At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage and enforce sustainable fishing practices while engaging with stakeholders.
- Company: Join a dedicated team within the Marine and Fisheries Division in Downpatrick.
- Benefits: Competitive pay, potential for overtime, and a chance to make a real impact.
- Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities for professional growth and development.
- Why this job: Be part of protecting marine resources and promoting sustainable fisheries.
- Qualifications: 5 GCSEs and 2 A Levels, plus experience in fisheries management or enforcement.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Our client is looking for a Fisheries Officer to join their team in Downpatrick.
Rate of Pay: £17.43
Start Date: ASAP
Location: Downpatrick
Standard Hours: Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Additional Requirements:
- May be required to work overtime on weekdays or weekends
- Participation in an on-call rota scheme may be necessary
- Overtime will be compensated in line with the NICS Overtime Policy
Duration: Up to March 2026
Role Details:
The Marine and Fisheries Division (MFD), part of the DAERA Environment, Marine and Fisheries Group, is responsible for the promotion, protection, enhancement, and sustainable use of:
- All fish stocks inland and at sea (including aquaculture and fish health)
- The marine environment
MFD provides lead policy advice to the DAERA Minister in respect of the marine environment, inland and sea fisheries, aquaculture, and fish health. The role supports the Marine and Fisheries Division in managing and enforcing sea fisheries regulations to promote sustainable fishing and protect marine resources. Based within the Sea Fisheries Inspectorate, the officer will oversee inspections, enforcement, data reporting, and stakeholder engagement.
Main Duties:
- Deliver fisheries management and enforcement programmes, including vessel inspections and data collection.
- Supervise technical staff and manage operational schedules and resources.
- Provide reports, analyse data, and contribute to policy development.
- Manage health and safety compliance and financial governance.
- Liaise with industry, government departments, and stakeholders.
- Support investigations and enforcement actions, including prosecutions.
- Contribute to sustainable fisheries innovations and regulatory improvements.
- Make autonomous decisions, solve complex problems, and ensure adherence to legislation and procedures.
- Provide input to FOI/EIR responses, ministerial briefings, and legal challenges.
Essential Criteria:
- Minimum of 5 GCSEs (or equivalent) at grade C or above to include Maths, English, and one science-related subject and 2 A Levels.
- 2 years’ experience of fisheries management, fisheries enforcement and legislation, or aquaculture regulation.
- Must hold a full driving licence and be able to drive departmental vehicles across Northern Ireland.
Desired Criteria:
- Broad understanding of departmental business, operational policy, and fisheries regulations (NI, UK, EU).
- Familiarity with fisheries data systems and aquaculture practices.
- Ability to perform inspection and enforcement duties on board fisheries protection vessels.
- Strong judgement and decision-making in complex or sensitive scenarios.
- Experience managing materials for criminal investigations and providing technical advice.
- Awareness of policy development and legislative interpretation.
- Excellent planning, organisational, analytical, and communication skills.
- Ability to identify and communicate improvements in policy or practice.
- Strong interpersonal skills for stakeholder engagement.
Candidates should be aware that the postholder will require a medical and will be required to attend an appointment provided by the Department for a satisfactory MCA Sea Farers Medical Report (ML5) or an ENG1 as appropriate prior to them being appointed.
Fisheries Officer in Downpatrick employer: The Recruitment Co.
As a Fisheries Officer with the Marine and Fisheries Division in Downpatrick, you will be part of a dedicated team committed to promoting sustainable fishing practices and protecting marine resources. The role offers a supportive work culture that values employee growth through hands-on experience in fisheries management and enforcement, alongside opportunities for professional development. With competitive pay and a focus on work-life balance, including standard hours and overtime compensation, this position is ideal for those seeking meaningful employment in environmental conservation.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Fisheries Officer in Downpatrick
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to folks in the fisheries sector, attend local events, and connect with professionals on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your knowledge of fisheries management and regulations. Be ready to discuss your experience with inspections and enforcement, as well as how you can contribute to sustainable fishing practices.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your skills! Bring along examples of your previous work, like reports or data analyses, to demonstrate your expertise during interviews. This will help you stand out and show that you're serious about the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to apply through our website! It's the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive and engaged in their job search.
We think you need these skills to ace Fisheries Officer in Downpatrick
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Fisheries Officer role. Highlight your relevant experience in fisheries management and enforcement, and don’t forget to mention any specific skills that match the job description.
Showcase Your Skills:Use your application to demonstrate your analytical and communication skills. Provide examples of how you've successfully managed projects or engaged with stakeholders in the past. This will help us see how you can contribute to our team.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use clear language and avoid jargon where possible. We appreciate a well-structured application that makes it easy for us to see your qualifications and experience.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy to do!
How to prepare for a job interview at The Recruitment Co.
✨Know Your Fisheries Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of fisheries management and enforcement. Familiarise yourself with the relevant legislation and regulations, especially those specific to Northern Ireland. Being able to discuss recent developments in aquaculture or marine conservation will show that you're genuinely interested in the role.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare to talk about your previous experience in fisheries management or enforcement. Have specific examples ready that demonstrate your ability to handle inspections, data collection, and stakeholder engagement. This is your chance to highlight how your skills align with the job requirements.
✨Be Ready for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that assess your judgement and decision-making skills in complex situations. Think of scenarios where you had to make tough calls or solve problems under pressure. Practising these responses can help you articulate your thought process clearly during the interview.
✨Engage with Stakeholders
Since stakeholder engagement is a key part of the role, be prepared to discuss how you would approach liaising with various parties. Think about your communication style and how you can build relationships with industry representatives and government departments. Showing that you can connect with others will set you apart.
