Environmental Risk Mapping Volunteers

Job Posting Organization:
UN-Habitat, the United Nations Human Settlements Programme, was established by the UN General Assembly to promote sustainable and resilient urban environments. Its mission is to ensure that cities and towns are well-planned, governed, and equipped with adequate housing, infrastructure, and access to essential services. UN-Habitat operates globally, focusing on urbanization and human settlement issues, and is actively involved in crisis response and recovery efforts, particularly in regions like Ukraine, where it supports local and national governments in rebuilding and enhancing urban planning capacities.

Job Overview:
The Environmental Risk Mapping Volunteers will play a crucial role in the Tech Volunteers for Resilience (Tech4R) programme, which aims to enhance disaster preparedness and sustainable recovery through digital solutions. Volunteers will be tasked with creating a GIS-Based Recovery Dashboard for Borodianka hromada, integrating vital data on environmental hazards and reconstruction efforts. This position requires volunteers to engage in data collection, analysis, and collaboration with various teams to ensure the dashboard effectively informs recovery planning. The role is designed for individuals who are passionate about contributing to community resilience and urban recovery efforts in Ukraine.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The primary duties of the Environmental Risk Mapping Volunteers include:

• Identifying and collecting spatial datasets related to environmental and hazard risks, such as floodplains, fire zones, contamination areas, and critical infrastructure.
• Processing and preparing GIS layers for integration into the recovery dashboard.
• Analyzing the overlaps between reconstruction project sites and identified environmental risks.
• Collaborating with GIS and Dashboard Development teams to ensure accurate alignment and representation of hazard layers.
• Developing simple risk indicators to assess proximity, exposure, and impact levels of environmental hazards.
• Supporting the visualization of environmental data in formats that are user-friendly and accessible.
• Documenting data sources, metadata, and methodologies to ensure transparency and facilitate future use of the data.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates for the Environmental Risk Mapping Volunteers position should possess strong analytical skills, a background in GIS or environmental science, and a commitment to community service. Familiarity with data collection and processing techniques, as well as experience in working with spatial datasets, is essential. Volunteers should also demonstrate adaptability, creativity, and professionalism in their approach to tasks. Strong communication skills and the ability to work collaboratively in a team environment are highly valued.

Educational Background:
A degree in environmental science, geography, urban planning, or a related field is preferred for this volunteer position. Candidates should have a solid understanding of GIS software and tools, as well as experience in data analysis and visualization techniques. Educational background in disaster management or sustainable development would be an asset.

Experience:
While prior experience in GIS or environmental risk assessment is beneficial, it is not strictly required. The position is open to individuals who are eager to learn and contribute to the Tech4R programme. Volunteers should be comfortable working in a dynamic environment and be willing to engage with various stakeholders involved in the recovery process.

Languages:
Proficiency in English is mandatory, as all documentation and communication will be conducted in this language. Knowledge of Ukrainian or Russian would be advantageous, as it may facilitate better engagement with local communities and stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This is a volunteer assignment, meaning it is unpaid. However, volunteers will receive private insurance coverage for health, dental, life, and dismemberment during their assignment. Additional benefits include opportunities for international collaboration, mentorship, skills development in real-world UN projects, and a Certificate of Service upon completion. The assignment is part of the Tech4R programme, which focuses on mobilizing digital volunteers to create open-source solutions for disaster resilience.