GIS Expert – Informal Settlement Case study Syria

Project: Knowledge and Advocacy support for Safeguarding HLP Rights in Syria 

Reports to: Project Manager / Research Officer 

Type: Freelance  

Honorary: Tender (please send a financial proposal) 

Location: Remote work

Starting Date: TBD

Number of positions: 1 

1. Background 

Syrbanism is a non-profit organisation based in Berlin, Germany that aims at simplifying the technical language of urban policies in Syria to become accessible to all non-expert citizens through provision of information and support for an informed decision-making for a more peaceful future for Syria. Syrbanism areas of actions include mainly information; research; policies analysis; advocacy support; knowledge sharing & networking; as well as urban alternatives and capacity building provision. These areas operate in different urban development sectors such as Sustainable Development; Housing Land and Property (HLP); Informality, Participatory Design; Rural/urban Politics; Heritage; Public space & Placemaking. 

1. Context 

Syrbanism developed a documentation report of one selected informal settlement in Damascus through mapping past and already ongoing changes on the ground, (e.g. history of the informal settlement, urban structures, land use, demography, Property status and tenure, and maps of destruction patterns). The study shall support the ongoing discourse and debate on the consideration of rights to return, restitution or compensation, housing rights and needs, and social cohesion in the future shape of Syrian cities.  

1. Position:  

Syrbanism is seeking a GIS Expert to play a crucial role in our study on informal settlements in Syria. The GIS Expert, together with the research team, will be responsible for leveraging needed expertise to create detailed GIS maps, providing valuable insights into the spatial distribution, population density, and infrastructure of informal settlements. 

1. Deliverables: 

• Acquiring and processing relevant spatial data related to the studied\researched region including existing GIS database available from other researchers.  
• Creating/updating detailed GIS database for the studied\researched region (ca. 175 Hectar) including Informal/formal; void/solid; Land use; destruction patterns & violation patterns; building status; neighbourhoods; tenure system; vacancy ...etc. using QGIS or compatible alternative. The database should be derived as QGIS File in addition to all maps and layers as pdf.  
• Collaborating with the research team to ensure the accuracy and relevance of spatial data; minimum 2 reviews are required.  
• A detailed report outlining the methodology, data sources, and key findings related to the GIS mapping; potential risks and challenges, Set of recommendation for sustainability of the system and possibilities of update processes  

1. Qualifications: 

• Master degree in GIS or a related discipline (Geography, Geomatics, Environmental Engineering, Environmental Sciences, urban studies); 
• At least 3 years of proven experience in geospatial analysis and mapping, specifically in conflict-affected or hard-to-reach areas; 
• Extensive knowledge of and experience with GIS software and map generation tools. (ex: QGIS); 
• Familiarity with data collection and processing in the context of informal settlements; 
• Familiarity with HLP and informal settlement topics an asset; 
• Prior knowledge about the region (Syria) an asset; 
• Fluency in English. Fluency in Arabic is a plus; 
• Familiarity with Microsoft Office programs; 
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a team. 

1. Duration and Remuneration: 

The position is freelance, with an estimated duration of 1-2 months. Remuneration will be based on deliverables. The ability to provide an invoice + having a bank account is necessary. 

1. Application Process: 

Interested candidates are invited to submit the following document to [ Hello@syrbanism.com ] by 7th of May 2024: 

• Updated CVs  
• Relevant experience / cover letter
• Technical offer that includes: 
• Proposed work plan  
• Proposed implementation approach 
• Financial offer in Euros with a detailed breakdown of costs in accordance with tasks and functions. 

Syrbanism will review all applications and shortlist candidates for interviews. The selected trainer will be notified within 2\3 weeks from time of application and will commence work in May 2024. 

Syrbanism is an equal opportunity employer. We encourage applications from candidates of all backgrounds and experiences.