Online Volunteer for Environmental Impact Assessment

Job Posting Organization:
Morobe Development Foundation Inc. (MDF) is a prominent NGO based in Lae, Morobe Province, Papua New Guinea. Established with the mission to empower young people and promote community development through various artistic expressions such as dance, music, and drama, MDF aims to ensure equal participation of women in decision-making processes. The organization is committed to addressing broader objectives, including the fight against violence towards women and the promotion of human rights, aligning its efforts with the Sustainable Development Goals. MDF collaborates with international volunteers and experts to conduct scientific research on environmental issues, showcasing its dedication to biodiversity conservation and sustainable practices. The management committee of MDF comprises diverse members, ensuring inclusive governance and decision-making.

Job Overview:
The position of Online Volunteer for Environmental Impact Assessment at MDF is designed for individuals with expertise in environmental engineering, GIS, and environmental science. The primary function of this role is to support a comprehensive environmental impact assessment for a conservation area in Huon District, Morobe Province. Volunteers will engage in various tasks aimed at evaluating the ecological status of the area, identifying environmental damage, assessing climate change risks, and proposing sustainable conservation measures. This project is crucial for understanding the environmental challenges faced by the region and aims to contribute to the Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG 13 - Climate Action. Volunteers will work collaboratively to analyze environmental data, which will empower local communities to make informed decisions regarding resource management and conservation practices.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities for the Online Volunteers are divided among four specific roles: 1) GIS Support: This volunteer will assist in mapping the conservation area using GPS tools, interpret satellite imagery, and produce accurate maps that highlight key environmental features and potential risks. 2) Environmental Engineering Support: This role involves analyzing the impacts of infrastructure on the environment, assessing water quality, and evaluating soil degradation. The volunteer will interpret laboratory reports related to water and soil samples to identify environmental damage. 3) Literature Review: This volunteer will conduct a comprehensive literature review to gather existing research on the environmental status of the region, focusing on ecosystem health, biodiversity, and climate change vulnerabilities. 4) Report Writing: The final volunteer will compile and organize all collected data into a comprehensive environmental impact assessment report, summarizing findings from GIS maps, literature reviews, and laboratory analyses, and proposing sustainable conservation strategies based on the data.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates for this position should possess relevant qualifications in environmental engineering, GIS, or environmental science. They should have a strong understanding of environmental assessment methodologies and be proficient in data analysis and interpretation. Experience with GIS software and tools is essential for the GIS Support role, while the Environmental Engineering Support role requires knowledge of water quality analysis and soil science. The Literature Review volunteer should have strong research skills and the ability to synthesize information from various sources. The Report Writing volunteer must have excellent writing skills and the ability to present complex data in a clear and concise manner.

Educational Background:
A degree in environmental engineering, environmental science, geography, or a related field is required for this position. Advanced degrees or specialized training in GIS or environmental assessment methodologies will be considered an asset. Candidates should demonstrate a strong academic background and a commitment to environmental conservation and community development.

Experience:
Volunteers should have prior experience in environmental assessments, GIS mapping, or related fields. Experience working with NGOs or in community development projects is highly desirable. Candidates should be able to demonstrate their ability to work collaboratively in a team environment and possess strong analytical and problem-solving skills.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position, as all communication and reporting will be conducted in English. Knowledge of Tok Pisin or other local languages would be advantageous but is not required.

Additional Notes:
This is a volunteer position, and the duration of the contract is not specified. The role is designed for individuals who can work remotely, allowing for flexibility in participation. Volunteers will be expected to commit a certain number of hours per week to complete their tasks. MDF is open to recruiting volunteers from various countries, promoting an international collaborative effort to address environmental challenges in Papua New Guinea.