Geographical Information Systems (GIS) and Monitoring Intern, Kigali

Position Title:
Geographical Information Systems (GIS) & Monitoring Intern

Division:
Conservation Programs

Supervisor:
Program Manager, Rwanda

Matrix Management:
N/A

Supervises:
N/A

Duration
12 Months

Location:
Kigali, Rwanda, with frequent travel to Volcanoes Landscape

Job Summary
AWF Rwanda is expanding its geospatial capabilities with the simultaneous deployment of five online decision-support-based platforms in FY2027 to support agile adaptive conservation management and impact and ecological monitoring across the Volcanoes National Park (VNP) landscape. These platforms incorporate cutting-edge technologies, including mobile field data collection, AI-based data analysis, eDNA-based biodiversity monitoring, and remote sensing for landscape-level ecological assessment. The GIS & Monitoring Intern will bridge the gap between platform functionality and practical field application, support data interpretation, and ensure that outputs are correctly captured and utilized across monitoring workflows. This is a strategic entry-level role with a clear upgrade trajectory contingent on demonstrated performance and program needs. The intern will coordinate with and receive technical support from AWF's experienced Conservation Geography department.

Key Responsibilities

GIS Data Management & Analysis

• Support the deployment, configuration, and day-to-day management of AWF Rwanda's five GIS-based monitoring platforms.
• Collect, process, clean, validate, and analyze spatial and non-spatial datasets from field teams, partners, and remote sensing sources.
• Prepare maps, dashboards, and visualizations (e.g., storymaps) to communicate program findings and impact to AWF staff, partners, and donors.
• Maintain an organized, well-documented GIS data library in line with AWF data management standards.
• Support the integration of AI-based analysis tools for biodiversity and land-use monitoring datasets.

Ecological & Impact Monitoring Support

• Assist in the design and implementation of monitoring protocols for wildlife, habitat, and human-wildlife conflict across the VNP landscape.
• Support eDNA-based biodiversity monitoring field campaigns, including logistics coordination and sample data entry.
• Compile and analyze data from KoboToolbox and other field data collection tools to contribute to quarterly and annual indicator tracking.
• Ensure monitoring data is correctly captured, stored, and aligned to AWF Rwanda's M&E framework and donor logframes.

Platform Training & Capacity Building

• Assist in orienting field staff and community monitors on the use of GIS and monitoring platforms.
• Document workflows, user guides, and standard operating procedures for each monitoring platform.
• Troubleshoot platform-related issues and coordinate technical support with vendors and AWF IT as needed.

Reporting & Coordination

• Contribute data and analysis inputs for quarterly and annual project progress reports to donors including the EU, and TUI Care Foundation.
• Participate in program team meetings, field visits, and partner coordination events as required.
• Perform any other related tasks as assigned by the supervisor.

Key Requirements and skills

• Bachelor's degree in Geography, Geomatics, Environmental Science, Natural Resource Management, or a related field with a GIS or remote sensing component.
• Demonstrated proficiency in GIS software (QGIS and/or ArcGIS); ability to perform spatial analysis, cartography, and data visualization.
• Familiarity with mobile data collection tools (KoboToolbox, Survey123, or equivalent).
• Strong analytical skills and attention to detail in managing and interpreting data.
• Ability to communicate results clearly in English, both verbally and in writing.
• Willingness to work under physically demanding field settings in Rwanda's Northern Province.

Preferred

• Experience or coursework in GIS, remote sensing, land cover classification, or ecological monitoring.
• Familiarity with Python, R, or other scripting languages for spatial data analysis.
• Familiarity with ArcGIS Online tools from dashboards to survey form design.
• Knowledge of conservation monitoring frameworks and biodiversity indicators.
• Prior experience working with an NGO, research institution, or government agency in Rwanda.

Deadline: July 20,2026

Tags

• environmental monitoring
• geographic information systems
• geospatial systems
• internship
• wildlife conservation

Skills

• QGIS
• ArcGIS
• KoboToolbox
• Communication skills
• Python

The recruiting organization, African Wildlife Foundation (AWF), has not specified a closing date for this vacancy or continues to list jobs after their stated closing date. Because such positions may remain open, they are listed here until removed from the recruiting organization's website.

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