Marine Enforcement Officer

Salary range or pay band: EO £30,754 to £34,997

Closing date: 24/09/2026, 16:00

Permanent, Full time (applications are welcome from people who work part time, as part of a job share or who work full time)

Location(s): South West Wales

Main office base: Milford Haven

Purpose of post

Join a dynamic national team working at the heart of Wales’ marine environment. This role offers a unique opportunity to make a real impact by protecting our seas and supporting sustainable fisheries. You’ll deliver statutory services on behalf of the Welsh Government, supporting the Welsh fishing community, carrying out inspections and, where necessary, enforcement activities across the fishing industry and marine construction within Wales.

What You’ll Do

• Protect Wales’ marine resources by enforcing fisheries legislation.
• Monitor fish landings at local ports for compliance and verify logbooks and landing declarations.
• Investigate and gather evidence for potential prosecutions, including preparing case files and, where required, giving evidence in court.
• Plan and enforce intertidal fisheries (e.g., hand gathering of cockles, shore netting).
• Spend time at sea on one of the Welsh Government’s Fisheries Patrol Vessels, conducting enforcement activities and safeguarding marine habitats.

Why This Role is Exciting

• Variety and challenge – no two days are the same, from port inspections to patrols at sea.
• Impactful work – play a key role in protecting Wales’ marine environment and supporting sustainable fishing practices.
• Professional development – gain specialist enforcement experience and work alongside experts in marine and fisheries management.
• Team culture – be part of a supportive, national team committed to high standards and collaboration.

Key Responsibilities

• Shape and enforce fisheries plans – Implement strategies for commercial fisheries and ensure compliance both at sea and ashore.
• Protect marine environments – Enforce regulations to safeguard habitats and biodiversity.
• Gather intelligence and evidence – Monitor fishing activities, collect data, and, where required, conduct investigations under the Police and Criminal Evidence Act. Prepare case files and, when required, give evidence in court.
• Provide expert advice – Offer technical guidance to policy teams on fishing operations, fish distribution, processing, and marine issues.
• Engage and collaborate – Work closely with the fishing industry, Welsh Government teams, Law Enforcement, Natural Resources Wales, and other statutory bodies.
• Patrol and enforce at sea – Undertake seagoing patrols on Welsh Government Fisheries Patrol Vessels and operate shore-launched craft for coastal enforcement.

Development opportunities

This role offers a clear pathway to becoming a fully warranted Marine Enforcement Officer. You’ll receive comprehensive training and close supervision over approximately 12 months, including intensive courses covering a wide range of enforcement and marine activities. This is a fantastic opportunity to gain specialist skills and qualifications that are highly valued in the maritime sector.

What We Provide

• Structured training programme – Learn from experienced officers and industry experts.
• Hands-on experience – Combine classroom learning with practical enforcement duties.
• Professional qualifications – Achieve recognised certifications essential for marine enforcement.

What You’ll Need

• Ability to pass an ENG1 Seafarers Medical within your 6-month probation period.
• Ability to complete STCW Personal Survival Techniques training as well as a number of other training courses within the same timeframe.