data coordination, management, MEL, or related technical domains.
• Proficient GIS skills, especially with QGIS and ESRI's ArcGIS products.
• Familiarity with conservation technology tools.
• Advantageous skills include programming in Python and/or R.
• Experience using data visualization software like Tableau or Power BI.
• Background supporting field data collection and management, particularly with KoboToolbox, SMART, and EarthRanger.
• Excellent communication abilities in both English and French; Portuguese language skills are a plus.
• Capability to work autonomously as well as collaboratively across multiple teams and countries.
• Meticulous attention to detail with a dedication to maintaining data accuracy.
• Readiness and ability to travel to remote field locations and work under challenging environmental conditions.
• Willingness to train and transfer technical knowledge to field teams.

Desirable Attributes

• Strong problem-solving skills and ability to troubleshoot data issues.
• High standards for accuracy, consistency, and completeness.
• Effective teamwork and collaborative approach.
• Commitment to continuous learning and keeping up to date with emerging MEL and data management best practices.
• Proven skills in training and knowledge sharing.

Compensation

The position offers a competitive salary that is commensurate with the candidate's experience.

Important Application Note

There is an inconsistency regarding application deadlines: although the role is listed for 2026, an application deadline stated as 28 August 2025 appears outdated and likely incorrect. Applicants should verify the current deadline through official channels before applying.