4 Jul 2022

Blog: Krzysztof our Geographic Information Systems (GIS) Officer

Krzysztof is one of our GIS Officers. He enjoys learning about new mapping technologies and thinks one of the best things about working for Scottish Forestry is the staff.

If you would like to come and work with us check the latest jobs that are on offer here

Forestry 182

Describe your job in 3 words
Maps. Trees. Future.

What does your role involve?
I work with geographic information. A large part of my role involves digitising map based data and making it available for our staff and stakeholders. I also get involved in quite a lot of projects where I can use my spatial analysis and programming skills to help deliver many of the requests that the GIS team receive.

What does a typical day look like in your role?
There’s 3 of us in a similar position to me so first of all we check if anyone needs help. I might spend my morning digitising spatial data for Forestry Grant Scheme applications. This can be complex and involves bring data together from several places. We've also been really busy on mapping Felling Permissions following recent windblow events. In the afternoon, I may carry out some data management tasks, getting information ready to load up on to our Open Data portal that is available to members of the public.

What is your favourite part of the job?
I think working with people. Scottish Forestry is a great place to be because of the people. They come from different backgrounds with different experiences from different countries as well. The team here have been really friendly and supportive. Working here has given me a lot of confidence.

Forestry 222

What did you do/work as before working with Scottish Forestry?
I was studying cartography (the technique of making maps) and digital maps at the University of Glasgow. After I got my diploma, I joined Scottish Forestry.

What are the best things about working for Scottish Forestry?
The people and development opportunities. I like the way my career has developed here. And also the variety of work. GIS is quickly developing and each year brings something more; different, and new that we have to learn.

What would you want someone to know who’s thinking of applying for a similar role?
Go for it. It’s a great place to work.