GIS Technician for DanChurchAid’s Syria Programme

The DCA Syria programme is a fast growing programme with a 3-year footprint in northern Syria. The activities are wide-ranging and include risk education, survey, clearance of explosive hazards, cash transfers, vocational training, NFI distribution, psychosocial support, school and house rehabilitation.

As the GIS Technician (GIST) you will manage all information and data for the DCA programme in NES, with specific focus on the Humanitarian Mine Action (HMA) activities. You will be responsible for all mapping tasks and you will play a key role in recording and reporting DCA activities for sharing with other actors in the various humanitarian sectors, donors and all other relevant stakeholders. In relation to HMA, the GIST will have responsibility for data collection and ensuring that reporting is in line with International Mine Action Standards (IMAS), using Information Management System for Mine Action (IMSMA) forms as and where possible. In relation to other operational departments within the programme, the GIST will be responsible for managing and capacity building national information and data management staff who will record all data related to all DCA activities in Syria.

Main technical tasks and responsibilities include:

• Promote, facilitate and provide leadership for improved coordination and cooperation on data management and information sharing;
• Evaluate and analyze the current programme information management products, procedures and best practices, in a spirit of cooperation to improve data gathering and storing standards;
• Recruit, train, capacity build and mentor team of national data and information management staff;
• Ensure accurate linkages between spatial databases and assessment data;
• Ensure that the produced maps and reports meet the requirements of IMAS and IMSMA;
• Supervise and monitor all programme output data collection. Monitor accuracy of data collected. Cross check data collected in the field, ensure regular updates and solve eventual discrepancies;
• Manage, update and share weekly/monthly activity updates;
• Set-up, maintain, update and expand system of data management and analysis for data dissemination and reporting;
• Help ensure complete and timely reporting of activities, in accordance with various sectors, donor and HQ requirements;
• Provide technical support assessments and analysis for all departments in the DCA programme in NES, including creation and management of data collection tools (especially KOBO), training on data cleaning and management techniques, support for data analysis, and ad hoc mapping support upon request;
• Maintain the strictest confidentiality of data and processes, and actively take measures to prevent the unauthorized sharing of information and data;
• Work in close coordination with all programmatic departments in the programme to ensure a coordinated response to the humanitarian needs on the ground;
• Assist with the production of project reports and case studies, and provide input to the Country Director for the design, preparation and presentation of new concept notes, donor briefs and project proposals;
• Stay informed and current on new GIS methodology and tools;
• Any other appropriate duties, as requested by the Operations Manager or Country Director.

Additional responsibilities include:

• Contribute to culture of excellence, continuous improvement and performance optimization across all projects;
• Be a role model for diversity and inclusion, and contribute to a positive team spirit.

We are looking for the following qualifications:

• University degree in Geography/GIS or a related discipline;
• 2 years of experience in GIS / Database management, preferably in a humanitarian mine action context;
• Excellent knowledge of IMSMA forms and IMAS requirements related to data collection and recording;
• Considerable experience analysing complex data, knowledge of statistical programming languages and packages mandatory;
• Previous experience with mobile data collection, especially KOBO;
• Knowledge of the Adobe Suite, particularly Illustrator and InDesign;
• Excellent team management skills;
• Ability to operate in a cross-cultural environment requiring flexibility;
• Familiarity with the aid system, and understanding of donor and governmental requirements;
• Prior knowledge of the region an asset;
• Fluency in English essential. Working knowledge of Arabic an asset;
• Ability to operate Microsoft Word, Excel and Project Management Software;
• Ability to coordinate several projects simultaneously;
• Ability to maintain flexibility in an environment where change or revision to projects and planning is a regular occurence;
• Ability to fit well within a small team;
• High level of autonomy and willingness to spend time in field locations.

We offer:

• 12-month contract starting as soon as possible, with possibility for renewal;
• A competitive salary package based on experience level, hardship allowance, cost of living allowance, R&R, 40 days of annual leave;
• Medical and accident insurances as per industry standards;
• An opportunity to make a difference addressing humanitarian needs in a challenging environment.

All qualified candidates irrespective of age, gender, race, religion or ethnic affiliation are encouraged to apply for the vacancy. Only online applications consisting as a minimum of a CV and a cover letter will be considered and only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

Closing date for applications will be 29 September 2019. Interviews will be held on a rolling basis. DCA reserves the right to select a candidate prior to the deadline.
Everyone applying for a job with DCA must be ready to comply with our Staff Policy on Prevention of Sexual Exploitation, Abuse and Harassment and our Child Safeguarding Policy.