Senior Marine Science Officer – Research
Senior Marine Science Officer (Research)
Location: King’s Lynn (with travel across the District and offshore work)
Salary: £43,835 – £48,473 (includes 7.5% supplement)
Hours: 37 hours per week
Contract: Permanent
Closing Date: 31 July 2026
Make a real impact on the marine environment
Eastern IFCA is one of England’s largest Inshore Fisheries and Conservation Authorities, responsible for managing inshore fisheries and protecting the marine environment along the coasts of Lincolnshire, Norfolk and Suffolk.
We are seeking an experienced and motivated Senior Marine Science Officer (Research) to play a leading role in designing and delivering scientific research and evidence that directly informs fisheries management, conservation, and policy decisions across our District.
This is a unique opportunity to combine science, leadership, and real-world impact, working at the interface between research, regulation, and the fishing industry.
About the role
As part of the management team, you will:
- Lead the design and delivery of research, survey, and sampling programmes to support sustainable fisheries and marine conservation
- Provide expert, evidence-based advice to internal teams, Authority Members, and external stakeholders
- Line manage and develop a small team of scientific staff
- Build strong working relationships with fishing communities, regulators, and partners
- Contribute to Marine Protected Area management and Habitats Regulations Assessments
- Support operational activity, including going to sea as crew when required
This is a varied and hands-on role combining leadership, science, fieldwork, and stakeholder engagement.
What we’re looking for
We are looking for someone who can bring both scientific expertise and practical leadership.
Essential:
- Degree (or equivalent) in marine science, environmental science, or related discipline
- Experience of planning and delivering research or monitoring programmes
- Strong understanding of marine/fisheries policy and regulation
- Ability to lead, support, and develop a team
- Excellent communication skills and stakeholder engagement ability
- Willingness to undertake fieldwork and work at sea
Desirable:
- Relevant postgraduate qualification
- Experience in fisheries science or working with the fishing industry
- Experience with shellfish or inshore fisheries
- Experience leading a small team
- Understanding of Habitats Regulations / MPA management
Why join us?
- Work at the forefront of applied marine science with real-world impact
- Influence decisions that directly affect fisheries, habitats, and coastal communities
- Be part of a small, expert, and committed team
- Opportunity for fieldwork, vessel work, and research leadership
- Support for training and professional development
- Benefit from membership of the Local Government Pension Scheme, offering a high-quality, secure pension as part of a strong overall employment package
Additional information
This role includes some unsocial hours (early mornings, evenings, weekends) and occasional offshore work. A salary supplement of 7.5% is included in recognition of this.
The successful candidate will be required to:
- Pass a Baseline Personnel Security Standard check
- Obtain an ENG1 or ML5 medical certificate
Apply now
The deadline for applications is 31 July 2026
Please review the Job Description and apply using our application form.
For an informal discussion, contact:
Luke Godwin (ACO) – 07748 182 027