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Position title:
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GIS and Database Specialist
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Reports to:
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Conservation Governance Coordinator
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Country Program/Sector:
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WCS Mongolia Program
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Location:
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Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia
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Position type:
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Full-time
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Expected travel
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Travel to work in other work locations, districts, and provinces as required and at times can be at short notice and for extended periods.
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ORGANIZATION BACKGROUND:
The Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS), a US-based non-profit organization founded in 1895, is dedicated to safeguarding wildlife and wild places through science-driven solutions and impactful conservation actions. With over 125 years of experience, WCS operates in more than 60 nations and has been instrumental in the establishment and management of over 150 protected areas worldwide. Guided by deep biological expertise and collaborative partnerships, WCS expanded its mission to Mongolia in 2003, officially registering its office in the capital, Ulaanbaatar, to support conservation efforts across the region.
MONGOLIA PROGRAM OVERVIEW:
Established in Ulaanbaatar in 2003, WCS Mongolia has dedicated over two decades to the conservation of Mongolia’s rich wildlife and expansive landscapes. The organization focuses on science-driven, landscape-level conservation, with key efforts in the Southern Gobi and Eastern Steppe, alongside emerging initiatives in Central Mongolia. In addition to regional projects, WCS Mongolia engages in national-level conservation efforts, collaborating with governments, communities, NGOs, and industries to promote biodiversity preservation, landscape connectivity, and sustainable resource management. In 2024, WCS Mongolia launched a five-year strategy focused on three key pillars: enhancing ecological function, strengthening landscape connectivity, and building resilience to climate change. These pillars guide the organization’s work, with the overarching vision of ensuring Mongolia’s ecological integrity for future generations.
JOB SUMMARY:
The GIS and Database Specialist will manage, analyze, and present spatial and project-related data to support WCS Mongolia’s conservation programs. The role includes maintaining geospatial and database systems, managing SMART patrol datasets, producing maps and data products for conservation planning and monitoring, and providing technical support and training. This position requires strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work independently and as part of a team. Based within the WCS Governance Team, the Specialist will work closely across all program teams and with external partners to ensure accurate, accessible, and secure data management across key project areas in Mongolia.
MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES:
- GIS and Spatial Data Management
- Maintain, strengthen, and manage spatial databases and GIS systems to organize and analyze geospatial data on land use, biodiversity, infrastructure, patrolling (SMART), and community resources.
- Support wider teams to add, manage, and update data from soums and aimags into national and project-specific databases (e.g., GALAGC’s integrated land management database, biodiversity dashboard under GEF-7), as well as SMART patrol datasets in coordination with the Governance Team.
- Support government agencies and partner organizations in developing and maintaining databases for project-related information, ensuring data integrity, accessibility, and security.
- Spatial Analysis and Mapping
- Provide spatial analysis support as needed for conservation planning, climate vulnerability assessments, SMART patrol data, and other monitoring efforts in coordination with WCS teams.
- Create high-quality maps, dashboards, and visual products to communicate spatial data, project progress, and conservation outcomes to stakeholders in an accessible and effective manner.
- Technical Capacity Building and Support
- Provide hands-on training and technical support to WCS staff, project partners, and local government counterparts in GIS software, database management, spatial analysis techniques, and SMART data management.
- Support SMART-related trainings for government staff and community rangers, helping to build capacity in data collection, management, and interpretation using SMART tools.
- Troubleshoot technical issues and offer practical solutions for database, GIS, and SMART-related challenges encountered during project implementation.
- Contribute to the development of user-friendly guides, manuals, or standard operating procedures for GIS, database, and SMART data management where appropriate.
- Project and Partner Support
- Work closely with the WCS Governance Team to align GIS, spatial data management, and SMART-based patrol data services with conservation priorities, supporting SMART data management, training, and reporting needs.
- Support the WCS Khangai Team, contributing to spatial data management, land assessments, and mapping in collaboration with government partners and project teams.
- Support the preparation of spatial data products, analyses, and visualizations for internal reporting, donor reports, and external communication for both South Gobi and Khangai projects.
- Engage with national stakeholders, government agencies, academic institutions, and NGOs to share data, methodologies, and tools, fostering collaborative conservation initiatives.
Minimum Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree (Master’s preferred) in GIS, Geography, Environmental Science, Conservation Science, or a related field.
- At least 3-5 years of professional experience in managing GIS systems, spatial analysis, and database management in a conservation, land management, or development context.
- Proficiency in GIS software (ArcGIS, QGIS) and database management systems.
- Strong skills in spatial analysis, map creation, and geodatabase management.
- Experience in providing training and technical support in GIS and database management.
- Ability to effectively manage multiple tasks and meet deadlines in a dynamic, multi-stakeholder environment.
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with working proficiency in both Mongolian and English preferred.
- Willingness to travel to field sites, including remote areas, as required.
APPLICATION PROCESS:
- Submit your 1) CV in English, 2) one-page cover letter in English explaining your interest in and suitability for this position, and 3) Diploma copies;
- The subject line of your email submission with “Application – GIS and Database Specialist” and interested applicants should submit the following btsolmon@wcs.org email address;
- Applications should be sent on or before 5:00pm UB time Friday 2nd May 2025. Late or incomplete applications will not be accepted;
- Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for an interview.
Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) Mongolia Program
201 San Business Center, Amar Street-29, Small ring road, Sukhbaatar district, Ulaanbaatar 14200, Mongolia.
Tel: +976-11-323719