Consultant as GIS Research Assistant (Sorong based)

The World Resources Institute is hiring a GIS Research Assistant based in Sorong, West Papua, to support spatial analysis, landscape research, and stakeholder engagement. The role involves GIS analysis related to forests and land use, data management, and outreach with local stakeholders. Candidates need a relevant degree, GIS proficiency, and experience in environmental research. The position requires frequent travel and is not remote.
Program Overview

WRI Indonesia supports the government, private sector, and communities in Indonesia to reduce GHG emissions through better management of forests, land use, business operations, and livelihoods. The organization uses technology, research, and multi-stakeholder approaches to develop tools, methodologies, and data for sustainable development. WRI Indonesia aims to transform land use planning to be more inclusive and sustainable, focusing on ecosystem governance, climate goals, and community livelihoods.

Within the Food, Land, and Water Program, the focus is on safeguarding forests and peatlands, restoring ecosystems, and promoting sustainable land use. The organization collaborates with government, private sector, and civil society to mainstream ethical supply chains and support land rights for forest-dependent communities.

The program supports the development of regional spatial plans, especially in Papua, to maintain forest cover, verify customary territories, and promote low-carbon development. The goal is to build a movement among government agencies, companies, NGOs, and communities for sustainable land management.

Job Highlight

The GIS Research Assistant will support spatial analysis, landscape research, and stakeholder engagement in Papua. The position reports to the Research and GIS Analyst and works with the regional team based in Sorong, Southwest Papua. The role involves office-flex work and travel as needed, with a focus on integrating equity into the work.

What You Will Do

Research (60%)
• Support GIS analysis on Papua’s forest and land use, including participatory mapping, indigenous territories, land suitability, supply chains, and land change models.
• Assist in data sharing, mapping, and database management across workstreams.
• Support development of dashboards for the Papua team.
• Support data collection, analysis, presentation, and reporting.
• Collaborate on knowledge products and communication materials.

Data Collection and Analysis
• Analyze collected data following research design, focusing on landscape analysis.
• Manage data repositories and archives for the project and team.

Stakeholder Engagement and Outreach (40%)
• Build and maintain relationships with stakeholders such as universities, local governments, and communities.
• Participate in discussions, meetings, and conferences.
• Identify new stakeholders to expand engagement.

What You Will Need
• Bachelor's degree in geography, forestry, remote sensing, environmental studies, or related field.
• At least 2 years of experience in environmental research and spatial analysis.
• Proficiency in GIS software, preferably QGIS.
• Experience with programming languages like GEE and RStudio is an advantage.
• Knowledge of forest monitoring platforms such as Global Forest Watch.
• Experience with research frameworks, baseline studies, and data collection methods.
• Experience working with rural communities and stakeholders.
• Good communication skills in Indonesian; English is a plus.
• Willingness to travel frequently and be based in Sorong, Southwest Papua.
• Legal eligibility to work in Indonesia.

Deliverables

Monthly reports including achievements, progress, lessons learned, maps, landscape analysis, data, and outreach activities.

Duration

June 1, 2025 – December 31, 2025.

Terms of Payment

Daily rate-based consultancy for up to 126 days over the contract period, with an average of 18 days per month. Individual, limited-term contract.

What We Offer
• Competitive consultant rate.
• Travel insurance for domestic and international travel.
• Access to WRI global network.
• Workplace committed to diversity and inclusion.

Application Process

Submit an updated resume and cover letter via the WRI career portal. Application deadline: May 28, 2025, 17:00 Jakarta time. Early applications encouraged. Indonesian nationals are strongly encouraged to apply.

About WRI

WRI is a global research organization focused on environment, economic opportunity, and human well-being. Founded in 1982, it has offices worldwide and works with leaders to address climate change, energy, forests, water, and more. WRI values integrity, innovation, urgency, independence, and respect. WRI is committed to gender and social equity, and promotes diversity in its workforce. WRI Indonesia, established in 2014, supports sustainable policies and management in Indonesia.