Inshore Fisheries and Conservation Officer (IFCO)

Inshore Fisheries and Conservation Officer (IFCO)

Eastern IFCA

Location: Lowestoft (district-wide, including sea-going duties)
Salary: £35,042 – £38,068 (includes 7.5% supplement)
Hours: 37 per week
Contract: Permanent
Closing date: 31 July 2026

 

Protect and manage the marine environment

Eastern Inshore Fisheries and Conservation Authority (Eastern IFCA) is seeking an Inshore Fisheries and Conservation Officer (IFCO) to help deliver sustainable fisheries management and marine conservation across Lincolnshire, Norfolk and Suffolk.

This is a varied and rewarding role combining enforcement, stakeholder engagement and fieldwork at sea, offering the opportunity to work at the frontline of environmental protection.

About the role

You will play a key role in delivering enforcement and supporting the sustainable use of marine resources.

Key responsibilities include:

  • Delivering fisheries enforcement ashore and at sea, including investigations and case preparation
  • Acting as crew on Authority vessels, including boarding operations and watchkeeping
  • Gathering and developing intelligence relating to fisheries offences
  • Building relationships with stakeholders, including the fishing industry and local communities
  • Supporting research and survey activity where required
  • Assisting with maintenance of vessels, vehicles and equipment

This is a hands-on role requiring flexibility, professionalism, and the ability to work both independently and as part of a team.

About you

We are looking for someone motivated to work in a practical enforcement and marine environment role.

Essential:

  • Good level of education (GCSE English and Maths or equivalent)
  • Ability to become a warranted enforcement officer
  • Strong communication skills
  • Ability to work effectively in a team and independently
  • IT skills (MS Office)
  • Full UK driving licence
  • Ability to obtain an ENG1 or ML5 medical

Desirable:

  • Experience in enforcement or fisheries
  • Knowledge of marine or fisheries legislation
  • Seagoing or boat handling experience
  • Experience working with stakeholders

Why join us?

  • Work at the frontline of marine conservation and fisheries management
  • Gain experience in enforcement, fieldwork and stakeholder engagement
  • Opportunities for sea-going work and varied operational activity
  • Join a small, professional and supportive team
  • Ongoing training and 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 will operate from the Lowestoft Office (shared accommodation with Marine Management Organisation) but will require travel throughout the district.

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

The deadline for applications is 31 July 2026

Please review the Job Description and apply using our Application Form.

For an informal discussion, contact:
Simon Lee (SIFCO – Regulation) – 07795 343 215

 

 

 

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