Marine Spatial Analyst, GRID-Arendal

The ideal candidate is a proficient networker with top quality interpersonal, organizational and team-oriented skills, who can apply innovative and forward thinking approaches to the development of GA’s marine strategy focusing on developing states and small island developing states. Activity areas for this position are primarily (but not exclusively) focused on the following thematic areas: deep ocean benthic environment and resource management, spatial planning within national jurisdictions and the use, visualization and management of data necessary for sound decision making. An overall aim involves promoting to the general public and decision makers the value of the environment and its ecosystems.

Competencies are sought according to specific fields of expertise and reflect the various needs primarily of the Marine Programme.

Thematic competencies to be considered are linked to:

• Marine ecosystem-based management and spatial planning (emphasis on seabed and deep ocean settings)
• Marine environmental economics (ecosystem valuation, bio-economics)

Technical competencies required:

• Proficiency in the use and application of ESRI ArcGIS software suite

Additional technical competencies that would be an advantage:

• Proficiency in the use and application of spatial planning decision-support tools (e.g. MARXAN)
• Knowledge of the GeoIQ web-based GIS platform (www.geocommons.com) an asset

GRID-Arendal is an environmental outreach organization that seeks to bridge the gap between science and society. Our activities are aligned with UNEP’s Programme of Work with the Marine Programme cooperating closely with the Marine and Coastal Ecosystem Branch and other parts of UNEP dealing with marine issues. We are a team-based organization operating in a dynamic and evolving structure. Teams provide core groups of expertise dedicated to meeting the goals of each programmatic area.

The position will be based in Arendal, Norway. The candidate will report directly to the Head of Marine Programme.

Responsibilities and tasks:

Initial tasks and responsibilities will be based on relevant activities of the Marine Programme that are currently in progress and/or under development. Additional relevant activities of the Polar and Cryosphere and Capacity Building and Assessment Programmes would be included on a case by case basis. The candidate will initially be expected to support the following efforts:

• Spatial analysis in support of marine and land based activities of GRID-Arendal
• Support the development of a global geomorphic seafloor habitat map
• Support the development of the marine GeoIQ-based data sharing and visualization system
• Support GRID-Arendal data efforts linked to the UN Regular Process for global reporting and assessment of the state of the marine environment
• Support to the Global Ocean Biodiversity Initiative
• Support to projects and activities related to spatial conservation within and beyond national jurisdiction

The candidate will in time be expected to develop, plan, lead and implement new activities in line with GRID-Arendal’s marine strategy and support other project leads when relevant. The candidate will also be encouraged to pursue fundraising activities when deemed relevant to core goals.

Preferred professional qualifications:

• Master degree or equivalent/higher in Marine ecosystem management, Marine Spatial Analysis and/or Marine environmental economics or related fields;
• Minimum of 3 years international experience in at least one of the following: UN system, corporate organization, NGO or government agency;
• Fluency in written and spoken English, with editing experience.
• Additional language skills would be an advantage;
• Established network of contacts in support of the aforementioned goals would be a great asset;
• Good organizational and project management skills;
• Excellent interpersonal, communication, and presentation skills; 
• Knowledge about the UN system/international organizations;
• Experience with media outreach in the NGO sector and development fields is an advantage.

Preferred personal qualifications:

• Excellent team player and ability to work independently;
• High motivation and energy;
• Ability to pursue multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment and consistently meet deadlines;
• Excellent networking capabilities and diplomatic skills;
• Interpersonal skills and ability to work in an international and culturally diverse environment.

Compensation:

GRID-Arendal’s salary system is linked to the Norwegian Government salary system. It is based on education and experience. Salaries are subject to Norwegian tax regulations. Insurance and personal benefits are provided in addition to salary. International staff receives additional benefits.

Deadline for applications: October 21, 2011

Application should include a cover letter and curriculum vitae. Please send your application by email to:Luana Karvel, Personnel Manager (no specific application form to be filled in.)

For further information about the position, please contact Yannick Beaudoin, Head of Marine Programme.