Geospatial Engineer (m-f-d)

Temporary, Full-time · FSC Global Development GmbH, Bonn, Germany (Hybrid)

The Scope

The Geospatial Engineer will be a key member of FSC’s Information Technology unit, responsible for developing, implementing, and maintaining scalable and interoperable Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and Remote Sensing capabilities. These solutions will support the assessment, monitoring, and evaluation of forestry management standards, ensuring high-quality geospatial insights drive conservation efforts, sustainable forest management, and policy decisions.

This is a hands-on role that requires strong technical expertise in GIS, remote sensing, and spatial data engineering, combined with the ability to interface with business stakeholders and external partners. The Geospatial Engineer will translate complex technical capabilities into practical applications, promoting the broader use of GIS and remote sensing across FSC while ensuring seamless integration with enterprise systems.

As an integral member of the current GIS team within FSC, this role will oversee the full lifecycle of geospatial solutions, including agile design, development, automation, and optimization of geospatial workflows and data pipelines. The Geospatial Engineer will drive efficiencies, enhance interoperability, and ensure that FSC’s GIS products deliver value, accuracy, and quality for internal teams and external collaborators.

Main Roles & Responsibilities

Design, develop, and manage GIS and remote sensing solutions for forestry management, ensuring system flexibility, scalability, and interoperability.
Build and maintain scalable, loosely coupled data pipelines using ESRI technologies (ArcGIS Online, ArcGIS Enterprise) to integrate forestry, natural resource, and operational datasets.
Develop and maintain geospatial databases, data models, and schemas, ensuring high data quality, integrity, and compliance with data governance standards.
Ensure seamless integration of diverse geospatial data sources while maintaining compliance with privacy regulations (e.g., GDPR) and industry standards.
Automate spatial data workflows to enhance data processing, analysis, and visualization, supporting field data collection via GPS, UAVs, and mobile GIS applications.
Conduct spatial analysis and modeling to support sustainable forest management, climate impact assessments, and biodiversity conservation.
Integrate remote sensing technologies (satellite imagery, LiDAR) to enhance geospatial analysis and monitoring capabilities.
Develop custom mapping solutions and GIS applications, ensuring compatibility with web-based and enterprise GIS platforms.
Perform GIS data quality assurance/quality control (QA/QC), ensuring accuracy and reliability in spatial data products.
Support cross-functional teams by providing geospatial mapping, visualization, and reporting for internal stakeholders, external partners, and decision-makers.
Research and evaluate emerging GIS technologies, data sources, and algorithms to improve system capabilities and efficiency.
Act as a technical liaison with business stakeholders, external consultants, and vendors (e.g., Esri, GIS/remote sensing providers) to align GIS strategies with organizational goals.
Create and maintain documentation related to GIS system architecture, workflows, and operational procedures.
Train and support staff in GIS and remote sensing tools and methodologies, fostering adoption and ensuring accessibility for non-technical stakeholders.
Develop business cases and present technical solutions for a global audience, emphasizing GIS applications within FSC certification and sustainable forestry markets.

Your profile

Education and Training 

Bachelor's or Master’s degree in GIS, Geography, Geospatial Engineering, Forestry, Remote Sensing, Computer Science, or a related field.
Professional GIS certifications (e.g., Esri Technical Certification, GISP) are expected and encouraged.
Training and certifications in enabling technical product capabilities (e.g., Certified Scrum Product Owner, Agile Product Owner) are a plus.

Working Experience Style and Skills 

Strong knowledge of remote sensing techniques and tools such as Google Earth Engine, ENVI, or ERDAS for satellite imagery and LiDAR analysis.
Proficiency in spatial databases (PostGIS, SQL Server) and experience managing scalable geospatial data pipelines.
Experience with Python, R, or other scripting languages for automating GIS workflows and performing advanced geospatial analysis.
Familiarity with web GIS technologies (ArcGIS Online and Enterprise, OpenLayers, Mapbox) and their integration into enterprise solutions.
Experience integrating GIS with operational systems (e.g., Microsoft Dynamics, Salesforce) using APIs, ETL processes, or middleware solutions to ensure secure and seamless data exchange.
Strong communication skills, with the ability to translate complex GIS concepts for non-technical stakeholders and drive broader adoption of geospatial solutions.

Leadership 

Ability to lead and support GIS initiatives within the technology unit and align them with business needs.
Strong project management skills, including task identification and prioritization, budgeting, and stakeholder coordination.
Excellent communication and training skills to educate non-GIS professionals and promote GIS adoption.
Ability to work collaboratively with multidisciplinary teams, including scientists, policymakers, external collaborators, technology teams, and field personnel.
Passion for forest conservation and sustainability efforts.
Strong ability to encourage teams’ autonomy, create clarity in expectations, and empower team members to take ownership of their individual work contributions, while aligning with related work streams to ensure high quality outcomes. 
Drive to ensure and insist that all GIS related decisions are made with a high degree of integrity, aligning with the FSC’s values and ethical standards.

Technical Skills 

Expertise in GIS software, particularly ArcGIS Environment (ArcGIS Pro, ArcGIS Enterprise, ArcGIS Online), with experience in QGIS or open-source GIS tools is a plus.
Spatial data processing and analysis – Proficiency in ArcGIS Pro, ArcGIS Online, QGIS, and GRASS GIS .
Remote Sensing Tools – Experience with Google Earth Engine, ENVI, and ERDAS Imagine for satellite imagery, LiDAR and other emerging technologies.
Exposure to, and experience, with AI applications relevant to spatial and remote sensing capabilities are a plus.
Programming & Scripting – Strong proficiency in Python, , JavaScript, and SQL for geospatial analysis, automation, and data processing.
Spatial Database Management – Expertise in PostgreSQL (PostGIS), SQL Server, for managing and optimizing geospatial data.
Custom Web GIS & Mapping Applications – Familiarity with ArcGIS API for JavaScript, ArcGIS API for Python, Leaflet, Mapbox, and OpenLayers for developing interactive and web-based GIS solutions.
Cloud-Based GIS Solutions – Experience with Azure and Google Cloud for scalable GIS infrastructure, data storage, and processing.
Enterprise & Operational System Integration – Experience integrating GIS with Microsoft Dynamics, Salesforce, and other operational platforms using APIs, ETL workflows, and middleware solutions.
GPS & UAV Mapping – Hands-on experience with GPS and UAV (drone) mapping tools for field data collection and integration into GIS workflows.
Data Visualization & Reporting – Proficiency in ArcGIS Dashboard, Business Analyst for creating geospatial reports, dashboards, and visualizations.

Language and Communication Skills 

Fluency in English; proficiency in Spanish and/or French is a plus. 
Strong verbal and written communication skills, capable of driving alignment and collaboration across diverse teams.

Others 

Commitment to FSC’s mission and values. 
Cultural awareness and sensitivity in a diverse, global team setting.

Why us?

Why Join FSC in Bonn, Germany?

Be part of a globally recognized organization at the forefront of sustainable forestry and contribute to the mission to help protect the world’s forests.
Play an active role in the FSC global community of 400+ forest stewards who come together in-person at least once a year.
Benefit from cross-cultural collaboration and networking opportunities by working in a dynamic, inclusive, and diverse international culture with over 60 nationalities represented under one roof.
Enjoy comprehensive benefits, including relocation assistance if needed, and investment in training and development opportunities (e.g., LinkedIn Learning, Learning Lunches and more) to advance your career.
Explore the vibrant federal city of Bonn, home to Beethoven, Haribo, and the beautiful Rhein River promenade including many urban parks and close access to nature. As Germany's UN City and second capital, Bonn is an international city with a rich cultural heritage, recently celebrating its 2000th anniversary. Learn more about the city or take a virtual stroll.
Embrace work-life balance: beyond Bonn's borders, unlock Europe's wonders with 30 working days of vacation at your disposal. Whether it's skiing in the Swiss Alps or basking in the sun on Mediterranean shores, your European adventures await.

Ready to make a difference? Join FSC and help shape a sustainable future. Apply now with your resume and cover letter, showcasing your achievements and how you can contribute to FSC's mission.

The Fine Print

Location: Bonn, Germany.
Working Hours: Full time - 40 hours per week.
Duration of Employment: Temporary contract - 2 years (extension possible, subject to satisfactory performance).
Starting Date: As soon as possible.

How to Apply
Ready to make a difference? Join FSC and help shape a sustainable future. Don't delay - apply now!

Please apply by submitting your CV in English.
Please do not send any photos of yourself.
The deadline for applications is 4 May 2025.

For FSC, inclusiveness and diversity are important values. As such, we welcome and encourage applications from all backgrounds and are entirely committed to consider all qualified applicants regardless of race, gender, sexual orientation, religion, ethnicity, age and disability.

We will confirm receipt of your application. Should you not receive a confirmation of receipt please check your spam filter and if you cannot find it there contact us at careers@fsc.org

Please be informed, that by applying for this position you automatically accept our Data Protection Information on processing your personal data.

We are looking forward to your application!

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About us

Welcome to FSC!

The Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) is a globally recognized non-profit organization at the forefront of promoting sustainable forestry. With over 150 million hectares of certified forests and a trusted reputation among NGOs, consumers, and businesses, FSC is leading the way in ensuring the long-term health and resilience of the world’s forests.

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Thank you for your interest in FSC. Please fill out the following short form. Should you have difficulties with the upload of your data, please send an email to recruitment@fsc.org.