Geospatial Information Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The position is located within the Geospatial Information Section (GIS) of the Technology Operations Service (TOS), Operations Support Division (OSD) in the Office of Information and Communications Technology (OICT) at the United Nations. The OICT is responsible for leading the digital transformation of the UN, aiming to create a better, safer, and more sustainable future through innovative technology solutions. The organization is committed to achieving gender balance and geographical diversity among its staff, encouraging female candidates to apply. OICT also promotes work-life balance and flexible work arrangements, reflecting its commitment to a supportive work environment.

Job Overview:
The Geospatial Information Officer will play a crucial role in providing cartographic and geospatial information support to the security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Security Council and its Panels of Experts. This position involves conducting research on geospatial and geopolitical issues, preparing briefing maps and presentation materials, and consulting with various UN departments to ensure timely and appropriate delivery of geospatial products. The officer will also support UN field operations, including peacekeeping missions, by conducting research, validating geospatial data, and maintaining the UN geo-database. The role requires a strong understanding of cartography and geospatial information technology, as well as the ability to apply UN guidelines in the production of maps and geospatial analysis products. The incumbent will also participate in activities related to the United Nations Committee of Experts on Global Geospatial Information Management (UN-GGIM) and the UN Geospatial Network, contributing to the overall mission of the UN in managing geospatial information effectively.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Geospatial Information Officer will be responsible for a variety of duties, including: providing cartographic and geospatial information support to the Security Council; conducting research on geospatial and geopolitical issues; preparing briefing maps and presentation materials; consulting with requesting offices to ensure timely delivery of cartographic products; supporting UN field operations with geospatial information; validating and compiling geospatial data; preparing planning and operation maps; maintaining the UN geo-database; providing guidance for maps published under UN guidelines; conducting research on international boundary issues; managing the SALB Programme; and participating in UN-GGIM activities. The officer will also be expected to perform other duties as assigned, demonstrating professionalism and a commitment to the UN's values.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess substantive knowledge of cartography and geospatial information technology, particularly in small and medium scale map production. They should have the ability to produce technical reports and review the work of others, applying UN rules and regulations effectively. The ideal candidate will demonstrate professionalism, efficiency, and a commitment to gender perspectives in their work. Strong client orientation skills are essential, as the officer will need to establish productive partnerships with clients and anticipate their needs. Technological awareness is also important, with a willingness to learn and apply new technologies in the office's work.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Master's degree or equivalent) in Cartography, Geography, Geospatial Information Science, Remote Sensing, or a related discipline is required. Alternatively, a first-level university degree combined with two years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree. This educational background should involve substantial cartographic production and geospatial information services, ensuring that the candidate has the necessary theoretical and practical knowledge for the role.

Experience:
A minimum of five years of progressively responsible experience in geospatial information-related work is required. Candidates should have experience in cartographic production for small-scale briefing maps and medium-scale planning and operations maps. Additionally, experience in managing and maintaining geospatial databases is essential. Familiarity with GIS open-source software such as QGIS and graphic software like Adobe Photoshop or Illustrator is desirable. Experience in national mapping agencies or organizations dealing with cartographic and geospatial products is also beneficial, as it demonstrates a comprehensive understanding of the field.

Languages:
Fluency in English is required, as it is one of the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. Knowledge of another official UN language, such as French, is desirable and can enhance a candidate's profile for this position. Proficiency in multiple languages can be an asset in a diverse and multicultural work environment like the UN.

Additional Notes:
The appointment for this position is for an initial period of one year, with the possibility of extension based on organizational needs and performance. The United Nations is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive environment, and all employment decisions are made based on qualifications and organizational needs. The UN does not charge a fee at any stage of the recruitment process, and candidates are encouraged to follow all application instructions carefully. The evaluation of applicants will be based on the information submitted in their applications, and candidates under serious consideration will undergo reference checks to verify their qualifications.