Consultant geospatial developer

UNISDR/C/22/2014

United Nations Core Values:
Integrity ● Professionalism ● Respect for diversity

Background:

Created in December 1999, the United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction and secretariat of the International Strategy for Disaster Reduction (UNISDR) is the designated focal point in the United Nations system for the coordination of disaster reduction and to ensure synergies among the disaster reduction activities of the United Nations and regional organizations and activities in socio-economic and humanitarian fields. Led by the United Nations Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Disaster Risk Reduction, UNISDR has around 100 staff located in its HQ in Geneva, Switzerland, and 5 regional offices and other field presences. Specifically, UNISDR coordinates international efforts in disaster risk reduction, and guides, monitors and reports on the progress of the implementation of the Hyogo Framework for Action; campaigns to create global awareness of disaster risk reduction benefits and empower people to reduce their vulnerability to hazards; advocates for greater investments in disaster risk reduction to protect people's lives and assets, and for increased and informed participation of men and women in reducing disaster risk; and informs and connects people by providing practical services and tools such as Prevention Web, publications on good practices, and by leading the preparation of the Global Assessment Report on Disaster Risk Reduction and the organisation of the Global Platform for Disaster Risk Reduction.

Organizational Setting and Reporting Relationships:

The Consultant will work under the direct supervision and report to the UNISDR-IMU Senior Information Management Officer, in collaboration with other IMU colleagues and the UNISDR Communications Unit.

Duties and Responsibilities:

Accountabilities: Within limits of delegated authority, the Geospatial Developer will be responsible for the following duties:

- Develops a project and technical plan for the integration of Mapbox software in the redesigned PreventionWeb.net website

- Liaises with internal technical and content management staff in the design and development of mapping features for the PreventionWeb site, including the integration of a map viewer, development of JavaScript code, integration and testing of map views of PreventionWeb documents and data

- Development of new web mapping applications and enhancement of existing applications both for internal and external use.

- Liaises with visual designers and other design consultants and ensures delivery of consistent design patterns for UNISDR web projects.

Work implies frequent interaction with the following:

Program Officers and other information management specialists throughout the UNISDR, other UN agencies, Government offices, Universities and NGOs. Information management staff and managers in user offices and other user clients, including external users (e.g. governments, international organizations, etc.).

Results Expected:

Develop embedded geospatial mapping views of PreventionWeb data and information including the implementation of scaling and filtering options.

Competencies:

• Professionalism - Strong background and substantial experience in Geospatial Development, particularly with large and complex web applications. Knowledge of disaster management and international development is an asset.

• Client Orientation - Ability to identify and analyze clients' needs and develop appropriate technology to meet business requirements.

• Communications - Strong communication (spoken and written) skills, including the ability to advise and train users in the use of complex software systems and related matters and effectively prepare specifications and other written reports documentation in a clear, concise style.

• Teamwork - Strong interpersonal skills and ability to establish and maintain effective partnerships and working relations with people in a multi-cultural, multi-ethnic environment with sensitivity and respect for diversity.

Qualifications:

Education: University degree in Communications, Information systems, or other related field; or the equivalent combination of technical education and experience in GIS, mapping and data visualization.

Experience:

• 5 years progressive work experience in areas of Geospatial Development
• Knowledge and some professional experience in the field of disaster risk reduction climate change, and/or sustainable development is an asset;
• Excellent analytical and communication skills;

Language: Excellent English speaking and writing skills; working knowledge of French or Spanish is an asset.