Senior Inshore Fisheries and Conservation Officer (Skipper) in Shoreham-by-Sea

Senior Inshore Fisheries and Conservation Officer (Skipper) in Shoreham-by-Sea

Shoreham-by-Sea Full-Time 36363 - 39862 £ / year (est.) No working from home possible
Sussex Inshore Fisheries & Conservation Authority

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead vessel operations and enforce marine conservation along the beautiful Sussex coast.
  • Company: Join Sussex IFCA, a key player in sustainable fisheries management.
  • Benefits: Competitive salary, training opportunities, and a 10% uplift for operational duties.
  • Other info: Work with a small team and enjoy significant operational responsibility.
  • Why this job: Make a real difference in marine conservation while enjoying varied work at sea and on land.
  • Qualifications: Experience in vessel operation and leadership, plus a passion for marine conservation.

The predicted salary is between 36363 - 39862 £ per year.

Salary

£36,363 - £39,862 per annum (pay award pending) plus 10% uplift (excluding allowances)

Location

Shoreham-by-Sea, West Sussex

Contract

Full-Time, Permanent

Closing Date

  • Monday 31 August 2026
  • Sussex IFCA is seeking an experienced maritime professional to join the Authority as a

Senior Inshore Fisheries and Conservation Officer (Skipper) .

Based in Shoreham Harbour, this role combines vessel operations, fisheries enforcement and marine conservation work across the Sussex coast.

Working both at sea and ashore, you will support the management of inshore fisheries and Marine Protected Areas, undertake enforcement activities and assist with the operation of Sussex IFCA's patrol and survey vessels.

About Sussex IFCA

Sussex IFCA is one of ten Inshore Fisheries and Conservation Authorities in England.

We are responsible for the sustainable management of inshore fisheries and the protection of the marine environment along the Sussex coast, from Chichester Harbour through to Rye Harbour and out to six nautical miles offshore.

The Role

As a Senior IFCO (Skipper), you will

  • Assist with the operation, maintenance and deployment of Sussex IFCA's patrol and survey vessels.
  • Lead crew members during patrol, enforcement and survey activities.
  • Undertake inspections of fishing vessels and fishing activities.
  • Enforce fisheries and marine conservation legislation.
  • Collect evidence, intelligence and fisheries data.
  • Contribute to monitoring, survey and conservation projects.
  • Work closely with the fishing industry, partner organisations and local communities.

About You

You will have

  • Experience operating vessels professionally, including RIB handling.
  • Strong seamanship, navigation and vessel safety knowledge.
  • Experience leading staff or small teams.
  • Good communication and interpersonal skills.
  • The ability to work confidently in challenging situations.
  • Knowledge of, or interest in, fisheries management and marine conservation.
  • A full UK driving licence.
  • Applicants should hold an
  • RYA Yachtmaster Offshore Certificate (or equivalent)
  • . Applications will also be considered from candidates who hold an

RYA Advanced Powerboat Certificate (or equivalent) and are willing to work towards the Yachtmaster Offshore qualification within two years of appointment.

Why Join Sussex IFCA?

  • A varied role combining vessel operations, enforcement, monitoring and survey work.
  • Opportunities for training and professional development.
  • Work as part of a small team with significant operational responsibility.
  • Contribute directly to the management of Sussex's inshore fisheries and Marine Protected Areas.
  • Regular vessel operations throughout the Sussex IFCA district.
  • Additional Information
  • The role involves regular work at sea and on land.
  • Weekend working is required as part of operational duties.
  • The post attracts a 10% uplift on basic salary to reflect operational and unsocial hours requirements.
  • Appointment is subject to a Seafarer's Medical (ENG1) and BPSS clearance.
  • The successful candidate must be able to attend Shoreham Harbour within one hour for urgent operational deployments.
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Senior Inshore Fisheries and Conservation Officer (Skipper) in Shoreham-by-Sea employer: Sussex Inshore Fisheries & Conservation Authority

Sussex IFCA is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity to work at the forefront of marine conservation and fisheries management along the beautiful Sussex coast. With a strong commitment to employee development, you will benefit from training opportunities while working in a supportive team environment that values your contributions to sustainable practices. The role not only provides a competitive salary with additional uplifts for operational duties but also allows you to make a meaningful impact on local communities and marine ecosystems.

Sussex Inshore Fisheries & Conservation Authority

Contact Details:

Sussex Inshore Fisheries & Conservation Authority Recruitment Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫

We think this is how you could land Senior Inshore Fisheries and Conservation Officer (Skipper) in Shoreham-by-Sea

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We think you need these skills to ace Senior Inshore Fisheries and Conservation Officer (Skipper) in Shoreham-by-Sea

Vessel Operations
Fisheries Enforcement
Marine Conservation
Seamanship
Navigation
Vessel Safety Knowledge
Team Leadership

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