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- Tasks: Manage and enforce sustainable fishing regulations while engaging with stakeholders.
- Company: Join a dedicated team within the Marine and Fisheries Division in Downpatrick.
- Benefits: Competitive pay, overtime compensation, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on marine conservation and sustainable fisheries management.
- Qualifications: 5 GCSEs and 2 A Levels, plus 2 years of relevant experience required.
- Other info: Dynamic role with potential for career advancement until March 2026.
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: 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) and 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 – Downpatrick employer: The Recruitment Co.
Contact Detail:
The Recruitment Co. Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Fisheries Officer – Downpatrick
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people 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 researching the Marine and Fisheries Division and understanding their current projects. Show them you’re not just another candidate; demonstrate your passion for sustainable fishing and marine conservation.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your responses to common interview questions, especially those related to fisheries management and enforcement. We recommend doing mock interviews with friends or family to build your confidence.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we’re always looking for passionate individuals who want to make a difference in the fisheries sector.
We think you need these skills to ace Fisheries Officer – Downpatrick
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Fisheries Officer role. Highlight your experience in fisheries management and enforcement, and don’t forget to mention any relevant qualifications or skills that match the job description.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re passionate about sustainable fishing and how your background makes you a perfect fit for the Marine and Fisheries Division. Keep it engaging and personal!
Showcase Relevant Experience: When detailing your work history, focus on your experience with fisheries regulations and data reporting. Use specific examples to demonstrate your problem-solving skills and ability to manage complex situations.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother application process. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed by the right people at StudySmarter!
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 these topics confidently will show that you're serious about the role.
✨Show Off Your Data Skills
Since the role involves data reporting and analysis, be prepared to talk about your experience with fisheries data systems. Bring examples of how you've used data in past roles to make decisions or improve processes. This will demonstrate your analytical skills and your ability to contribute to policy development.
✨Engage with Stakeholders
The job requires strong interpersonal skills for stakeholder engagement. Think of examples where you've successfully liaised with different parties, whether it's industry professionals or government departments. Highlighting your communication skills will set you apart from other candidates.
✨Be Ready for Problem-Solving
Expect questions that assess your judgement and decision-making abilities in complex scenarios. Prepare some examples of challenges you've faced in previous roles and how you resolved them. This will showcase your capability to handle the responsibilities of the Fisheries Officer position.