Job Title

Are you passionate about moths, butterflies, and data management? We are partnering with Butterfly Conservation to find a talented Biological Data Officer to join their team and support the UK Recording Scheme databases, including the National Moth Recording Scheme and Butterflies for the New Millennium databases. This is a fantastic opportunity for someone who is excited about combining biological science, data management, and conservation efforts. What Youll Do:As a Biological Data Officer, you will play a key role in managing and maintaining essential species occurrence data, ensuring its accurate, accessible, and properly validated. You will work closely with County Recorders, volunteers, and Butterfly Conservation teams to support the processing and sharing of moth and butterfly data. Key responsibilities include:Data Collation & Management: Collate and manage local datasets of moth and butterfly records, ensuring they are integrated seamlessly into the UK Recording Scheme databases, using a variety of formats and sources.Data Analysis & Processing: Develop and implement procedures for data storage, manipulation, validation, and export.Documentation & Procedures: Maintain clear, up-to-date procedures that ensure compliance with biological recording standards.Support & Guidance: Provide technical support to staff, volunteers, and County Recorders, helping them with data storage, validation, verification, and analysis.Training & Advocacy: Support staff, volunteers, and partners in using Butterfly Conservations recording systems and advocate for the organisations data policies.Promotion & Representation: Help raise awareness about moths, butterflies, and conservation efforts through talks, social media, and at events such as conferences and exhibitions. What Were Looking For:Were seeking a candidate with a passion for both biology and data management who is eager to make an impact in biodiversity conservation. The ideal candidate will have:Experience with Large Databases: Extensive experience in managing large datasets, including data import/export in different formats, data storage, security, manipulation, reporting, and analysis.Database Systems Expertise: Strong experience in setting up, maintaining, and reviewing computer systems, particularly databases, and improving protocols for data management, import/export, and interoperability.Technical Expertise: At least two years of relevant experience in data management, specifically handling large volumes of wildlife observation data.SQL Skills: Proficiency in SQL and experience with PostgreSQL/PostGIS.Data Manipulation: Strong data manipulation skills, with the ability to analyse complex datasets effectively.Administrative Skills: Solid administrative skills, including experience working in office or remote/virtual environments.Technical Support: Proven experience providing technical support to colleagues, especially those with less technical expertise.Additionally, you should be a resourceful problem-solver with considerable experience in relational databases and SQL, as well as defining validation and data cleaning protocols. Youll be familiar with best practices for data standards and regulatory considerations. In this role, you will also be working with a diverse group of volunteers across the UK who use different software systems, which means experience in integrating multiple datasets into a national database will be key. Your ability to guide and support others in data management and collaboration will be essential. Why You Should Apply:Make a Difference: Play a pivotal role in protecting moths and butterflies through data-driven conservation efforts. Work with Experts: Collaborate with passionate colleagues and partner organisations dedicated to conservation excellence.Flexible Working: Enjoy the benefits of flexible working options to suit your lifestyle. Professional Development: Opportunities for growth and career development in both the biological and conservation sectors. Location: Flexible / Remote with occasional travel to key events and partner organisations.If youre ready to apply your love for nature and expertise in data management, apply now and join Butterfly Conservations mission to protect moths, butterflies, and biodiversity!