Position: Earth Observation Thematic Assistant
Organization: IGAD Climate Predictions and Applications Centre - ICPAC
Project: Global Monitoring for Environment and Security in Africa (GMES and Africa)
Grade: Consultant
Duration: 12 months with possibility of extension based on performance and funds availability Location: ICPAC HQ, Ngong - Kenya
Start date: ASAP

IGAD Climate Prediction and Applications Centre (ICPAC) is the Regional Climate Centre for Eastern Africa providing climate services to 11 countries. ICPAC is a specialized institution of IGAD with the mission of fostering climate services and knowledge to enhance community resilience for prosperity in the region.

ICPAC under the GMES & Africa project seeks the services of an Earth Observation Thematic Assistant consultant to support the project activities. The consultant will be responsible for providing expertise on earth observation thematic areas such as land use, rangelands, agriculture, forestry, water resources, disaster management, climate change, and other relevant areas. The consultant will work closely with project manager, technical experts, EO developers and partners to develop geospatial applications and services that enhance the use of Earth Observation data and products to support decision makers and other stakeholders make informed decisions.

Scope of Work

The scope of this consultancy is to:

1) Provide technical expertise on earth observation thematic areas and related technologies, including remote sensing, GIS, and data analysis.

2) Conduct analysis and assessments on earth observation thematic areas to inform decision making process.

3) Use of EO data to develop applications related to natural habitats, tropical forests and rangeland;

4) Development and operationalisation of the natural habitats, forest and rangelands monitoring service in the Eastern Africa region;

5) Develop and implement earth observation-related projects and programs, including identifying potential partners, preparing project proposals, and managing project implementation.

6) Support the development and implementation of capacity-building activities of the GMES and Africa ICPAC consortium and other related to earth observation thematic areas for project partners and stakeholders.

7) Participate in technical working groups, conferences, and other relevant fora to share knowledge and expertise on earth observation ICPAC thematic areas.

8) Monitor and evaluate project activities related to GMES and Africa thematic areas, including assessing impact and identifying opportunities for improvement.

9) Contribute to the development of reports, publications, and other knowledge products related to earth observation thematic areas.

Minimum Qualifications and Experience

Education:
● Master's degree in a relevant field, such as earth observation, Geo-Information,

Geographic Information Systems, Remote Sensing, environmental sciences, geography, or related disciplines.

● At least 5 years of relevant professional experience in earth observation thematic areas, including remote sensing, GIS, and data analysis.

● Proven experience in the design and implementation of earth observation-related projects and programs.

● Strong analytical skills, with the ability to conduct research and analysis on complex issues related to earth observation thematic areas especially on forests, natural habitats and rangelands.

● Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively in a team and with partners from diverse backgrounds.

● Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English. Knowledge in other languages, particularly French, is an asset.

● Knowledge of IGAD and Eastern Africa region issues and experience is desirable. How to Apply
Interested candidates are encouraged to apply via email (Hard copies will not be accepted) with subject line ‘‘Application for EO Thematic assistant – GMES & Africa”. Applications should be received by close of business on 9th May 2023. Include an expression of interest, curriculum vitae, stating relevant achievements and illustrating capacity to undertake the work to the following Address: procurement@icpac.net and gmes-ea@icpac.net . Only shortlisted companies/candidates will be contacted.