The United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat) has announced an exciting international consultancy opportunity for the position of Urban Planner and GIS Expert (International Consultant) for 2026. This role is part of UN-Habitat’s expanding urban resilience and climate action portfolio in Jordan, with a home-based work arrangement and a contract duration of five months. The consultancy is ideal for professionals with strong expertise in urban planning, GIS, spatial analysis, and data-driven development programming who are eager to contribute to sustainable urban development and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
This article provides a comprehensive overview of the recruitment, including background, responsibilities, qualifications, work scope, and career significance.
About UN-Habitat
UN-Habitat is the United Nations agency mandated by the General Assembly to promote socially and environmentally sustainable human settlements and to achieve adequate shelter for all. For more than four decades, UN-Habitat has worked globally to support countries in managing rapid urbanization, strengthening urban governance, improving access to housing and basic services, and enhancing resilience to climate change.
The agency serves as the focal point for urbanization and human settlement matters within the UN system and plays a critical role in implementing the New Urban Agenda and SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities. Its work emphasizes evidence-based planning, inclusive development, innovation, and multi-stakeholder collaboration.
UN-Habitat Jordan: Context and Programme Focus
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In Jordan, UN-Habitat works closely with national and local stakeholders to address complex urban challenges, particularly in cities hosting vulnerable populations and refugees. Its interventions span several integrated focus areas, including:
- Urban policy development
- Climate change adaptation and mitigation
- Disaster risk reduction
- Public space development
- Socio-economic recovery
- WASH and food security
- Infrastructure and basic urban services
UN-Habitat Jordan’s programmes prioritize inclusive planning, community participation, and data-driven decision-making, ensuring that interventions respond effectively to local needs and vulnerabilities.
Background of the Assignment
This consultancy is embedded within UN-Habitat Jordan’s Climate Change and City Resilience portfolio, which aligns with the agency’s Strategic Plan goal of “Strengthened Climate Action and Improved Urban Environment.”
A key foundation of this work is the Multilayered Vulnerability Assessment (MVA) conducted in 2024 for Sahab City, which identified climate, socio-economic, spatial, and biodiversity-related vulnerabilities using advanced spatial analysis methodologies. Building on the findings of the MVA, UN-Habitat Jordan is now supporting the development of Resilience Action Plans and implementing targeted urban interventions.
The Urban Planner and GIS Expert will support multiple flagship projects, including:
- RISE UP – Accelerating the Implementation of the Paris Agreement
- Rethinking Sahab – Urban Greening for a Resilient and Sustainable Future
- Green Al-Salt: Public Spaces and Living Heritage for Socio-Economic Development
- Sport for Sustainable Urban Development Initiative
Together, these projects aim to enhance urban resilience, promote climate action, improve public spaces, and strengthen social inclusion across selected cities and neighborhoods.
Position Overview
- Job Title: Urban Planner and GIS Expert (International Consultant)
- Job Opening ID: 270489
- Category & Level: Consultant (CON)
- Duty Station: Amman, Jordan (Home-based)
- Contract Duration: 5 months
- Application Deadline: 25 January 2026
The consultant will work under the overall supervision of the Head of UN-Habitat Jordan Country Office and relevant Project Managers, contributing technical expertise to support urban assessments, planning processes, and capacity-building initiatives.
Key Duties and Responsibilities
The Urban Planner and GIS Expert will play a central technical role in strengthening evidence-based urban programming. Major responsibilities include:
1. Spatial Data Collection and Analysis
The consultant will lead the collection, cleaning, and processing of spatial and non-spatial datasets. This includes working with GIS layers, open-source data, and local datasets to support city-wide and site-specific assessments.
2. GIS Mapping and Visualization
A core responsibility is the development of high-quality spatial maps, analytical outputs, and graphic materials aligned with project objectives. These visual products will support vulnerability assessments, resilience planning, and policy dialogue.
3. Urban Indicators and Analytical Frameworks
The consultant will provide technical input into the design and development of urban indicators that measure climate vulnerability, resilience, public space accessibility, and socio-economic conditions.
4. Capacity Building and Knowledge Transfer
An important component of the assignment is strengthening local capacities. The consultant will plan and deliver training sessions for UN-Habitat staff, municipal teams, and partners on:
- GIS tools such as QGIS
- Data collection platforms like Kobo
- Data cleaning and analysis using Excel
- Analytical frameworks for urban planning
5. Technical Reporting and Documentation
The role involves contributing to project reports, concept notes, and technical documents, ensuring accuracy, clarity, and alignment with UN standards.
6. Stakeholder Engagement
The consultant will interact with municipal authorities, national stakeholders, and project partners, representing UN-Habitat professionally and adhering to the highest standards of integrity and ethical conduct.
Qualifications and Experience Required
Educational Qualifications
- A Bachelor’s degree in Cartography, Geography, Geographic Information Systems (GIS), Urban Planning, or a closely related field is required.
Professional Experience
- A minimum of two years of relevant professional experience in urban development, planning, GIS integration, spatial analysis, or related fields.
- Demonstrated experience working with urban data in a local or national context is essential.
Technical Skills
- Strong proficiency in GIS tools and spatial data analysis
- Experience in geodatabase design and data management
- Ability to collect and analyze data from open sources
- Familiarity with urban indicators and planning frameworks
Desirable Skills
- Experience in capacity-building and training facilitation
- Knowledge of SDGs and the New Urban Agenda
- Previous work with international development organizations
- Strong analytical, organizational, and communication skills
Language Requirements
- Fluency in English, both written and spoken, is mandatory.
- Knowledge of French is an asset, as English and French are the UN Secretariat’s working languages.
Work Modality and Reporting Line
The consultancy is home-based, offering flexibility while requiring close coordination with the UN-Habitat Jordan team. The consultant will report to the Head of the Country Office and designated Project Managers, ensuring alignment with project timelines and deliverables.
Contribution to Sustainable Development Goals
This assignment directly contributes to several SDGs, including:
- SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities
- SDG 13: Climate Action
- SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities
- SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals
By supporting data-driven planning, urban greening, inclusive public spaces, and climate resilience, the consultant’s work will have a tangible impact on improving quality of life for vulnerable urban populations.
Ethical Standards and UN Recruitment Policy
UN-Habitat emphasizes the highest standards of efficiency, competence, and integrity. The organization clearly states that no fees are charged at any stage of the recruitment process, including application, interview, or training. Applicants are advised to remain vigilant against fraudulent recruitment practices.
Why This Opportunity Matters
The Urban Planner and GIS Expert consultancy offers a unique opportunity to work at the intersection of urban planning, climate resilience, and spatial data science within the United Nations system. It is particularly suitable for professionals seeking international exposure, meaningful impact, and hands-on involvement in transformative urban projects.
With its strong focus on evidence-based decision-making, community engagement, and sustainable development, this role provides not only professional growth but also the chance to contribute directly to building more inclusive, resilient, and sustainable cities.
Final Thoughts
The UN-Habitat Urban Planner and GIS Expert (International Consultant) Recruitment 2026 is a highly relevant opportunity for urban professionals passionate about climate action, GIS, and sustainable development. With a clear mandate, diverse project exposure, and alignment with global development goals, this consultancy stands out as a valuable career milestone for qualified candidates ready to make a real-world impact
