Online Volunteer for Sustainable Energy Academy

Online Volunteer for Sustainable Energy Academy

United Nations Development Programme (UNDP)

May 16, 2025June 30, 2025United States
Job Description
Job Posting Organization:
The UNDP Sustainable Energy Hub is a collaborative network that partners with countries to transform energy systems through an integrated agenda focused on policy, technology, and financial shifts that promote sustainable economic development. The organization aims to help countries build net-zero, people-centered societies driven by a just and sustainable energy transition. Established to mobilize partners and enable access to sustainable energy for 500 million additional people by 2025, the UNDP Sustainable Energy Hub operates under the principles of inclusivity and integrated approaches to energy for development. The Hub is part of UNDP's broader mission, which emphasizes the importance of sustainable energy in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Job Overview:
The position of Online Volunteer for the Sustainable Energy Academy involves supporting the development of interactive maps that will enhance lesson interactivity and convey regional and thematic insights related to energy for development. Volunteers will work closely with the Sustainable Energy Hub to create educational resources that align with national energy strategies and the Academy's pedagogical goals. The role requires a strong understanding of GIS, data visualization, and digital learning tools, as the maps will be used to present complex data in a user-friendly format. This initiative is part of a broader effort to provide tailored capacity-building programs that connect energy with critical nexus topics such as water management, food resilience, finance, health, employment, social protection, climate, security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security, and gender equality.

Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Review two modules of assigned lesson content to identify spatial, contextual, and data-driven elements that could be illustrated through interactive maps.
  • Propose five appropriate map concepts per module that align with the pedagogical goals of the Academy and the Energy for Development approach.
  • Identify, clean, and validate relevant datasets (1-2 per map) from national, regional, or global sources, utilizing open data portals, institutional reports, or UNDP sources.
  • Implement ten interactive maps using the UNDP Data Viz Library and Apache ECharts.
  • Coordinate with the Sustainable Energy Hub GIS focal point to ensure consistency and alignment with visual identity and technical requirements.
  • Provide short documentation (1-2 paragraphs) explaining each map's logic, data sources, and suggested usage within the lesson.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must have demonstrated experience in GIS, data visualization, and digital learning tools. Familiarity with the UNDP Data Viz Library and Apache ECharts is highly desirable. Additionally, candidates should possess strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work collaboratively in a remote environment. A proactive approach to problem-solving and the ability to communicate effectively with diverse stakeholders are essential for success in this role.

Educational Background:
A background in geography, environmental science, data science, education, or a related field is preferred. Candidates should have relevant coursework or training in GIS and data visualization techniques, as well as experience in educational program development or instructional design.

Experience:
The position requires prior experience in GIS and data visualization, ideally within the context of educational or capacity-building initiatives. Experience working with international organizations or in the field of sustainable energy is a plus. Candidates should demonstrate a strong understanding of how to translate complex data into accessible formats for diverse audiences.

Languages:
Proficiency in English is mandatory, as all communications and documentation will be conducted in this language. Knowledge of additional languages, particularly those relevant to the regions served by the Sustainable Energy Hub, is considered an asset.

Additional Notes:
This is a volunteer position, and the duration of the contract is not specified. The role is fully remote, allowing for flexibility in working hours. Volunteers will gain valuable experience collaborating with a global network of experts and practitioners in the field of sustainable energy, contributing to impactful initiatives that promote clean and just energy solutions.
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