GIS and Data Visualization Specialist

Volunteering

Overview

Support geospatial data management and visualization for UNDP projects in Sudan.

You have:

• Proven experience in spatial data analysis, map production, and the use of GIS software such as ArcGIS, QGIS, and Web GIS platforms.
• Demonstrated ability to manage and visualize complex datasets using tools like Microsoft Excel, Access, and Power BI.
• Hands-on experience with geographic databases, satellite imagery, and development of Story Maps and dashboards for reporting.
• Strong programming and data processing skills, including use of Python, SQL, R, or JavaScript libraries for geospatial data.
• Experience developing web-based interactive maps and visual products.
• Familiarity with M&E systems, including the development of digital tools for data collection (e.g., KoboToolbox, ODK, or similar platforms).
• Strong attention to detail and ability to present data in a clear, concise, and visually compelling format.
• Excellent organizational, planning, and time management skills.
• Knowledge of Sudanese geography, humanitarian and development contexts, and existing spatial datasets will be a strong asset.
• Ability to work effectively in multi-cultural, multi-disciplinary teams and under pressure in complex operating environments.
• Familiarity with data protection, data ethics, and responsible data management practices.

Contract

This is a UNV National Expert contract. This kind of contract is known as National UN Volunteer. It is normally only for nationals. More about UNV National Expert contracts.

UNDP works in about 170 countries and territories, helping to achieve the eradication of poverty, and the reduction of inequalities and exclusion. We help countries to develop policies, leadership skills, partnering abilities, institutional capabilities and build resilience in order to sustain development results. In Sudan, UNDP supports a broad range of development interventions. At present, this focuses on support for Sudan’s transition, coupled with efforts on peacebuilding and stabilization, climate-resilience and access to energy, and broader health and economic improvement. Learn more about our impact in 2019. With dedicated support from donor nations, the international community, and national and international partners, UNDP works in Sudan to deliver on our promise to empower resilient nations. Serving as the main development integrator in Sudan, UNDP supports SDG-focused strategic capacity development initiatives nationwide, focusing on: inclusive socioeconomic transformation and revival; restoring governance through inclusive and accountable institutions; sustaining and consolidating local peacebuilding; and investing in a new Green Deal through renewable energy and climate resilience efforts. Through our active partnerships with national and international entities, UNDP strives to eliminate poverty, enable recovery, and ensure effective management of natural resources, and advance peace and social cohesion. Achieving this will require investment in stabilization and resilience strengthening at all levels of society, in tandem with humanitarian assistance. For more details of UNDP work in Sudan please visit https://www.sd.undp.org/ Under the overall supervision of the Programme Manager and based in Port Sudan, the GIS Specialist will play a key role in visualizing project interventions, supporting data-driven decision-making, and enhancing knowledge sharing.

1. Geo-Spatial Data Management, Analysis, and Advocacy • Collect, manage, and analyze geospatial data to support programmatic planning, monitoring, and advocacy. • Conduct geospatial analyses to inform evidence-based decision-making across UNDP Sudan projects. • Develop and maintain geographic databases, including layers such as project coordinates, satellite imagery, and administrative boundaries. • Support policy development and the implementation of standards related to geospatial data, mapping, and information sharing. • Generate analytical products (maps, dashboards, risk profiles, etc.) to support scenario development, contingency planning, and risk analysis. • Coordinate dissemination of geospatial products through structured and timely communication channels to all relevant stakeholders.

2. Development of Story Maps and Visual Maps • Design and develop Web Story Maps and static visualizations to showcase project achievements, implementation progress, and geographic coverage. • Create dynamic, interactive maps incorporating text narratives, photos, videos, infographics, and other multimedia to present a holistic view of UNDP interventions. • Develop and update project-specific Story Maps for internal use and external sharing with donors, partners, and the public. • Ensure all visual products align with UNDP standards and branding guidelines.

3. Development of Data Collection Tools

• Support the development of mobile- and web-based data collection tools for assessments, monitoring and evaluation (M&E), and quality assurance. • Ensure proper geo-tagging and integration of collected data with GIS platforms for visualization and reporting.

4. Knowledge Building and Capacity Development

• Facilitate training sessions and produce training materials (manuals, guides, video tutorials) to build the capacity of the UNDP team and implementing partners in GIS and information management. • Promote knowledge sharing and peer learning among program staff, partners, and stakeholders. • Document lessons learned, success stories, and best practices to inform future programming.

5. Additional Responsibilities

• Perform other related duties within the functional profile as required to support the efficient functioning of the Country Office and the achievement of program results.

• Accountability • Adaptability and flexibility • Creativity • Judgement and decision-making • Planning and organizing • Professionalism • Self-management

• Proven experience in spatial data analysis, map production, and the use of GIS software such as ArcGIS, QGIS, and Web GIS platforms. • Demonstrated ability to manage and visualize complex datasets using tools like Microsoft Excel, Access, and Power BI. • Hands-on experience with geographic databases, satellite imagery, and development of Story Maps and dashboards for reporting. • Strong programming and data processing skills, including use of Python, SQL, R, or JavaScript libraries for geospatial data. • Experience developing web-based interactive maps and visual products. • Familiarity with M&E systems, including the development of digital tools for data collection (e.g., KoboToolbox, ODK, or similar platforms). • Strong attention to detail and ability to present data in a clear, concise, and visually compelling format. • Excellent organizational, planning, and time management skills. • Previous experience with UN agencies, international NGOs, or multilateral development organizations in information management or GIS-related functions is highly desirable. • Knowledge of Sudanese geography, humanitarian and development contexts, and existing spatial datasets will be a strong asset. • Ability to work effectively in multi-cultural, multi-disciplinary teams and under pressure in complex operating environments. • Familiarity with data protection, data ethics, and responsible data management practices. • Female candidates are encouraged to apply

Port Sudan is currently one of the safest operational areas in Sudan, with relatively stable security compared to other conflict-affected regions. Access is possible via Port Sudan Airport with limited commercial and UNHAS flights. The climate is hot and humid, especially in summer months. Modest dress is culturally expected, and alcohol is strictly prohibited. Accommodation options are limited and costly due to high demand. Basic food and water are available but expensive, and power outages are frequent. Medical facilities are functional but limited in capacity—serious cases may require evacuation. Banking services are minimal with limited access to cash; mobile money is used occasionally. Internet and telecom services are available but often unreliable. Sudan is a unique country and is a unique operation. It provides an interesting and enriching environment, but also requires a mature level of cultural awareness, as well as stamina and commitment. Therefore, flexibility and the ability and willingness to live and work in harsh and potentially hazardous conditions, involving physical hardship and little comfort, are essential.

UN Volunteer for events supporting UNDP in Sudan

The support provided by the UN Volunteer supporting UNDP in Sudan is a Special Programme Initiative (SPI) by UNV. SPIs respond to volunteer-specific needs of the United Nations system and donor entities. They are established by specific policy documents that address the desired programmatic aims and broader SDG outcomes in line with UNV guiding principles. UN Volunteers for this SPI are governed by the particular conditions set out in their offers and contracts.

In addition to the specific requirements set out above, candidates for these volunteer assignments will be subject to background checks, confirmation and clearance provided by the United Nations Department for Safety and Security (UNDSS). Candidates who do not pass this security clearance are prohibited from serving as a UN Volunteer for UNDP in Sudan.

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Potential interview questions

Added 9 months ago - Updated 8 months ago - Source: unv.org