GIS Developer and Analyst, SDGs Today

New York, NY, USA

ABOUT SDSN

The UN Sustainable Development Solutions Network (SDSN) has been operating since 2012 under the auspices of the UN Secretary-General. SDSN mobilizes global scientific and technological expertise to promote practical solutions for sustainable development, including the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the Paris Climate Agreement. We aim to accelerate joint learning and promote integrated approaches that address the interconnected economic, social, and environmental challenges confronting the world.

SDSN works closely with United Nations agencies, multilateral financing institutions, the private sector, and civil society. It is directed by Professor Jeffrey D. Sachs and operates through offices in New York, Paris, and Kuala Lumpur.

ABOUT SDGS TODAY

The SDSN launched SDGs Today in July 2020 at the High-Level Political Forum with support from Esri and the National Geographic Society. SDGs Today aims to advance the production and use of timely and geospatial data for the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The program encourages countries, institutions, and civil society members to produce, share and engage with new data sources to help ensure that we meet the Global Goals by 2030.

SDGs Today provides a snapshot of the state of sustainable development around the world. The team curates and produces accessible data products packaged in interactive formats that are accessible to a wide range of users and SDG stakeholders, and works with partners to share use cases and innovative projects through storytelling, to put a human face on quantitative data. SDGs Today also supports capacity development efforts and produces educational materials and programs that help integrate a data-driven approach into sustainability-related projects and research. 

BACKGROUND

SDGs Today is involved in various projects and work streams focused on non-traditional data sources, GIS-driven case studies, and educational and training programs. We collaborate closely with various stakeholder groups including national and local governments, universities, civil society organizations, and youth to curate and develop timely dashboards, provide GIS training to National Statistical Offices, advance developments in global gridded population data products, and enhance SDG reporting through GIS analysis and data partnerships.  

POSITION SUMMARY

The GIS Developer and Analyst would help with all aspects of GIS work: data evaluation and management, visualization and spatial analysis, GIS applications, GIS training, and working with the director on key geospatial questions related to the SDGs.  In short, the incumbent would work on all GIS activities of the SDGs Today program, as well as engage in any special themes of “GIS for the SDGs.” 

PRINCIPAL RESPONSIBILITIES

• Lead visualization and spatial analysis for datasets featured on SDGs Today
• Managing partnerships and collaborations with data providers
• Build APIs and enhance/automate dataset update processes
• Support internal and external capacity-building efforts, including developing and facilitating trainings
• Contribute to the curation and production of relevant datasets for SDGs Today
• Provide overall GIS support for SDGs Today projects
• Explore innovative methods of data collection, production, and modeling
• Troubleshoot data errors with data providers

QUALIFICATIONS, EDUCATION, AND EXPERIENCE

• 4+ years of experience in related fields
• Graduate degree in Geospatial Science, Geographic Information Systems, or related fields  
• Advanced skills in GIS (other data management skills are ideal)
• Deep familiarity and project experience with ArcGIS Pro and Python 
• Advanced skills in data development, spatial analysis, visualization, and modeling 
• Ability to prepare different types of geospatial data files and hosted data layers on ArcGIS Online
• Ability to publish data layers, maps, and dashboards via ArcGIS Online
• Ability to develop or work with the spatial database needed to support GIS-based analysis and models 
• Familiarity with Google Earth Engine and basic machine learning frameworks
• Basic understanding of geospatial data analysis and its application in AI-driven solutions
• Some experience in the creation of predictive models and automation systems is preferred 
• Strong organizational skills and efficient management of multiple tasks and priorities
• Ability to work effectively with a diverse group of stakeholders and team members
• Ability to adapt and effectively respond to challenging situations and deadlines

IMPORTANT INFORMATION

Location: The incumbent will have the opportunity to work remotely or be based at the SDSN office in New York.

Contract Length: March 1, 2025 - February 28, 2026

Salary Range: $75,000 - $85,000

Benefits: SDSN offers generous leave allowances and flexible, hybrid work policy. SDSN team members are given the opportunity to follow some of the most thought-provoking discussions on sustainability. In their work, team members get the opportunity to meet and exchange with some of the world’s greatest leaders in sustainable development – professors, economists, bestselling authors, educators, and academics. In addition to this, SDSN team is composed of brilliant, dynamic, sustainable development professionals that come from different countries and backgrounds. With such unique exposure and environment, each member of SDSN can learn and grow while doing the work they love and contribute with a positive impact.

Reports to: Director of the SDGs Today program

Travel: This position may require travel, depending on business needs. 

Work authorization: SDSN does not sponsor visas, and therefore applicants must have proper authorization to work in the United States. SDSN is required by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services to secure verification of eligibility to work in the United States.

SDSN IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

SDSN provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to unlawful considerations of race, color, creed, religion, gender, sex, national origin, ancestry, citizenship status, genetic information, military or veteran status, age, and physical or mental disability, or any other classification protected by applicable local, state, or federal laws.

APPLICATION PROCESS

Please apply via HR Partner. Please share your CV, Cover Letter, and portfolio or 1-2 samples of work that show proficiency in GIS analysis and ArcGIS.