GIS Project Manager (GMG/SEG 3)

Job Purpose

The GIS Project Manager initiates, leads, and oversees GIS programmes and projects. This role involves evaluating GIS proposals for implementation, providing technical and Project management support to Government entities on GIS database and systems design, and assisting in policy and technical guideline development for GIS and related technology systems. They play a key role in implementing and monitoring these systems, ensuring their alignment with the National Spatial Data Management Branch (NSDMB) objectives and standards. 

Key Responsibilities

Management/Administrative: 

• Co-ordinates relevant meetings, workshops, and conferences for the Branch and Ministry;
• Assist in developing the Branch’s Strategic Business and Operational Plans, Quarterly and Annual Reports and Budget; 
• Assesses and advocates for the integration of new GIS technologies; 
• Enhances Branch and organizational effectiveness and efficiency; 
• Assists in preparing policies and guidelines for GIS design, implementation, and management; 
• Contributes to preparing Cabinet Notes and Submissions, Ministry Papers and Speeches;
• Provides educational and technical support to selected schools through mentorship programmes when necessary; 
• Provides support to the design and delivery of LICJ Courses. 

Technical/Professional: 

• Researches and identifies potential donors and funding sources to support the National Spatial Data Infrastructure (NSDI) and other GIS projects proactively; 
• Offers expert advice and technical assistance to the Land Information Council of Jamaica (LICJ) members in preparing GIS and related project proposals; 
• Evaluates and provides recommendations on GIS project proposals prepared by LICJ members Critically. 
• Develops and presents tailored demonstrations and presentations based on specific project requirements; 
• Assists in creating, modifying, and overseeing guidelines for implementing and utilizing GIS tools in national and agency-specific systems; 
• Identifies opportunities for special GIS projects within the LICJ community and prepare comprehensive proposals for these initiatives; 
• Provides technical assistance and serve as a key consultant for designing, developing, and establishing GIS systems for special support projects; 
• Conducts requirements analysis and design for geodatabases and interfaces, including custom development and integration using ESRI APIs; 
• Assists in reviewing and monitoring GIS projects and programmes to ensure alignment with existing systems and national objectives; 
• Develops strategies, processes and policies to facilitate spatial data access, management, and integration; 
• Recommends and assists in developing strategies and proposals for system modernization, resource identification, and solving system management issues;
• Acts as a liaison with Government Agencies, Statutory Bodies, NGOs, the Private Sector, and International Technical Groups for feedback on implementing and using GIS and related technologies. 

Project Management and Co-ordination: 

• Develops Project Plans that align with stakeholders' interests and requirements;
• Ensures that GIS projects align with the Organization's Strategic and Business Plans;
• Implements monitoring and evaluation frameworks that track project performance and evaluate impact and ROI; 
• Adapts project strategies based on stakeholder feedback and guidelines, optimizing project execution for successful funding outcomes; 
• Oversees the preparation and maintenance of detailed documentation for funding applications, ensuring compliance with donor standards; 
• Develops the capacity within the Team for effective Project Management by the requirements of stakeholders and Funding Agencies; 
• Establishes and maintains strategic relationships with stakeholders, understanding their evolving needs and priorities. 

Human Resource: 

• Contributes to developing and implementing the Succession Planning Framework in collaboration with the Human Resource Branch by developing procedural manuals and other duties prescribed within the framework; 
• Prepares and conducts presentations on the role of the Branch in the onboarding process. 

Required Knowledge, Skills and Competencies

Core: 

• Ability to work effectively in teams with a wide range of GIS stakeholders in a diverse community (team-building skills) 
• Excellent problem-solving and decision-making skills 
• Excellent oral and written communication skills 
• Strong interpersonal skills 

Technical: 

• Expertise in managing the entire GIS project lifecycle, encompassing initiation, planning, execution, monitoring, and closure, focusing on GIS-specific methodologies and best practices 
• Experience with agile project management methodologies, demonstrating flexibility and adaptability in dynamic project environments 
• Knowledge of GIS concepts and applications such as Web GIS, GPS technology, and sector-specific GIS applications (e.g., urban planning, environmental management, utility management) 
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office suite and project management software.
• Competency in data analysis, statistical techniques, and visualization tools like Tableau and Power BI. Ability to translate complex GIS data into actionable insights
• Familiarity with programming languages and frameworks essential for GIS, including Python, JavaScript, .NET (ASP.NET, VB.NET, C#), XML, Java, HTML, and CSS
• Expert Proficiency in configuring, using, and managing the latest ESRI Software Suite (including ArcGIS Desktop, ArcGIS Pro, ArcGIS Online, and ArcGIS Server) and experience with relevant databases (Oracle, SQL Server, PostgreSQL) 
• Familiarity with GIS Software Development Kits (SDKs) and APIs 
• Familiarity with Cloud Computing Platforms (AWS, Azure) and knowledge of web-based GIS platforms like ArcGIS Online 
• Awareness of emerging technologies in GIS, such as machine learning, AI, and integration in GIS, and their applications in spatial data analysis and decision-making processes 

Minimum Required Qualification and Experience

• Bachelor’s Degree in GIS or related Spatial Science with advanced training in Information Systems Project Design Implementation and Management; 
• Five (5) years of experience as a GIS Manager with wide knowledge and proven success managing GIS development and implementation at the project and enterprise levels;
• Certificate in Principles of Project Management or equivalent training in Project Life Cycle Management and Co-ordination.

Please note that only shortlisted applicants will be contacted.