Background Information – Job-specific
UNOPS is an operational arm of the United Nations helping a wide range of partners in delivering peace, security, humanitarian and development projects across the world.
UNOPS Sri Lanka implements tailored socio-economic development projects that benefit vulnerable people and supports the Government national capacities. UNOPS has been working across Sri Lanka managing education, public health, roads, water and sanitation, fisheries, agriculture and solid waste infrastructure projects. UNOPS also provides expertise in procurement, fund management and human resources management services.
As part of its advisory services, UNOPS works closely with members of the Sri Lankan civil society to provide them with skills, tools and training to support their work in assisting the people and communities of Sri Lanka. As part of this initiative to strengthen technical skills and capacities, the selected candidate will work closely with other team members of the programme. Under the direct supervision of the Programme Manager and technical guidance of the ICT colleagues the ICT Assistant (GIS) is responsible for efficient and effective geographic information management and support for the UNOPS Sri Lanka programme.
Under the direct supervision of the Programme Manager, the ICT Assistant will also support the design, operationalization, maintenance and update of the MIS platform through the provision necessary Geographical Information . S/he will also provide support and training to various partners and other stakeholders on the use of Geographic Information System (GIS).
This position is based in Batticaloa or in Mullaitivu with frequent travel to support UNOPS programmes in the country.
Functional Responsibilities
Summary of functions:
- Geographic Information System
- Management Information System
- Analysis and Reporting
- Communication
1. Geographic Information System (GIS)
- Understand data needs and output requirements by meeting with users and conducting research to obtain information related to the programme by collecting and analysing geo-localized information, programme documentation and evaluation materials, and researching any other documents archives to better understand the programme, its outputs, achievements, and impact on communities
- Assist in collecting, storing, analysing and presenting geographical and spatial information using GIS systems, to support the design, development and implementation of activities under the UNOPS Sri Lanka Programme
- Assist the visualization of the key results and impact of grants and services using GIS mapping to be used/published in the MIS platform, websites, reports, communication materials, and on any other documentation/presentation as needed
- Assist ICT Associate (GIS) based in Colombo in design, development and implementation of activities related to GIS including relevant aspects of research design, support in designing data collection tools, leading on geographical sampling, ensuring data quality, geo-spatial analysis and drafting of maps with the use of GIS software, tools and technique to support UNOPS Sri Lanka Programme.
- Undertake desk-based data capture (digitising) to convert paper maps to GIS datasets where relevant.
- Use tools to join together different GIS datasets and create new information and/or investigate patterns
- Assist in creation and maintenance of partners, team members and other stakeholder as and when required, based on instructions provided by the Programme Manager
- Assist in set up and maintenance of national-level mapping of all programme related activities as required, showing the GPS coordinates of communities supported, details of projects undertaken, beneficiary numbers etc
2. Management Information System
- Support the design and implementation of an analytical framework for the MIS platform in relation to capturing, storing, analysing and visaualising geographic information .
- Populate the MIS platform with Geographic data as collected for the activities of the UNOPS Sri Lanka Programme.
- Provide quality control and data verification function for all geographic data entered into the MIS platform
- Support regular reviews and as needed revising the MIS operational and user manual to ensure improved data capture, analysis and visualisation with regard to geographic information related to UNOPS Sri Lanka Peace Building Programme
- As needed organize and deliver ongoing support and training to users on the capture, management and use of geographical information.
3. Analysis and Reporting
- Support with the facilitation of all the Geographical Information required to generate analytical reports for the PIU, the Funding Partner, Project teams and M&E Community of Practice, including Value For Money analysis, GIS maps for projects, and summary highlights for communications.
- Support the M&E team to ensure project data is appropriately represented in internal (monthly, bi-annual and annual reports) and external reporting (public communication about project results and impact, and for the use at the independent evaluation of the programme. .
- Ensure GIS databases/MIS platform encompass all reporting requirements of UNOPS Sri Lanka Peace Building Programme.
- Produce GIS maps and geographical information analysis for incident reports
- Provide inputs and support analysis of geographical information to see trends and highlights of programme results and contextual changes.
4. Communication
- Collaborate with the UNOPS Communications Team in the elaboration of projects communication and visibility strategy and implementation line that is in line with donors and UNOPS guidelines.
- Provide support to ensure that all communication material, press and digital, include verified geographical data prior to publication
- Support Civil Society partners in visualising their project activities/ impacts using GIS mapping; as and when required with the instructions of the Programme Manager
Impact of Results The effective and successful achievement of key results by the ICT Assistant directly affects the overall efficiency and effectiveness of the relevant business unit/project, in ICT management, impacting the timely and effective implementation of the respective services and deliverables. This ensures client satisfaction and promotes the image and credibility of UNOPS as an effective service provider in project services and management. This enhances UNOPS’ competitive position as a partner of choice in sustainable development and project services in the country/region served.
Competencies
Treats all individuals with respect; responds sensitively to differences and encourages others to do the same. Upholds organizational and ethical norms. Maintains high standards of trustworthiness. Role model for diversity and inclusion.
Acts as a positive role model contributing to the team spirit. Collaborates and supports the development of others.
Demonstrates understanding of the impact of own role on all partners and always puts the end beneficiary first. Builds and maintains strong external relationships and is a competent partner for others.
Efficiently establishes an appropriate course of action for self and/or others to accomplish a goal. Actions lead to total task accomplishment through concern for quality in all areas. Sees opportunities and takes the initiative to act on them. Understands that responsible use of resources maximizes our impact on our beneficiaries.
Open to change and flexible in a fast paced environment. Effectively adapts own approach to suit changing circumstances or requirements. Reflects on experiences and modifies own behavior. Performance is consistent, even under pressure. Always pursues continuous improvements.
Evaluates data and courses of action to reach logical, pragmatic decisions. Takes an unbiased, rational approach with calculated risks. Applies innovation and creativity to problem-solving.
Expresses ideas or facts in a clear, concise and open manner. Communication indicates a consideration for the feelings and needs of others. Actively listens and proactively shares knowledge. Handles conflict effectively, by overcoming differences of opinion and finding common ground.
Education/Experience/Language requirements
Education
- Completion of Secondary education is required.
- Diploma or University Degree, preferably in GIS, geography or earth science, information sciences, computer sciences , engineering and/or in related areas is desirable.
Experience
- A minimum of 1 year of progressively responsible support experience in the field of GIS, geo-localized statistics, information gathering and analysis and/or in related areas, preferably in an international environment.
- Experience of GIS systems and tools such as ArcGIS, QGIS is required;
- Experience in Satellite Imageries processing is desirable
- Experience in the usage of computers and office software applications (for e.g. Google Suite, Microsoft Office applications).
Language
- Full working knowledge of English is required.
- Knowledge of Tamil is required.
Contract type, level and duration
Contract type: Individual Contractor Agreement Contract level: Local ICA Support Contract duration: Open-ended, subject to organizational requirements, availability of funds and satisfactory performance The position is only open to Sri Lankan nationals For more details about the ICA contractual modality, please follow this link:
https://www.unops.org/english/Opportunities/job-opportunities/what-we-offer/Pages/Individual-Contractor-Agreements.aspxAdditional Information
- Please note that UNOPS does not accept unsolicited resumes.
- Applications received after the closing date will not be considered.
- Please note that only shortlisted candidates will be contacted and advance to the next stage of the selection process, which involves various assessments.
- UNOPS embraces diversity and is committed to equal employment opportunity. Our workforce consists of many diverse nationalities, cultures, languages, races, gender identities, sexual orientations, and abilities. UNOPS seeks to sustain and strengthen this diversity to ensure equal opportunities as well as an inclusive working environment for its entire workforce.
- Qualified women and candidates from groups which are underrepresented in the UNOPS workforce are encouraged to apply. These include in particular candidates from racialized and/or indigenous groups, members of minority gender identities and sexual orientations, and people with disabilities.
- We would like to ensure all candidates perform at their best during the assessment process. If you are shortlisted and require additional assistance to complete any assessment, including reasonable accommodation, please inform our human resources team when you receive an invitation.
Terms and Conditions
- For staff positions only, UNOPS reserves the right to appoint a candidate at a lower level than the advertised level of the post.
- For retainer contracts, you must complete a few Mandatory Courses (they take around 4 hours to complete) in your own time, before providing services to UNOPS. For more information on a retainer contract here.
- All UNOPS personnel are responsible for performing their duties in accordance with the UN Charter and UNOPS Policies and Instructions, as well as other relevant accountability frameworks. In addition, all personnel must demonstrate an understanding of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in a manner consistent with UN core values and the UN Common Agenda.
- It is the policy of UNOPS to conduct background checks on all potential personnel. Recruitment in UNOPS is contingent on the results of such checks.
