Climate Transparency Unit IT Expert for Enabling Lesotho’s Enhanced Transparency Framework Project
The Government of Lesotho through the Ministry of Environment and Forestry under the Lesotho Meteorological Services (LMS) is implementing a three-year project titled “Enabling Lesotho’s Enhanced Transparency Framework” supported by Global Environment Facility (GEF) with United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) as the delivery partner from 01 January 2023 to 31 December 2025. The main objective of the project is to strengthen Lesotho’s capacity to collect and process climate change data into useful information for policymaking and reporting to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) as well as improving the monitoring and evaluation aspect. The Ministry is therefore looking for a qualified, experienced, and competent Climate Transparency Unit IT Expert who will ensure results oriented, effective, efficient, and accountable implementation of the project activities and achievement of project results.
Job DescriptionThe Climate Transparency Unit IT Expert will support the administration and technical support of the climate data collection and tracking tool, as well as the interlinked web-based climate data Measurement, Reporting, and Verification (MRV) tool. This includes ensuring the functionality, integrity, and security of these systems, providing technical support, and enhancing the tools to meet the evolving needs of the unit, and incorporating innovative solutions such as artificial intelligence (AI) to improve data analysis and system efficiency. The expert will also contribute significantly to the Climate Transparency Unit’s mission of gathering, analysing, and communicating accurate and reliable climate information to support informed decision-making and climate action.
Terms of Reference for the Climate Transparency Unit IT ExpertA. Administration of Climate Data Tools:
- Manage and maintain the climate data collection and tracking tool.
- Administer the web-based climate data MRV tool, ensuring seamless integration with the data collection and tracking tool.
- Perform regular updates, backups, and maintenance to ensure optimal performance.
B. Data Management:
- Ensure the accuracy, integrity, and security of climate data within both tools.
- Implement data validation procedures and automated quality checks.
- Develop and manage data backup and recovery processes.
C. User Support and Training:
- Provide technical support to users of the climate data tools, addressing any issues or queries.
- Develop and distribute user guides and documentation.
- Conduct training sessions for staff and stakeholders on the effective use of the tools.
D. System Enhancement and Integration:
- Identify opportunities for improving the functionality and user experience of the climate data tools.
- Develop and implement enhancements, including new features and integrations with other systems.
- Collaborate with external developers and vendors as necessary.
- Ensure compatibility of the climate data tools with various operating systems, browsers, and devices.
E. Innovation and Integration:
- Explore and implement innovative solutions, including artificial intelligence (AI), to enhance data analysis, prediction, and system efficiency.
- Develop and apply AI models to improve data collection, tracking, and reporting processes.
- Stay updated on AI advancements and evaluate their potential applications within the unit.
F. Cybersecurity:
- Implement and enforce cybersecurity measures to protect climate data.
- Monitor the tools for security vulnerabilities and respond to incidents promptly.
- Stay updated on cybersecurity best practices and emerging threats.
G. Project Management:
- Plan and manage IT projects related to the climate data tools, including timelines, budgets, and resources.
- Coordinate with other units and stakeholders to ensure project alignment and success.
- Monitor and report on project progress and outcomes.
H. Stakeholder Engagement:
- Engage with internal and external stakeholders to understand their needs and provide solutions related to the climate data tools.
- Participate in meetings and discussions to provide technical expertise and support.
- Represent the unit at relevant IT and climate-related forums and events.
- Creating interactive visualizations and dashboards to communicate complex climate information to stakeholders effectively including for climate change awareness
I. Documentation and Archiving
- Develop and maintain comprehensive documentation for all climate data tools and related processes.
- Implement effective archiving systems to ensure long-term preservation and accessibility of climate data.
- Document processes, procedures, and user guides for the climate data collection and tracking tool, as well
- Ensure compliance with legal and regulatory requirements for data documentation and archiving.
- Regularly review and update documentation and archiving policies and procedures.
- Degree in Information Technology, Computer Systems and networks or relevant degree with 5 years technical working experience in data management and web-based systems. An advanced degree would be an asset (Master’s or higher); Experience in working with climate data management systems will be an added advantage.
- Experience in administering and supporting data collection and tracking systems.
- Familiarity with climate data and MRV processes is a plus.
- Experience with AI technologies and their application in data analysis.
- Experience in documentation and archiving practices.
- Strong problem-solving and analytical Skills; in data and reporting workflows
- Excellent interpersonal skills and ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing.
- Proficiency with a range of IT tools and software applications, including database management systems, web development tools, and cybersecurity solutions.
- Knowledge of AI and machine learning frameworks and tools.
- Experience in preparation or management of environmental IT systems shall be considered as asset.
- Good understanding and demonstrable experience of system administration.
- Project management skills and experience with project management tools.
- Expertise in documentation and archiving standards and practices.
- Demonstrated experience of working with government and other stakeholders.
- Ability to work in an interdisciplinary and international environment.
- Proven networking teambuilding, networking, organizational and communication skills.
- Ability to successfully complete project tasks, including timely submission of the deliverables.
Duration: The assignment will be up to 28 months from September 2024 to December 2026 when the project end (Fixed Term Contract).
Submission of Applications: Interested candidates must submit cover letter, certified copies of academic certificates and transcripts, detailed curriculum vitae and three reference letters to Human Resource office, Lesotho Meteorological Services, Options Building, 2nd & 3rd Floors, Pioneer Road, Maseru on or before 30th August 2024 at 16:30 p.m.
Disclaimer: Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
