Expedition Analyst | Logistics, Planning & Data

🎯 Role Definition

Are you a master of logistics with a passion for exploration? Do you thrive on transforming complex data into actionable, real-world plans? As our Expedition Analyst, you will be the critical link between our ambitious goals and on-the-ground reality. You will be responsible for the end-to-end analytical and logistical planning of unique expeditions, from initial concept feasibility to post-trip performance review. This role requires a unique blend of quantitative analysis, creative problem-solving, and a deep understanding of the challenges of operating in remote and demanding environments. You will be the architect of adventure, ensuring every detail is considered and every contingency is planned for.

📈 Career Progression

Typical Career Path

Entry Point From:

Logistics Coordinator or Analyst
Data Analyst (with interest in operations/geography)
Research Assistant (fieldwork-focused)
Adventure Travel Consultant or Planner

Advancement To:

Senior Expedition Analyst
Expedition Manager or Director
Director of Operations
Head of Logistics & Planning

Lateral Moves:

Project Manager
Risk Management Specialist
Supply Chain Analyst

Core Responsibilities

Primary Functions

Conduct in-depth geospatial analysis using GIS software to design, evaluate, and optimize primary and secondary expedition routes, considering terrain, accessibility, and environmental factors.
Develop highly detailed, day-by-day itineraries that integrate operational logistics, team activities, and safety checkpoints for the entire expedition lifecycle.
Perform comprehensive, multi-faceted risk assessments for new and existing destinations, analyzing geopolitical stability, environmental hazards, health risks, and infrastructure reliability.
Design and document robust contingency plans for a wide range of scenarios, including medical emergencies, equipment failure, political unrest, and extreme weather events.
Develop, manage, and meticulously track expedition budgets, performing cost-benefit analysis on logistical options and ensuring adherence to financial targets.
Source, vet, and manage relationships with a global network of vendors, including local guides, transportation providers, and accommodation services, ensuring quality and reliability.
Oversee the complex process of securing all necessary permits, visas, and documentation required for team members and equipment to operate legally in multiple jurisdictions.
Coordinate complex supply chain and logistical movements of specialized equipment, scientific instruments, and provisions, including customs clearance and last-mile delivery to remote sites.
Analyze historical and forecast data, such as weather patterns, tidal charts, and seasonal conditions, to inform strategic planning and mitigate operational risks.
Generate and present post-expedition analytical reports, evaluating performance against key metrics, identifying lessons learned, and providing data-driven recommendations for future improvements.
Maintain and continuously update a comprehensive internal database of routes, vendors, risk assessments, and local contacts to institutionalize knowledge.
Develop, implement, and champion rigorous safety and emergency response protocols in collaboration with medical and security advisors to ensure the highest standard of care.
Prepare and deliver detailed pre-expedition briefing materials and presentations for expedition leaders, team members, and executive stakeholders.
Monitor real-time progress of active expeditions using satellite tracking, remote sensors, and communication systems, providing shoreside support and dynamic re-planning as needed.
Manage the international shipping and customs logistics for sensitive and high-value equipment, ensuring full compliance with import/export regulations.
Conduct thorough feasibility studies for proposed new expedition concepts, presenting findings on logistical viability, budget projections, and overall risk.
Forecast critical resource requirements, including fuel, food, water, and medical supplies, by building models based on itinerary, team size, and environmental conditions.
Evaluate and recommend new technologies for field communication, navigation, and data collection to enhance operational efficiency and safety.
Author detailed cost-benefit analyses for major logistical decisions, such as chartering aircraft versus utilizing ground transport, to guide strategic investments.
Ensure all planned expedition activities are in strict compliance with local, national, and international laws, as well as environmental and cultural heritage regulations.
Collaborate with the training department to develop and deliver logistics-focused training modules for field staff and expedition leaders.

Secondary Functions

Support ad-hoc data requests and exploratory data analysis.
Contribute to the organization's data strategy and roadmap.
Collaborate with business units to translate data needs into engineering requirements.
Participate in sprint planning and agile ceremonies within the data engineering team.

Required Skills & Competencies

Hard Skills (Technical)

Geospatial Analysis: High proficiency with GIS software (ArcGIS, QGIS) for route planning, terrain analysis, and data visualization.
Data Analysis & Modeling: Advanced skills in Microsoft Excel or Google Sheets (pivot tables, complex formulas, modeling) and experience with data visualization tools (Tableau, Power BI).
Logistics & Supply Chain: Strong understanding of global logistics, freight forwarding, customs procedures, and supply chain management principles.
Project Management: Demonstrated ability to manage complex projects with multiple dependencies using software like Asana, Jira, or similar platforms.
Budgeting & Financial Acumen: Experience in creating, managing, and tracking detailed budgets and performing financial forecasting.
Database Querying: Foundational knowledge of SQL for querying and extracting data from relational databases.
Risk Assessment Methodologies: Familiarity with formal risk assessment frameworks and mitigation planning.

Soft Skills

Meticulous Attention to Detail: An obsessive focus on accuracy and thoroughness in planning, data entry, and documentation.
Creative Problem-Solving: The ability to think critically and develop innovative solutions to complex logistical puzzles, often under pressure.
Exceptional Organization: World-class organizational and time-management skills with the ability to prioritize and manage numerous projects simultaneously.
Clear Communication: Ability to communicate complex logistical and analytical information clearly and concisely to diverse audiences, both written and verbal.
Adaptability & Resilience: Thrives in a fast-paced environment and remains calm, flexible, and effective in the face of ambiguity and unexpected changes.
Cross-Cultural Awareness: Sensitivity and understanding when working with international partners, vendors, and government agencies.

Education & Experience

Educational Background

Minimum Education:

Bachelor's Degree in a relevant field.

Preferred Education:

Master's Degree in a relevant field or an equivalent combination of experience and specialized training.

Relevant Fields of Study:

Logistics & Supply Chain Management
Geography or Geospatial Science
Data Science / Business Analytics
International Relations
Operations Management

Experience Requirements

Typical Experience Range:

3-5 years of experience in a logistics, operations planning, or data analysis role.

Preferred:

Direct experience in expedition planning, remote-location logistics, military operational planning, scientific field research coordination, or complex adventure travel operations is highly desirable. A proven track record of managing logistics in challenging or austere environments will set you apart.