Remote sensing, GIS&MEAL Manager

Conservation International protects nature for the benefit of humanity. Through science, policy, fieldwork, and finance, we spotlight and secure the most important places in nature for the climate, biodiversity, and for people. With offices in 30 countries and projects in more than 100 countries, Conservation International partners with governments, companies, civil society, Indigenous peoples, and local communities to help people and nature thrive together.

POSITION SUMMARY - This position is based in Toliara, Madagascar

The Remote Sensing, GIS and MEAL Manager will provide technical support to the IKI Growing Greener project by establishing integrated Monitoring, Evaluation, Accountability, and Learning (MEAL) systems, including the use of remote sensing and GIS tools. They will be responsible for monitoring project performance and impact through geospatial analysis, map production, and indicator development, in order to inform decision-making and improve resource allocation.

They will work closely with the project team, local implementing partners, and communities to strengthen the design and implementation of H4H program activities. They will contribute to capacity building, the development of data management tools and systems, and the establishment of monitoring mechanisms, including reference sites and time-series data collection.

They will ensure the quality of monitoring and reporting, compliance with project commitments, and adherence to donor requirements, particularly in relation to safeguards and gender. By combining MEAL expertise with spatial analysis, they will support the H4H approach by promoting context-appropriate practices, improving the understanding of ecological, pastoral, and socio-economic performance and impacts, and ensuring alignment with H4H strategic priorities.

The Remote Sensing, GIS and MEAL Manager does not directly manage staff. Duties are performed under general supervision.

RESPONSIBILITIES

MEAL Systems Design and Data Quality Management

• Design and deploy integrated MEAL systems, including the design of a functional project database.
• Integrate remote sensing and GIS tools into MEAL systems to enhance spatial and temporal monitoring of indicators.
• Develop a robust results and performance monitoring framework aligned with strategic priorities, donor requirements, and partner needs.
• Define key performance indicators (KPIs), protocols, and monitoring tools, and ensure their implementation through dashboards and reporting systems to support decision-making.
• Actively contribute, in collaboration with the MEAL team, to the development and operationalization of the Africa Rangeland Watch (ARW) platform for monitoring H4H program performance.
• Ensure data quality, consistency, and integrity through validation and quality control processes.

Project Planning, Management, and Partner Follow-up

• Contribute to the strategic and operational planning of the H4H program, including activity prioritization and terms of reference development.
• Support the development, updating, and alignment of H4H technical action plans.
• Ensure technical oversight of H4H program implementation, including data quality, MEAL deliverables, and compliance with donor requirements.
• Follow up on activities implemented by local partners in coordination with the project team and support the resolution of operational constraints.

Data Collection, Management, and Analysis

• Supervise the establishment of monitoring systems (reference and control sites) and methodologies for field and geospatial data collection.
• Design, structure, and manage databases and information systems, ensuring integration with internal and partner platforms, while incorporating remote sensing and GIS tools.
• Analyze and interpret statistical, spatial, and temporal data to identify trends, impacts, and opportunities.
• Produce visualizations and decision-support tools.

Performance Monitoring, Reporting, Evaluation, and Learning

• Monitor project performance and measure progress against objectives.
• Produce regular reports for internal teams, donors, and governance bodies.
• Design and implement evaluation activities, ensuring quality and compliance with established frameworks.
• Capitalize on lessons learned, disseminate findings, and integrate learning into planning cycles.
• Promote a culture of learning and evidence-based decision-making for adaptive project management.

Capacity Building, Coordination, and Strategic Support

• Train and support teams, partners, and communities on MEAL, GIS, and remote sensing tools and approaches.
• Strengthen analytical capacities and promote a data-driven culture among stakeholders.
• Ensure close collaboration with local partners, institutions, and communities, and represent the project in technical networks.
• Contribute to resource mobilization and proposal development.
• Perform any other related duties as required for the project.

People and Resource Management Responsibilities

• This position does not have formal supervisory authority over staff but trains, mentors, and guides local teams and partners involved in the monitoring system.
• Serves as a subject matter expert on MEAL, GIS, and remote sensing aspects of program operations.
• Supports the management of the H4H program and operational budget related to monitoring, data collection, and analytical activities.
• Accountable for ensuring proper use and reporting of resources and funds is essential to achieving Conservation International’s objectives.

WORKING CONDITIONS

• Typical office environment.
• Occasional travel, approximately 20% of working time, may be required.
• Ability to work extended hours when necessary to meet project deadlines.

QUALIFICATIONS

Required

• Bachelor's degree in statistics, international development, natural resource management, or a related field.
• 4 to 6 years of professional experience in the conservation and development sector.
• At least 3 years of experience in MEAL and performance indicator monitoring for environmental projects, including database design and management (Excel, Access, PostgreSQL, Kobo, ODK), data structuring, validation, and MEAL protocols.
• Strong knowledge of pastoral ecosystems, including biomass, vegetation cover, biodiversity, and ecological monitoring.
• Proficiency in GIS, remote sensing tools, and data analysis software (ArcGIS, QGIS, Google Earth Engine, R, or Python).
• Experience in livestock monitoring, including herd density estimation, livestock health and productivity indicators, and community-based rangeland management.
• Strong skills in statistical analysis, time-series construction, dashboard development, and reporting, including comparative analysis between monitored and control sites.
• Fluency in French and English (minimum B2 level).

Preferred

• Master’s degree.
• Certificate or advanced training in Monitoring, Evaluation, and/or Learning (MEAL) is an asset.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team, in collaboration with local stakeholders and consultants.
• Available for frequent travel.
• Good knowledge of the region and the local language is an asset.
• Strong organizational skills and excellent communication skills.
• Ability to maintain good relationships with the public and partners.
• Team spirit and initiative.

To apply for this position, please submit a resume and a cover letter in a single PDF.

Application Deadline: June 21, 2026 (11:49PM EST)

See all Conservation International Career Opportunities HERE

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