Earth Observation Data Scientist (Part-Time, Remote)

About SoilWatch

SoilWatch is a climate tech company based in Helsinki, with offices in both Helsinki and Nairobi. We support Nature-based Solutions (NbS) projects across Africa, Latin America, and Asia by combining science, technology, and ecological insight. Our work bridges ecosystem restoration, Earth Observation, sustainable agriculture, community engagement, climate finance, and ecological modeling.

We’re a mission-driven team working to regenerate ecosystems, strengthen local livelihoods, and unlock climate finance through scalable, data-driven solutions. Joining SoilWatch means contributing to some of the world’s most pressing environmental challenges using science and innovation.

**To apply, send your CV and cover letter to [email protected]**

Role Overview

We are seeking a Remote Sensing / Earth Observation Data Scientist for a part-time, remote position covering a 4-month maternity leave period starting in July 2025. You’ll play a key role in analyzing satellite imagery and ecological datasets to assess ecosystem health and carbon storage, while contributing to the development of a digital platform for Nature-based Solutions.

Key Responsibilities

• Analyze and interpret satellite imagery and geospatial ecological data
• Design and implement optimized (i.e. stratified random, model-driven) sampling plans for ground data collection of aboveground biomass (tree DBH and canopy height, grass AGB) and soil organic carbon (SOC, bulk density).
• Develop algorithms and modelling approaches for ecosystem monitoring
• Support carbon estimation using Earth Observation and statistical methods
• Manage large datasets with robust quality control procedures
• Prepare clear visualizations and presentations for internal and external stakeholders
• Contribute to the development of a web-based monitoring platform for NbS projects
• Collaborate with our interdisciplinary team of ecologists, data scientists, and climate finance specialists

Qualifications

Required:

• Strong background in Remote Sensing, Earth Observation, Ecology, or a related field
• Proficiency in analyzing satellite imagery: preprocessing, classification, segmentation
• Experience with Google Earth Engine, QQIS or ArcGIS and R
• Familiarity with machine learning or statistical analysis methods
• Ability to manage and analyze large, complex datasets
• Strong communication skills (written and verbal)
• Self-directed and comfortable working in a remote, collaborative environment
• Master’s degree (or equivalent experience) in Remote Sensing, Environmental Science, or a related field

Preferred:

• Experience in calibrating and running process-based ecological models (e.g., RothC, Daycent, DNDC) is a plus
• Experience in doing area stratification using remote sensing and other ancillary environmental datasets and other ancillary environmental datasets
• Familiarity with carbon market methodologies or MRV systems
• PhD or active research background is a plus - opportunities to collaborate and publish in peer-reviewed journals are available

Why Join SoilWatch?

• Be part of a growing international team tackling climate change through ecological and technological innovation
• Apply your skills to real-world challenges with tangible environmental and social impact
• Enjoy flexible, remote work arrangements and a collaborative culture focused on integrity, learning, and impact