Volunteer Assignment - GIS and Remote Sensing Support

Job Posting Organization:
The International Institute for Capacity Development and Private Sector Development (IICPSD) is a part of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and was established in 201

• The organization aims to support the private sector and foundations in becoming transformative partners in development through various means such as research, advocacy for inclusive business, and facilitating public-private dialogue. IICPSD operates globally, leading UNDP's initiatives on private sector engagement and foundations, focusing on four thematic areas: Inclusive Business, Private Sector Engagement in Skills Development, Impact Investing, and Resilience and Crisis Response. The organization also hosts several global initiatives including the Business Call to Action, SDG Philanthropy Platform, Global Islamic Finance and Impact Investing Platform, and the Connecting Business Initiative. Through its Tech Volunteers for Resilience (Tech4R) programme, UNDP mobilizes skilled volunteers worldwide to co-create open-source digital solutions aimed at enhancing disaster preparedness and response, particularly leveraging geospatial intelligence and remote sensing for disaster data systems in Armenia.

Job Overview:
The position involves supporting the development of an integrated disaster risk data platform in Armenia, which is being developed by UNDP Armenia and the Tech4R programme. The role is crucial for ensuring effective emergency response through the use of GIS and remote sensing technologies. Volunteers will be part of various teams, including the GIS & Remote Sensing team, the Digital Tool & Dashboard Development Support team, and the Data Collection Support team. Each team has specific functions, such as integrating GIS outputs with field data, providing technical guidance, developing user-friendly dashboards, conducting functionality testing, and ensuring data quality and accessibility. This volunteer assignment is unpaid but offers valuable experience in a real-world, UN-driven project.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The volunteers will have specific responsibilities based on their assigned teams. The GIS & Remote Sensing team will focus on integrating GIS outputs with field-collected data and providing technical guidance to national GIS officers and emergency teams. The Digital Tool & Dashboard Development Support team will work on integrating AI or automation features into dashboards, ensuring they are user-friendly and accessible to diverse stakeholders, conducting functionality testing, troubleshooting bugs, and refining workflows. The Data Collection Support Volunteer will conduct data quality checks, troubleshoot issues, and assist with the translation and localization of forms and training materials into Armenian and Russian. Overall, the volunteers will play a vital role in building layered maps, processing drone and satellite imagery, and integrating spatial data into decision-support tools.

Required Qualifications:
The position requires volunteers to possess a strong understanding of GIS and remote sensing technologies, as well as experience in data collection and analysis. Technical skills in integrating GIS outputs with other data sources and developing user-friendly digital tools are essential. Volunteers should also have the ability to work collaboratively in a team environment and provide technical guidance to others. Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to troubleshoot technical issues are important for this role. Additionally, volunteers should be adaptable and flexible, with a commitment to supporting communities in need through their work.

Educational Background:
While specific educational qualifications are not explicitly stated, a background in geography, environmental science, data science, computer science, or a related field is likely beneficial for this position. Knowledge of GIS software and remote sensing techniques is crucial, and any formal education or training in these areas would be advantageous.

Experience:
The role is designed for individuals who may have varying levels of experience, but a foundational understanding of GIS and remote sensing is necessary. Previous volunteer experience or internships in related fields would be beneficial, as would any practical experience in data collection, analysis, or digital tool development. The position is suitable for both recent graduates and those looking to gain further experience in the field.

Languages:
Proficiency in Armenian and Russian is mandatory, as the role involves translation and localization of materials. Knowledge of English is also important, as it is often the working language in international organizations. Additional language skills may be considered an asset, particularly if they relate to the communities being served.

Additional Notes:
This is an unpaid volunteer assignment, and it is important to note that it is not an employment position. Volunteers will receive private insurance coverage for health, dental, life, and dismemberment during the assignment. Other benefits include opportunities for international collaboration and mentorship, skills development in real-world UN-driven projects, and a Certificate of Service upon completion of the assignment. The role is part of the Tech4R programme, which focuses on mobilizing skilled digital volunteers to create open-source solutions that enhance disaster resilience.