GIS Manager

GIS MANAGER

Conservation International protects nature for the benefit of humanity. Through science, policy, fieldwork, and finance, we spotlight and secure the most important places in nature for the climate, biodiversity, and for people. With offices in 30 countries and projects in more than 100 countries, Conservation International partners with governments, companies, civil society, Indigenous peoples, and local communities to help people and nature thrive together.

The “Ecosystem-Based Adaptation and Mitigation in Botswana’s Communal Rangelands” Project funded by Green Climate Fund (GCF) aims to utilize collective management of livestock and ecosystems to restore Botswana’s communal rangelands, increasing the climate resilience of vulnerable populations and reducing GHG emissions. Over 8 years, the project will undertake activities in 104 villages in the Project Areas: Ngamiland, Kgalagadi and Bobirwa geographic areas of Botswana to improve management of 4.6 million hectares of rangelands. The day-to-day activities of the Project are implemented in each of the three Project Areas. Administratively, the project areas cover the following districts: Okavango and North-West and Okavango Districts (Ngamiland Area); Hukuntsi, Tsabong and Mabutsane Districts (Kgalagadi Area); and Bobirwa District (Bobirwa Area).

POSITION SUMMARY - This position is based in Gaborone, Botswana

The GIS Manager supports ecosystem-based mitigation and adaptation efforts in Botswana's communal rangelands. The role reports to the Senior M&E Manager and collaborates with the Deputy Chief of Party (DCoP) and the H4H Senior Technical Manager on the development and management of a Rangeland Stewardship Portal, leading the remote sensing component. The role will leverage GIS technology to create spatial products and services that aid in sustainable land management and help communities adapt to environmental changes. The GIS Manager is responsible for a variety of technical office and field duties, updating, maintaining, and analyzing the project’s GIS and utility infrastructure data using GIS, database, and information management applications. Coordinates and performs technical remote sensing research and field data collection while fully owning the full lifecycle of applications, data integrations, and spatial analysis, working with large datasets to drive impactful decisions.

RESPONSIBILITIES

Portal Development:

• Work with the Senior M&E Manager and DCoP on the development and management of the Rangeland Stewardship Portal.
• Lead the remote sensing component of the portal, ensuring accurate and up-to-date data integration.

Application and Data Management:

• Own the full lifecycle of GIS applications, data integrations, and spatial analysis.
• Lead end-to-end analytics using data blending, transformations, and critical evaluation through descriptive, diagnostic, and predictive methods.
• Manage and analyze large datasets, including satellite Imagery, Demographic variables, and rangeland monitoring data updated monthly.

Develop and maintain GIS database relevant to rangeland ecosystems:

• Spatial Analysis and Product Development:
• Utilize GIS tools to analyze spatial data related to Botswana's rangelands.
• Create various digital mapping and remotely sensed products using multiple software platforms.
• Develop raster products, LiDAR products, and manage publishing and portal activities.
• Apply appropriate spatial analysis techniques, technology, and data to address end-user requests.

Application Development and Customization:

• Lead the development of tools, web applications, dashboards, and customized solutions to effectively visualize spatial data.
• Use coding and scripting (Python, Batch, SQL) to automate GIS workflows and enhance application functionality.
• Employ Model Builders and data interoperability tools for efficient GIS processes.

Collaboration and Support:

• Collaborate with the project team, local communities, and various departments to develop appropriate geospatial solutions.
• Serve as the primary lead for requests from managed groups, acting as a liaison to maintain applications and analyses that aid multiple departments.
• Manage user groups across multiple platforms to drive engagement, communicate updates, and gather feedback for application development.
• Provide training of staff members.

Data Capture and Analysis:

• Capture, produce, geoprocess, and analyze geospatial data from various sources, including elevation, land use, and hydrography.
• Create and manipulate databases to support spatial analysis and decision-making.
• Update GIS data on rangeland resources, land use, and environmental factors regularly.

Problem Solving and Communication:

• Show strong interdependence across departments to address end-user requests and projects.
• Maintain strong working relationships to solve complex analytical problems.
• Communicate findings through maps, reports, and presentations to stakeholders.

WORKING CONDITIONS

• Normal office environment.
• Working outside normal working hours.
• Ability to travel frequently in the remote areas within the Project Area.
• Ability for teamwork.
• Supporting the staff in the implementation of other activities outside of their main responsibilities if needed.
• This role will be a fixed-term assignment

QUALIFICATIONS

Required

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent combination of education and experience in Geospatial Sciences, Environmental Studies, or a related field, plus 4 to 6 years of relevant professional experience.
• Knowledge of GIS fundamentals, including coordinating systems and projections.
• Proficiency with ESRI ArcGIS software.
• Experience in spatial analysis, digital cartography, and data manipulation.
• Proficiency in capturing, producing, geoprocessing, and analyzing data.
• Strong coding and scripting skills (Python, Batch, SQL).
• Experience in creating and manipulating databases.
• Understanding of ecosystem management and conservation principles.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to collaborate effectively with diverse communities.
• Proficiency in basic computer applications (MS Office).
• Passion for environmental sustainability and community development.

Preferred

• Experience working in Botswana or similar environments.
• Familiarity with Botswana's ecosystems and rangeland management practices.
• Extensive experience in raster product development, LiDAR products, publishing, and portal management.
• Skills in web application and dashboard development and customization.
• Experience with large datasets and data management.
• Knowledge of elevation and feature processing, and data manipulation across various categories.
• Skills in task management, problem resolution, report writing, and collaborative training initiatives.

To apply for this position, please submit a resume and cover letter.

Application Deadline: October 26, 2026 (11:49 PM EST)

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