At a Glance
- Tasks: Monitor fishing activities and ensure compliance with marine regulations.
- Company: Welsh Government’s Fisheries Division dedicated to marine conservation.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, training opportunities, and a chance to make a real impact.
- Other info: Opportunity to train as a warranted Marine Enforcement Officer with hands-on support.
- Why this job: Join a passionate team protecting Wales' marine ecosystems and enforcing sustainable practices.
- Qualifications: Strong analytical skills and a passion for marine conservation.
The predicted salary is between 30754 - 34997 € per year.
Salary: EO £30,754 to £34,997
Permanent, Full time (applications are welcome from people who work part time, as part of a job share or who work full time)
Location: South West Wales
Main office base: Milford Haven
Purpose of post
The Control & Enforcement Branch within the Welsh Government’s Fisheries Division is essential to the protection of Wales’s marine environment. Operating under the guidance of the Wales Fisheries Strategy, this team oversees all matters related to fish, fishing activities, and fisheries enforcement, with a particular emphasis on sea fishing policy, industry engagement, and cross-border collaboration across the UK and Europe.
About the Role
As a member of the Welsh Fisheries Monitoring Centre (WFMC), you will play an integral role in marine surveillance and regulatory compliance. Your responsibilities will ensure that fishing operations in Welsh waters—by both domestic and foreign vessels—are conducted legally, sustainably, and within the required regulatory framework.
Primary duties include:
- Monitoring vessel activity and statutory data across all sectors
- Supporting trade through catch certificate processing
- Preventing illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing
- Managing vessel licensing and contributing to UK-wide marine intelligence initiatives
Additionally, you will provide support to Fishery Patrol Vessels as needed, which may involve participating in weekend shifts as part of a rota system.
Wider Enforcement Duties
Coastal enforcement operations. This position offers the opportunity to meaningfully contribute to the preservation of Wales' marine ecosystems, collaborate closely with key industry and governmental stakeholders, and join a team committed to integrity, sustainability, and public service.
Key responsibilities
- Monitoring commercial fishing activity in the Welsh Zone using Vessel Monitoring Systems and statutory data submissions.
- Validating catch certificates for the export of fisheries products to the EU, ensuring compliance with international trade regulations.
- Providing real-time operational support to Fishery Patrol Vessels at sea.
- Handling sensitive intelligence with appropriate security clearances.
- Investigating breaches of fisheries legislation and preparing evidence and case files for enforcement action.
- Managing port state control issues, including oversight of UK and foreign vessels landing in Wales or abroad.
- Administering Financial Administrative Penalties and managing investigation files for the branch.
- Sharing intelligence with devolved administrations and prioritising Illegal, Unregulated, and Unreported (IUU) fishing activity.
- Analysing statutory data to inform enforcement and policy decisions.
- Monitoring quota uptake by non-UK vessels operating in Welsh waters.
- Managing dispensation requests and contributing to vessel licensing processes for both domestic and foreign vessels.
This role is ideal for candidates with a strong analytical mindset, attention to detail, and a passion for marine conservation and compliance. You’ll be part of a collaborative team working to uphold the integrity of Wales’ fisheries and marine environment.
Pathway to Becoming a Marine Enforcement Officer
This role offers a unique opportunity to train and qualify as a warranted Marine Enforcement Officer. You’ll receive structured, hands‑on training over approximately 12 months, supported by experienced mentors. Training includes:
- Enforcement procedures and marine legislation
- Specialist modules such as the Police and Criminal Evidence Act (PACE)
- Courses delivered across the UK, often in collaboration with partner agencies
This is an excellent opportunity for individuals looking to build a career in marine protection, enforcement, and public service — with full support to develop the skills and qualifications needed for success.
Closing date: 10/06/2026, 16:00
Marine Enforcement Officer – Welsh Fisheries Monitoring Centre employer: Welsh Government / Llywodraeth Cymru
The Welsh Government’s Fisheries Division is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity to contribute to the protection of Wales's marine environment while working in a collaborative and supportive team. With a strong focus on employee growth, you will receive structured training to become a qualified Marine Enforcement Officer, alongside competitive benefits and a commitment to work-life balance in the beautiful setting of South West Wales.
Contact Detail:
Welsh Government / Llywodraeth Cymru Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Marine Enforcement Officer – Welsh Fisheries Monitoring Centre
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the team and the role! Research the Welsh Fisheries Monitoring Centre and understand their mission. This will help you tailor your conversations during interviews and show that you're genuinely interested in marine conservation.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Connect with current or former Marine Enforcement Officers on LinkedIn. Ask them about their experiences and any tips they might have for you. It’s all about making those connections that could lead to opportunities!
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for situational questions! Think about scenarios related to fisheries enforcement and how you would handle them. This shows your analytical mindset and attention to detail, which are key for this role.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We want to see your application, so make sure you submit it directly. It’s the best way to ensure it gets into the right hands and shows your enthusiasm for joining our team.
We think you need these skills to ace Marine Enforcement Officer – Welsh Fisheries Monitoring Centre
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your skills and experiences align with the role of Marine Enforcement Officer. We want to see your passion for marine conservation and compliance shine through!
Showcase Relevant Experience:If you've got any experience in monitoring, enforcement, or marine-related fields, be sure to mention it! We love seeing candidates who can demonstrate their understanding of fisheries legislation and marine ecosystems.
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, keep it straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so avoid jargon and make sure your key points stand out. This will help us see your qualifications quickly!
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our official website! It’s the best way to ensure we receive your details directly and can process your application efficiently.
How to prepare for a job interview at Welsh Government / Llywodraeth Cymru
✨Know Your Marine Legislation
Familiarise yourself with the key marine legislation and policies relevant to fisheries enforcement in Wales. Understanding the Wales Fisheries Strategy and how it impacts your role will show your commitment and readiness to contribute effectively.
✨Demonstrate Analytical Skills
Prepare examples that showcase your analytical mindset. Think about times when you've had to interpret data or make decisions based on evidence, as this role heavily relies on monitoring and analysing fishing activities.
✨Show Passion for Marine Conservation
Express your enthusiasm for marine conservation during the interview. Share any personal experiences or projects related to environmental protection, as this will resonate well with the values of the Welsh Fisheries Monitoring Centre.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Anticipate scenario-based questions that may test your problem-solving abilities in real-world situations. Consider how you would handle illegal fishing activities or manage compliance issues, as these are critical aspects of the role.
