GIS and Cartographic Design Analyst, Part-Time Remote

About the Company

The Center for Operational Analysis and Research (COAR) is an independent social enterprise that directly supports practitioners, policymakers, and donors by facilitating humanitarian and development interventions in complex, fragile, and high-risk environments. COAR's work relies on accurate, timely information and clear visual communication to guide decisions in challenging contexts.

Position Overview

COAR is seeking a part-time, day-rate GIS and Cartographic Design Analyst to provide flexible, on-demand mapping support for analytical briefs, situational reports, and contextual monitoring. This role sits within the Information Management (IM) team and focuses on spatial data management, cartographic styling, and vector map production. You will work alongside the IM Unit and the Graphic Design Unit, which handles overall report layouts, branding, and final document publication.

This is a 6-month contract with the possibility of extension. The position is based in Haiti or remote (Haiti or European timezone). You will report to the Information Management Coordinator / Haiti expert.

Qualifications

Required:

• University degree in GIS, Geography, Cartography, Information Management, Graphic Design, IT, or a related field.
• Minimum of 2 years of experience in GIS mapping, spatial data handling, or cartographic design within an INGO, UN agency, social enterprise, research institute, or news organization.
• Excellent proficiency in QGIS and/or ArcGIS, with a focus on vector layer management, attribute joining, labeling engine, and print layouts.
• Good experience using vector design software (e.g., Adobe Illustrator) to clean up and enhance map graphics.
• Solid understanding of vector data formats (Shapefiles, GeoJSON, KML) and structuring tabular GIS data (CSV/Excel from KoboToolbox or ODK).
• Clear knowledge of map projections, scale, legend design, color theory, and typographic hierarchy for maps.
• Fluency in English (written and spoken) and French is required.
• Ability to work smoothly across teams, particularly with research analysts and graphic designers.
• Ability to handle urgent requests and deliver outputs within tight deadlines.
• High willingness to occasionally work outside normal office hours when required.

Highly desirable:

• Familiarity with mapping conflict dynamics, population displacement, access barriers, or humanitarian context in fragile settings (e.g., Haiti or similar contexts).
• Knowledge of local languages such as Haitian Creole.

Responsibilities

In this role, you will:

• Create thematic vector maps for regular situational updates, access briefings, and in-depth research reports using QGIS or ArcGIS.
• Extract, clean, and convert raw GIS data (Excel/CSV coordinates, field surveys, open-source conflict logs) into GIS-ready layers.
• Use vector software (e.g., Adobe Illustrator) to refine map aesthetics, hierarchy, and labeling for maximum readability.
• Develop and maintain version control and metadata for COAR's spatial layers, administrative boundaries, baseline maps, and custom style templates focusing on Haiti.
• Apply strict cartographic rules regarding scale bars, map projections, labeling, data source citations, and legend clarity.
• Hand off finalized vector map graphics to the Graphic Design Unit for incorporation into report templates, ensuring all graphic design and layout alignment.
• Advise the team on spatial data feasibility, visual map ideas, and geographic context representation, including the development of map-based storytelling approaches that help explain complex scenarios, spatial relationships, and evolving dynamics in a clear and attractive way.

Key Deliverables

• Produce publication-ready vector maps (PDF, SVG, Ai, PNG, etc.) for scheduled and ad-hoc analytical briefs for Haiti and potentially for other country programmes.
• Maintain an updated, standardized spatial database (admin layers, baseline maps, etc.).
• Provide prepared GIS vector layers to support analysts and data visualization products.

Benefits

This is a part-time, day-rate contract offering flexible, on-demand work. You will have the opportunity to contribute to high-impact humanitarian and development work in complex environments, collaborating with a dedicated team of analysts and experts. The role allows for remote work within specified timezones.

How to Apply

Please note that shortlisted candidates will be required to complete a “Practical Assessment Test” as part of the recruitment process. To apply, submit your application through COAR's official recruitment channel. Ensure your application clearly demonstrates your experience with QGIS/ArcGIS, vector design, and humanitarian mapping.