Job Summary
- Employer: UN Environment Programme (UNEP) – International Methane Emissions Observatory (IMEO)
- Job Type: Contract
- Location: Harare, Zimbabwe
- Category: Data Science
- Closing Date: 2026-10-28
Key Responsibilities
- The consultant will integrate new satellite data sources into MARS, including high-temporal-frequency geostationary sensors.
- The work will include adjusting the MARS PostgreSQL database schema to support smooth ingestion, processing and storage, as well as grouping high-frequency detections into plume events.
- The consultant will share responsibility for the day-to-day monitoring and maintenance of the MARS data ingestion pipeline running on Azure.
- Monitoring automated ingestion processes.
- Triaging ingestion issues through Jira.
- Resolving production issues.
- Extending MARS data-quality monitoring checks to new data sources and processing steps.
- The consultant will own the MARS source persistency pipeline, which estimates source persistency – the fraction of satellite observations in which a source is detected emitting – and total annual emissions for methane point sources.
- The pipeline will be improved in line with the latest research directions.
- The consultant will maintain and further automate public data pipelines, including: Plume and source exports.
- Detection and non-detection time series.
- Top 50 emitters.
- Other MARS public data products.
Requirements
- Candidates are required to have a first-level university degree, such as a Bachelor’s degree, in Remote Sensing, Computer Science, Data Science, Physics or a related field.
- Applicants should also have: High proficiency in Python and its scientific and geospatial stack, particularly for processing and analysing satellite remote sensing data.
- Experience with PostgreSQL.
- Experience with cloud platforms, preferably Azure, including ideally Azure ML and web application services.
- Knowledge of software engineering best practices, including Git, maintainable and tested code, Docker and CI/CD tools such as Jenkins.
- Scientific expertise in remote sensing demonstrated through open-source projects or scientific publications.
- An interest in the retrieval and interpretation of atmospheric trace gases from satellite imagery.
- Experience building or maintaining operational data pipelines and data-quality monitoring systems.
- Experience with issue-tracking tools such as Jira.
- A genuine interest in environmental and climate-related challenges.
How to Apply
About the Company
The UN Environment Programme's International Methane Emissions Observatory (IMEO) operates in Zimbabwe as part of its global mission to reduce methane pollution. In Zimbabwe, IMEO works with government agencies and industry stakeholders to improve methane emissions measurement and reporting, particularly in the waste and agriculture sectors. The observatory provides technical assistance and capacity building to help Zimbabwe meet its commitments under the Global Methane Pledge. IMEO's activities in the country support national climate goals while contributing to cleaner air and sustainable development outcomes.
Cutting methane emissions to fight climate change
Frequently Asked Questions
What qualifications or certifications do I need to become a Remote Sensing Data Engineer in Zimbabwe?
Most employers require a bachelor's degree in geomatics, computer science, environmental science, or a related field. A master's degree is often preferred for senior roles. Certifications in GIS software like ArcGIS or QGIS, plus programming skills in Python or R, significantly strengthen your profile.
What are the typical day-to-day responsibilities of this role?
You will process and analyze satellite imagery and geospatial datasets to detect methane emissions or environmental changes. Daily tasks include writing automation scripts, maintaining data pipelines, quality-checking datasets, and collaborating with scientists to visualize findings. You may also troubleshoot technical issues with remote sensing equipment or cloud-based storage systems.
How does work culture and employer expectations differ for remote sensing roles in Zimbabwe?
Zimbabwean employers value punctuality, respect for hierarchy, and clear communication due to intermittent internet connectivity in some areas. You may need to adapt to flexible hours when collaborating with international teams across time zones. Demonstrating self-reliance and problem-solving skills is essential, as technical support resources can be limited locally.
What realistic career progression paths exist for Remote Sensing Data Engineers in Zimbabwe?
Entry-level engineers typically advance to senior data engineer or team lead positions within 3-5 years. With experience, you can transition into specialized roles like geospatial data scientist, environmental consultant, or project manager for international organizations. Some professionals establish consulting firms serving NGOs, mining companies, or agricultural sectors requiring satellite monitoring.
What benefits should I expect from contract-based data science roles with international organizations in Zimbabwe?
UN contracts typically include health insurance coverage, though terms vary by agreement duration and level. Annual leave allowances usually follow UN standards, often exceeding local private sector norms. Pension or provident fund contributions depend on contract type, with some short-term contracts offering limited benefits compared to fixed-term appointments.
How should I apply for remote sensing positions, and what do Zimbabwean employers prioritize in candidates?
Apply through official UN careers portals and professional networks like LinkedIn, ensuring your CV highlights technical competencies and project outcomes. Employers prioritize demonstrated experience with real-world datasets, open-source contributions, and adaptability to resource-constrained environments. Strong references from academic supervisors or previous international contract work carry significant weight in selection processes.
