Fisheries Officer

Job Details

The role of Fisheries Officer is responsible for front line implementation and enforcement of the provisions of the Fisheries Acts, Water Pollution Acts, Water Framework Directive & other relevant statutory provisions, to include the provision of comprehensive conservation, protection, improvement & development services, inland and at sea.

The role of a Fisheries Officer has two main areas of responsibility;

•  Fisheries Protection and;

• Fisheries Conservation and Development.

As a Fisheries Officer you can expect to work collaboratively with an experienced team of Fisheries Officers, Assistant Fisheries Inspectors and Fisheries Inspectors on some of the below; 

• Patrolling and engaging in surveillance activities to check for illegal fishing

• Enforcing the applicable bye-laws and regulations as required

• Contributing to habitat improvement schemes

• Developing and improving fisheries access and angling infrastructure

• Assisting and advising local anglers and other members of the public

• Participating in various community initiatives designed to educate and promote

You can find out more about our work here.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Fisheries Protection

• Patrol lakes, rivers, sea, coast and estuaries to check for check for illegal fishing

• Detect and report pollution, take samples and gather information

• Inspect commercial Salmon & Sea Trout licence holders

• Inspect recreational anglers for licence and/or permit, checking compliance with regulations and bye-laws

• Issue Fixed Penalty Notices

• Apprehend offenders, gather evidence, attend proceedings, give evidence, provide reports for legal advisers

• Operate and maintain boats

• Maintenance of vehicles, RIBs, and surveillance equipment

• Assist with general enquiries from the public

• Communicate with external bodies, i.e. Clubs, Fishery owners etc

• Write reports

• Support team members in stake-outs at night /early morning

• Keep up to date with legislation and relevant scientific and technical developments

Fisheries Development / Maintenance

• Contribute to habitat improvement schemes (including improving fisheries access and infrastructure)

• Conduct research survey work and monitor scientific data

• Electro-fishing and netting including catching, measuring, examining and releasing fish

• Provide assistance for angling festivals and competitions

Requirements

KEY EXPERIENCE 

Essential

• Leaving Certificate (Level 5 NFQ) or recognised equivalent;

• A full Category B driving licence that is valid in Ireland;

• Experienced working on boats OR experience working in an environmental role OR previous experience in a protection role (for example law enforcement/ armed forces/ navy etc)

• No convictions under the Irish Fisheries Legislation;

• Eligible to work in the State;

• Fluent English – both in spoken and written English;

• Good knowledge of computer skills including MS Office;

• Reside close to base (for call-out purposes, successful candidates must reside within at least 60 mins drive of their assigned base location);

• Competent in and on the water (both at sea and in lakes and rivers);

• Demonstrates a passion / strong interest in promoting, protecting and conserving our natural resources.

Desirable

• Experience in a similar environment;

• A full Category BE driving licence that is valid in Ireland and ability to tow trailers;

• Powerboat Level 2;

• Kayaking Level 3;

• Knowledge of fisheries legislation.

Contact Information

APPLICATIONS

A cover letter and up to date Curriculum Vitae) should be submitted by 5.00 pm Wednesday on the 1st of October 2025.

Late applications will not be processed.

Short listing will be based on information provided in the Cover Letter and CV.