Introduction
With support from the H2H Network’s Syria Activation, the objective of this project at the Humanitarian OpenStreetMap Team aims to strengthen the foundations of OpenStreetMap (OSM) community in Syria by collaborating with local community leaders to provide technical OSM training, create communication forums, and develop essential documentation. Beginning with a spatial data landscape analysis, the project will then launch crowdsourced mapping campaigns, with a primary focus on the Aleppo (urban) and Damascus (rural) governorates.
Activities & Services:
- Spatial data inventory and recommendations report in collaboration with other information management actors to identify geospatial data needs, priority dataset, and suggest reliable sources.
- Updated open spatial datasets: Lead crowdsourced updates to priority OSM datasets (e.g. buildings, roads, and other critical infrastructure) through targeted mapping campaigns, in accordance with OSM standards and HOT guidance.
- Replicable crowdsourcing framework: Develop a lessons-learned approach for using OSM and crowdsourcing to update base spatial data in conflict affected areas, following OSM conventions and documentation.
- Data sharing and responsible use: Promote responsible use of open mapping in recovery contexts by raising awareness of crowdsourcing tools and data responsibility principles, in line with HOT data protection policies and Do No Harm principles.
About Humanitarian OpenStreetMap Team
The Humanitarian OpenStreetMap Team (HOT) is an international nonprofit that uses open mapping to support humanitarian response, disaster resilience, and sustainable development. By empowering communities and volunteers to create open geospatial data on OpenStreetMap, HOT helps organizations make informed decisions and improve services for vulnerable and underserved populations.This project is part of HOT’s Conflict & Displacement Program.
Lead OSM Guru Role and Responsibilities
OSM Gurus are regional OpenStreetMap experts who provide technical guidance, mentorship, and support to new mappers, partners, and others interested in OpenStreetmap. Two Lead OSM Gurus will jointly support the implementation of project activities in Syria, working with in-country and global networks to identify existing spatial data, research data gaps, train others in OSM, and run OSM events, or “mapathons”. They will serve as technical focal points for OpenStreetMap activities under this project, representing HOT’s work in coordination spaces when requested in coordinated data/Information Management structures in Syria.
As Lead Guru, they will serve as an ambassador between HOT and other data/IM H2H partners and mappers (both volunteer and stipend supported).
Objectives of Lead Guru Consultancy for H2H Syria Project
- Support design of, and input into spatial data inventory for Syria with Syrian-based groups, governments, UN, H2H Partners, etc.
- Identify targeted data improvement campaigns based on feasibility and anticipated impact for recovery and specific data needs for community building in Syria.
- Work with the project team and H2H partners to develop a methodology to create fit for purpose data in areas of high change in Syria.
- Develop advanced, context-specific proficiency in OpenStreetMap tools and workflows relevant to Syria through HOT-provided trainings.
- Run trainings and OpenStreetMap contribution events or “mapathons”.
- Provide technical mentorship and guidance to four (4) OSM mapping fellows supported by project stipends., with administrative and payment responsibilities retained by HOT.
- Meet with stakeholders in Syria interested in contributing to, or using, OpenStreetMap data.
- Participate in project and H2H network partner meetings.
Qualification Criteria
- Minimum 3 years of relevant Geographic Information Systems analysis experience.
- Experience with OpenStreetMap preferred.
- Relevant university degree (GIS, data analysis, computer science, etc) desired.
- Knowledge of humanitarian coordination architecture in Syria. Experience working with local NGOs or coordination forums preferred.
- Experience in GIS or technical training is a plus.
- Be based in, or near, Rural Damascus or Aleppo City
- Excellent written and verbal communication in English and Arabic.
- Strong technical, organizational, and interpersonal abilities.
Application Deadline
Applications are due on the 30th of December, 2025 and will be reviewed on a rolling basis.
This position may close before the stated deadline if we receive large volume of qualified applications (approximately 250 applications). Early submission is recommended.
Anticipated start date: January 2026 - June 2026