Geographical Information Systems (gis) & Monitoring Intern

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
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