Job Description
Position: Geospatial Data Scientist
Company: Esri
Location: Bu’aale, Somalia
Experience: 3-5 years
Education: Bachelor’s degree in Geography, GIS, Computer Science or related field
Employment Type: Full-time
Industry: Geospatial Technology
Department: Data Science & Analytics
Salary: SSP 8,000,000 – 12,000,000 per month
Vacancies:1
Company Overview
Esri is the world’s leading provider of Geographic Information System (GIS) software, data, and services. With a presence in more than 70 countries, Esri empowers organizations to harness the power of location intelligence to solve complex challenges. In Africa, Esri collaborates with governments, NGOs, and private enterprises to improve disaster response, urban planning, natural resource management, and infrastructure development. The company’s commitment to innovation, sustainability, and community engagement makes it a premier employer for professionals seeking to make a tangible impact through spatial data. As part of its expansion strategy, Esri has established a regional hub in Bu’aale, bringing cutting‑edge geospatial solutions to the heart of Somalia and creating new Career Opportunities in Somalia.
Job Overview
The Geospatial Data Scientist will join Esri’s Data Science & Analytics department to design, develop, and implement advanced spatial analytics models that support clients across agriculture, humanitarian aid, urban development, and environmental monitoring. The role involves transforming raw satellite imagery, sensor data, and crowdsourced information into actionable insights that drive decision‑making for governments and NGOs. You will work closely with cross‑functional teams, including software engineers, product managers, and field specialists, to deliver high‑quality geospatial products. For more information, visit Somalia Job Search. This position is a key component of Esri’s Hiring in Somalia initiative, contributing to the growth of local expertise in geospatial technology.
Key Responsibilities
- Develop and validate machine learning models for land‑use classification, change detection, and predictive analytics using Python, R, and GIS platforms.
- Process and analyze multi‑spectral satellite imagery, LiDAR data, and UAV‑derived datasets to extract spatial features.
- Collaborate with client stakeholders to define analytical requirements and translate them into technical specifications.
- Create interactive maps, dashboards, and visualizations that communicate complex spatial patterns to non‑technical audiences.
- Maintain and optimize spatial databases (e.g., PostgreSQL/PostGIS, ArcGIS Enterprise) for performance and scalability.
- Document methodologies, code, and workflows to ensure reproducibility and compliance with data governance standards.
- Stay current with emerging geospatial technologies, open‑source tools, and industry best practices.
Required Skills
- Proficiency in GIS software such as ArcGIS Pro, QGIS, and web‑mapping libraries (Leaflet, Mapbox).
- Strong programming skills in Python or R, with experience in libraries like GDAL, rasterio, scikit‑learn, and TensorFlow.
- Hands‑on experience with remote sensing data processing and image classification techniques.
- Knowledge of spatial statistics, geostatistics, and spatial data mining.
- Ability to design and manage relational and raster databases, including SQL query optimization.
- Excellent problem‑solving abilities and a data‑driven mindset.
- Effective communication skills for presenting technical results to diverse audiences.
Education
A Bachelor’s degree in Geography, GIS, Computer Science, Environmental Science, or a related discipline is required. Candidates with a Master’s degree or relevant certifications (e.g., Esri Technical Certification, GIS Professional) will be given preference. Continuous learning is encouraged, and Esri supports professional development through internal training programs and external conferences.
Experience
Applicants should have 3‑5 years of professional experience in geospatial data analysis, remote sensing, or spatial data science. Experience working on projects in developing regions, especially within the African context, is highly valued. Prior exposure to humanitarian or development projects will enhance your candidacy, aligning with Esri’s mission to support sustainable development in Somalia.
Salary
The compensation package ranges from SSP 8,000,000 to SSP 12,000,000 per month, commensurate with experience and expertise. The salary is competitive within the local market and reflects Esri’s commitment to attracting top talent for Employment in Somalia.
Benefits
- Health insurance covering medical, dental, and vision care.
- Retirement savings plan with employer matching contributions.
- Annual performance‑based bonus.
- Paid annual leave, sick leave, and public holidays.
- Professional development allowance for certifications and conferences.
- Flexible working hours and remote‑work options where feasible.
Training
- Onboarding program covering Esri’s software suite, company culture, and project methodologies.
- Mentorship pairing with senior geospatial scientists for the first six months.
- Access to Esri’s online learning portal, including courses on ArcGIS, spatial AI, and data visualization.
- Quarterly workshops on emerging technologies such as cloud‑based GIS and real‑time data streaming.
Working Environment
Esri’s Bu’aale office offers a collaborative, technology‑focused environment equipped with high‑performance workstations, dual monitors, and secure data servers. The team culture emphasizes innovation, knowledge sharing, and a strong commitment to social impact. Employees enjoy a supportive atmosphere that balances challenging projects with opportunities for personal growth, making it an ideal place for professionals seeking meaningful Employment in Somalia.
Application Process
Interested candidates should submit their updated resume and a cover letter outlining their relevant experience through the online application portal on the Esri Careers page. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, and shortlisted applicants will be invited to a virtual interview followed by a technical assessment. Successful candidates will receive an offer letter detailing compensation, benefits, and start‑date information.
Equal Opportunity Statement
Esri is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive workplace for all employees, regardless of race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, age, disability, or veteran status. Our hiring practices reflect our dedication to fairness and the belief that diverse perspectives drive innovation and excellence.