Program Associate: Mapping and Monitoring

World Resources Institute

WRI India, an independent charity registered as the India Resources Trust, is dedicated to fostering environmentally sound and socially equitable development. Affiliated with the global World Resources Institute, WRI India leverages research, analysis, and actionable recommendations to build transformative solutions that protect the earth, promote livelihoods, and enhance human well-being. With over 250 researchers across Delhi, Mumbai, and Bengaluru, WRI India collaborates with governments, businesses, civil society, and local communities to drive sustainable change.

About the Role

Location: Bhopal, India
Salary: ₹9,50,000 to ₹12,50,000 CTC per annum (commensurate with experience and skills)
Duration: 1 year (extendable based on performance and project requirements)
Start Date: As soon as possible

Responsibilities

Research (80%)

• Collate and analyze geospatial data for natural resource management to identify areas with high restoration potential within pilot sites.
• Utilize geospatial data to assess land use, vegetation cover, and hydrological features; prepare thematic maps for INRM interventions focused on climate resilience and sustainability.
• Support the Government of Madhya Pradesh and partners with geospatial insights for improved INRM planning and resource allocation.
• Generate reports, dashboards, and spatial visualizations using GIS and remote sensing data; validate findings through ground truthing and stakeholder inputs.
• Support stakeholder training and capacity building in geospatial tools and applications.
• Develop best-practices compendium and geospatial training modules for future restoration planning.
• Assist in real-time monitoring of INRM interventions using GIS and remote sensing.

Collaboration, Coordination, and Communication (20%)

• Build and maintain strong relationships with key stakeholders, including government departments, NGOs, research organizations, and universities.
• Communicate research findings in diverse formats (blogs, policy briefs, presentations) for various stakeholders.
• Support multi-stakeholder consultative groups to extend the research and impact of WRI India’s work.
• Collaborate with partners to integrate geospatial solutions into databases and MIS systems.

Qualifications

• Master’s or Bachelor’s degree in remote sensing, GIS, geography, environmental science, civil engineering, or a related field, with applications in forestry, natural resource management, or land use planning in India.
• Minimum 2–3 years of demonstrated experience applying geospatial tools for modeling, land use planning, and management, especially in forestry, agriculture, or water resources.
• Proficiency in GIS software (ArcGIS, QGIS, ERDAS Imagine, Google Earth Engine).
• Knowledge of digital public infrastructure and government databases (e.g., Yuktadhara for MGNREGA planning) is beneficial.
• Experience working in rural development programs with government departments or NGOs.
• Demonstrated skills in participatory approaches and comfort working with scientific data and local knowledge.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills; effective communication abilities.
• Willingness and ability to conduct field visits and work in rural settings.
• Team-oriented, flexible, and cooperative working style.

Skills

• Advanced geospatial data analysis and mapping
• Report and technical note writing
• Stakeholder engagement and capacity building
• Field research and ground truthing
• Effective communication and presentation

Benefits

• Health insurance coverage for up to INR 8 lakhs (for self and family)
• Term insurance with life coverage of INR 50 lakhs per staff member
• Employee Assistance Program for mental well-being and work-life balance
• Personalized diet recommendations from certified dietitians
• Flexible work schedule and alternative work arrangements
• Learning culture with workshops and training opportunities
• Rest and Recharge weeks for rejuvenation and upskilling
• Generous leave policy: 36 personal days off per year, public holidays, maternity, paternity, and adoption leave

How to Apply

List of Documents to be attached: 

• Cover letter 
• Resume

Please note: Only shortlisted applicants will be contacted for interview purpose.