About WCS
The Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) is a U.S.-based non-profit, tax-exempt organisation established in 1895, dedicated to saving wildlife and wild places through science-driven solutions and conservation actions that benefit both nature and humanity. With over a century of experience, long-term commitments across diverse landscapes, operations in more than 60 countries, and a track record of supporting the establishment of over 150 protected areas worldwide, WCS has built unparalleled biological expertise, cultural understanding, and partnerships to ensure that vibrant wildlife and ecosystems thrive alongside local communities. By working directly with communities and organisations, WCS applies this knowledge to address species, habitat, and ecosystem management challenges that are critical to improving the quality of life for rural populations whose livelihoods depend on natural resources.
Since 2001, WCS has been at the forefront of conservation efforts in Nigeria, safeguarding critical wildlife habitats and species such as the Cross River gorilla, savannah and forest elephants, and other threatened fauna. Alongside biodiversity protection, WCS supports local livelihoods and improves access to water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) services for surrounding communities, addressing development challenges while fostering conservation awareness. In Cross River State, WCS has provided support to strengthen the protection and management of Cross River National Park, Afi Mountain Wildlife Sanctuary, and the Mbe Mountains Community Forest. In Bauchi State, WCS collaborates with the state government to provide technical expertise for the effective conservation and management of Yankari Game Reserve.
Our MISSION is to save wildlife and wild places worldwide through science, conservation action, education and inspiring people to value nature. Our VISION is a world where wildlife thrives in healthy lands and seas valued by societies that embrace and benefit from the diversity and integrity of life on earth. Our GOAL is to conserve the world’s largest wild places in 16 priority regions, home to more than 50% of the world’s biodiversity. Our VALUES are respect, accountability and transparency, innovation, diversity and inclusion, collaboration, and integrity.
The WCS Nigeria Program is seeking a GIS Officer to support spatial data management, mapping, and analysis to strengthen biodiversity monitoring, law enforcement, and conservation planning within the WCS Yankari Landscape with possible support to the entire Nigerian program.
Job Summary
The role involves managing geospatial datasets, supporting field teams with GPS and mapping tools, and producing high-quality maps and analyses to inform decision-making. The position reports to the Biomonitoring Coordinator.
Location: Yankari, Bauchi State
Position Type: Full-time
Contract Type: Fixed Term
Duration: 13 Months (renewable depending on availability of funds)
Why Join Us?
- Leverage global expertise and team
- Dynamic Team: Join a dynamic team and work in a collaborative and conducive environment where your ideas and everyone's input are valued.
- Exceptional opportunity to make significant contributions to the protection of biodiversity conservation
- Growth Opportunities: We believe in providing an enabling environment to develop your career. We are committed to developing your skills and competencies and offer opportunities for career advancement.
- Supportive Environment: Work with a team that values respect, teamwork, and excellence.
- Competitive benefits and compensation
- Opportunity to work up close to nature and the wild.
Key Responsibilities
Data Collection & Management
- Support ranger and community biomonitoring teams in collecting accurate GPS data during patrols and social/ecological surveys.
- Manage spatial databases and ensure proper storage, validation, and integration of field data.
- Maintain and update GIS layers for species distribution, patrol coverage, habitat monitoring, and threat mapping.
Mapping & Analysis
- Produce maps and spatial analyses to support law enforcement, biomonitoring, community conservation, and conservation planning.
- Conduct spatial analysis of patrol data, wildlife observations, and threats using GIS software.
- Support ground-truthing of remote sensing data and integrate findings into conservation strategies.
Technical Support & Capacity Building
- Train rangers and field staff in GPS use, data collection, and basic GIS applications.
- Provide technical support for SMART-based patrol monitoring and reporting systems.
- Assist in developing spatial tools and dashboards for monitoring and reporting.
Reporting & Documentation
- Contribute to preparation of spatial data inputs for donor reports, technical briefs, and presentations.
- Document GIS processes, methodologies, and lessons learned for internal knowledge sharing.
- Ensure timely submission of maps and spatial data products to programme leadership.
Qualifications & Experience
- Bachelor’s degree in Geography, GIS, Environmental Science, or a related field (Master’s degree is an advantage).
- Minimum of 3 years’ experience in GIS and spatial data management, preferably in conservation or natural resource management. Experience and a good knowledge of monitoring and evaluation (M&E) will be an added advantage.
- Proficiency in GIS software (ArcGIS, QGIS) and GPS tools.
- Experience with SMART or similar conservation monitoring systems (desirable).
- Familiarity with remote sensing and spatial analysis techniques.
Skills & Competencies
- Strong technical skills in GIS mapping and spatial analysis.
- Attention to detail and accuracy in data management.
- Ability to train and mentor field staff in GIS and GPS use.
- Strong communication and report writing skills.
- Ability to work effectively in remote and challenging environments.
- Team-orientated, with the ability to collaborate across technical and field teams.
Additional Requirements
- Fluency in spoken and written English; knowledge of local languages is an advantage.
- Willingness to travel regularly to other field sites when required.
- Demonstrated commitment to wildlife conservation and community engagement.
How to Apply:
Interested applicants and qualified persons (Nigerian nationals only) with the matched skill set and experience should apply by sending their application (Cover letter and Resume as one PDF document) with the Subject “GIS Officer, Yankari” in capital letters to nigeriajobs@wcs.org
The advert opens from 6th August 2026 to 26th August 2026. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis Please note that only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for assessment.
WCS is an equal opportunity employer dedicated to hiring and supporting a diverse workforce. We are committed to cultivating an inclusive work environment and looking for future team members who share that same value. Females are strongly advised to apply. WCS would never ask or request you to pay to apply for a position.