Biodiversity Data and Projects Officer
Overview
We are passionate about protecting and enhancing biodiversity across Buckinghamshire and Milton Keynes through the collection, analysis and application of environmental data.
Are you enthusiastic about biodiversity data and biological recording? Do you want to make a difference through data, conservation projects and species-focused work? Do you have species identification skills?
An exciting opportunity has arisen for a Biodiversity Data and Projects Officer to join the Buckinghamshire and Milton Keynes Environmental Records Centre (BMERC). This role combines specialist ecological and species knowledge with technical data processing and reporting skills to help deliver key projects and strategic objectives.
If you are looking for a varied role where you can make a meaningful contribution to nature conservation, we would be pleased to hear from you.
About the Role
You will become an expert user of our new Orca environmental records database, developing knowledge of the full data lifecycle, including data collation, import, quality assurance, verification, reporting and analysis. This work will support BMERC’s environmental records service and data exchange agreements.
You will also manage and deliver a variety of projects, ranging from surveys of specialist local species to the development of GIS mapping resources for volunteer recorder groups. Strong project management and stakeholder engagement skills will be important for successful delivery.
The role is based at the Council Offices in Aylesbury, with hybrid working available for up to three days per week. Some field visits and survey work may also be required.
About the Team
BMERC’s mission is to provide a high-performing, sustainable environmental records service that supports the protection of biodiversity, habitats, and sites of biological and geological importance across Buckinghamshire and Milton Keynes.
The team manages an environmental database containing more than 3.6 million records and undertakes a wide range of activities, including data management, project delivery, volunteer training and support, stakeholder engagement, landowner advice, specialist ecological surveys, and recommendations on Local Wildlife Site designation.
BMERC is one of five environmental specialist teams within the Planning and Environment Service and works closely with the Council’s Ecology Team. We maintain records of flora, fauna, designated and non-designated wildlife and geological sites, wildlife corridors, Road Verge Nature Reserves, Habitats of Principal Importance and other priority conservation areas.
Working with us offers the opportunity to make a lasting positive impact on wildlife and people across Buckinghamshire and Milton Keynes.
About You
We are looking for an enthusiastic, self-motivated individual who can work independently and as part of a team. You will have experience in a relevant professional field and specialist knowledge of environmental data, species taxonomy and identification.
You will be passionate about wildlife conservation, biological recording and effective data management, with a commitment to collaborative working with colleagues, stakeholders and the public. Strong ICT skills and an interest in GIS technologies are essential.
You will hold a full driving licence and be able to work across Buckinghamshire and Milton Keynes when required. You will also be organised, able to prioritise competing demands and capable of meeting deadlines.
Other information
Please apply via the following link:
Closing Date: 6th September
Shortlisted applicants will be notified and interviewed from the week commencing 21st September. Interviews are in-person and include a botanical field survey test and a formal interview.
For further details, contact Philip Simpkin, Ecology & BMERC Team Leader, on 01494 421829 or philip.simpkin@buckinghamshire.gov.uk.