GIS Specialist at The West African Centre for Public Health and Development (WACPHD)

Job Purpose/Job Objective

• The GIS Specialistis responsiblefor leveraging geographicinformation systems(GIS) to providespatial insightsand support decision-making for theorganization's public healthprograms.
• They will developand maintaincomprehensiveGIS databases, perform advanced spatial analysis, and create high-quality mapsand visualizations tocommunicate spatialtrends and patterns.

Roles And Key Responsibilities

• Develop and maintain comprehensive geographic information systems (GIS) databases, including the collection, organization, and management of spatial data relevant to the organization's public health programs
• Perform advanced spatial analysis, such as mapping, spatial modeling, spatial optimization, and spatial epidemiology, to support program objectives and decision-making
• Collaborate closely with program teams to identify geospatial data needs and design appropriate data collection and analysis approaches
• Create high-quality maps, dashboards, and other data visualizations to effectively communicate spatial insights and trends to diverse stakeholders (e.g. program managers, donors, and government officials)
• Stay up-to-date with the latest GIS technologies, methodologies, and best practices in the public health domain, and incorporate innovative approaches into the organization's work
• Provide technical guidance and support to program teams on the use of GIS tools and spatial analysis techniques

Qualification / Experience
Essential qualification:

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Geographic Information Systems, Geography, or a related field
• Minimum 5-7 years of experience in GIS data management, analysis, and visualization, with a strong focus on public health or development applications
• Proficiency in advanced GIS software (e.g. ArcGIS, QGIS) and data visualization tools
• Demonstrated expertise in the application of spatial analysis methods to address complex public health challenges
• Excellent problem-solving, critical thinking, and communication skills, with the ability to translate technical information for non-technical audiences
• Deep understanding of public health data ecosystems, spatial data standards, and ethical considerations around data use
• Experience working in a multicultural, international environment is highly desirable.