Senior Geospatial Information Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Global Geospatial Knowledge and Innovation Centre (UN-GGKIC) is part of the Statistics Division (SD) within the Department of Economic and Social Affairs (DESA). The Centre aims to implement the United Nations Integrated Geospatial Information Framework (UN-IGIF) as set by Member States. It focuses on developing capacity, promoting innovation, and supporting the integration of geospatial information into national government policies and strategies. The organization is committed to enhancing the capabilities of countries in managing geospatial information effectively and efficiently.

Job Overview:
The Senior Geospatial Information Officer serves as the Deputy Head of the UN-GGKIC, reporting directly to the Head of the Centre. This position is pivotal in implementing the Centre's work programme and projects, which align with the agreed Framework Plan. The officer is responsible for planning and directing the use of geospatial data and technology, providing both methodical and managerial supervision. This role involves preparing position papers and reports for various committees, developing guidance for integrating geospatial information with statistics, and delivering technical advisory activities for national capacity development. The officer will also oversee data management and ensure that geospatial information assets are managed securely and efficiently. The position requires collaboration with various stakeholders and represents the Centre at inter-agency meetings, contributing substantive expertise on geospatial information management.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Senior Geospatial Information Officer will implement the substantive work programme of the UN-GGKIC, manage staff performance, provide input for position papers, and coordinate the development of tools for integrating geospatial information. Responsibilities include planning and supervising technical advisory activities, guiding team members in data analysis, ensuring quality control in geospatial data management, and developing strategies for geospatial information management. The officer will also represent the Centre at meetings, oversee geospatial information management staff, and deputize for the Head of the Centre as needed. This role requires a proactive approach to identifying and resolving conflicts and driving improvements in geospatial information management.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong understanding of the operational focus of the Committee of Experts on Global Geospatial Information Management and the Sustainable Development Goals. They should demonstrate the ability to provide technical advice, produce reports on technical issues, and apply UN rules and regulations effectively. The ideal candidate will show professionalism, effective communication skills, creativity in problem-solving, leadership capabilities, and a commitment to gender balance in staffing.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in geography, geomatics, geospatial information, Earth sciences, computer sciences, or related fields is required. Alternatively, a first-level university degree combined with two additional years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree.

Experience:
A minimum of ten years of progressively responsible experience in geospatial information management, applied spatial analytics, earth observations, mapping, data visualization, or related areas is required. Candidates should have experience in using geospatial data to guide decisions and develop strategic directions, as well as experience in managing geospatial technologies and methodologies. Experience in team and project management is essential, and familiarity with international organizations is desirable.

Languages:
English is required for this position, with a minimum proficiency level of UN Level III in reading, writing, listening, and speaking. Chinese (Mandarin) is desirable, with a minimum proficiency level of UN Level I in all language skills.

Additional Notes:
This position is for an extrabudgetary-funded project of finite duration, with an initial appointment period of one year. The appointment is subject to the availability of the post or funds and budgetary approval. The United Nations is committed to achieving gender balance and encourages female candidates to apply. The organization adheres to a non-smoking environment and provides reasonable accommodations for applicants with disabilities upon request.