Geographic Information System (GIS) Officer

About the Organization

The Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) is a U.S.-based nonprofit established in 1895 focused on preserving wildlife and natural habitats through science-backed conservation strategies. Operating in over 60 countries, WCS has helped establish more than 150 protected areas globally. Their work involves collaboration with local communities to manage species, habitats, and ecosystems sustainably.

In Nigeria, WCS has been active since 2001, protecting endangered species like the Cross River gorilla and forest and savannah elephants while improving community livelihoods and access to water, sanitation, and hygiene services in Cross River and Bauchi States.

Position Overview

The GIS Officer role supports the Nigerian program by managing spatial data, providing mapping services, and conducting analyses to enhance biodiversity monitoring, law enforcement, and conservation planning within the WCS Yankari landscape and possibly across Nigeria.

This full-time position, based in Yankari, Bauchi State, reports to the Biomonitoring Coordinator and offers a fixed-term contract of 13 months renewable based on funding availability.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist ranger and community teams in gathering accurate GPS data during patrols and ecological surveys.
• Manage spatial databases ensuring proper validation, storage, and integration of field data.
• Update and maintain GIS layers covering species distribution, patrol routes, habitat status, and threat mapping.
• Create maps and conduct spatial analyses to support enforcement, monitoring, conservation planning, and community projects.
• Analyze spatial information from patrols and wildlife observations using GIS tools, and validate remote sensing data for integration into conservation approaches.
• Train field personnel on GPS device usage, data collection methods, and fundamental GIS applications.
• Provide technical assistance for SMART or similar patrol monitoring systems and contribute to developing spatial dashboards and tools.
• Prepare spatial data inputs for donor reports, technical briefs, and presentations, documenting GIS workflows and sharing learnings internally.

Candidate Profile

• Bachelor’s degree in Geography, GIS, Environmental Science, or related disciplines; Master’s degree is a plus.
• At least three years of experience managing GIS and spatial data, ideally within conservation contexts.
• Proficient with GIS software such as ArcGIS and QGIS, as well as GPS technology.
• Experience using SMART or comparable conservation monitoring platforms is advantageous.
• Knowledgeable in remote sensing and spatial data analysis techniques.
• Detail-oriented with strong skills in data accuracy and management.
• Effective at training others and mentoring field staff.
• Excellent communication skills, including report writing.
• Able to operate efficiently in remote and challenging environments.
• Team-player with strong collaboration skills across technical and field teams.

Additional Requirements

• Fluent in English, both written and spoken; familiarity with local languages is beneficial.
• Preparedness to travel frequently to various field sites as necessary.
• Demonstrated passion for wildlife conservation and engaging with local communities.

Benefits and Work Environment

• Access to a global network of expertise and supportive teams.
• A collaborative workplace valuing contributions and ideas from all members.
• Meaningful opportunity to significantly impact biodiversity conservation.
• Pathways for professional development and career growth.
• A supportive culture emphasizing respect, teamwork, and excellence.
• Competitive salary and benefits.
• Unique chance to work closely with nature and wildlife.

Additional Information

This position is only open to Nigerian nationals. WCS is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity, inclusion, and gender equity. Candidates should be aware that no fees are required to apply for this role.