Geospatial Information Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The Geospatial Information Section (GIS) is part of the Technology Operations Service (TOS) within the Operations Support Division (OSD) of the Office of Information and Communications Technology (OICT) at the United Nations. The GIS provides essential geospatial information and services to support decision-making and operational needs of the security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Security Council, the Secretariat, and United Nations Peace Operations. The section manages the program for UN field mission geospatial information operations and ensures compliance with UN guidelines for map publication. OICT is committed to digital transformation, gender balance, and geographical diversity, encouraging female candidates to apply and supporting work-life balance and flexible arrangements.

Job Overview:
The Geospatial Information Officer will play a crucial role in providing cartographic and geospatial information support to the Security Council and its Panels of Experts. This position involves conducting research on geospatial and geopolitical issues, preparing briefing maps, and presenting cartographic information during closed consultations. The officer will also support UN field operations, ensuring timely and accurate preparation of geospatial products. The role requires maintaining the UN geo-database and providing guidance for maps published under UN guidelines. The officer will engage in research on international boundary issues and manage the activities of the Second Administrative Level Boundary (SALB) Programme, ensuring effective communication and integration with other UN initiatives.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Geospatial Information Officer will be responsible for a variety of tasks, including: providing cartographic and geospatial information support to the Security Council; conducting research on geospatial issues; preparing briefing maps and presentation materials; consulting with various departments to ensure timely delivery of geospatial products; supporting UN field operations; validating and compiling geospatial data; preparing planning and operation maps; maintaining the UN geo-database; conducting research on international boundary issues; managing the SALB Programme; and participating in activities related to the UN Committee of Experts on Global Geospatial Information Management (UN-GGIM). Additional duties may be assigned as required.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess substantive knowledge of cartography and geospatial information technology, particularly in small and medium scale map production. They should demonstrate the ability to produce technical reports and review the work of others, applying UN rules and regulations effectively. A strong sense of professionalism, client orientation, and technological awareness is essential. The candidate should be motivated by professional concerns, capable of handling stressful situations, and committed to gender perspectives in their work.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Master's 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.

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 briefing and planning maps, management and maintenance of geospatial databases, and familiarity with GIS open-source software such as QGIS. Experience with graphic software like Adobe Photoshop or Illustrator is also desirable, as is experience in national mapping agencies or organizations dealing with cartographic products.

Languages:
Fluency in English is required for this position, 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 may enhance a candidate's profile.

Additional Notes:
The appointment for this position is for an initial period of one year, with the possibility of extension. The United Nations is committed to achieving gender balance and geographical diversity in its staff, and female candidates are strongly encouraged to apply. The recruitment process adheres to strict standards of efficiency, competence, and integrity, with a focus on creating a diverse and inclusive environment. Candidates will be subject to reference checks and must provide accurate information in their applications. The UN does not charge any fees during the recruitment process.