Inland Fisheries Ireland are excited to launch our 2026 Seasonal Recruitment campaign.
We have various opportunities available nationwide for Seasonal Fisheries Officers which would be well suited to those who have an interest in protecting, managing and conserving Ireland’s inland fisheries and sea angling resources.
Fisheries Officers are responsible for front line implementation and enforcement of the provisions of the Fisheries Acts, Water Pollution Acts, Water Framework Directive and other relevant statutory provisions. The role includes the provision of comprehensive conservation, protection, improvement & development services, inland and at sea.
ABOUT US
Inland Fisheries Ireland are the environmental agency responsible for protecting, managing and conserving Ireland's inland fisheries and sea angling resources.
More information can be found by visiting our website.
VISION, MISSION & VALUES
Vision
To place the inland fisheries resource in the best sustainable position possible for the benefit of future generations.
Mission
To protect, manage and conserve Ireland’s inland fisheries and sea angling resources and to maximise their sustainability and natural biodiversity.
Values
We work collaboratively with professionalism
We are open, transparent and accountable
We act with respect and integrity
We are committed to stewardship and sustainability
THE JOB
The role of a Seasonal Fisheries Officer has two main areas of responsibility;
Fisheries Protection
Fisheries Conservation and Development
The following attempts to outline in a broad sense the key areas of responsibility associated with a Fisheries Officer post. However, other responsibilities may arise as the requirements of our environment and stakeholders change over time.
A Seasonal Fisheries Officer with a focus on Fisheries Protection can expect to work collaboratively with an experienced team of Fisheries Officers, Assistant Fisheries Inspectors and Fisheries Inspectors on some of the below;
Foot, vehicle and boat patrols on/along lakes, rivers, sea, coast and estuaries to check for illegal fishing
Covert and overt surveillance activities to check for illegal fishing
Enforcement of the applicable bye-laws and regulations as required
Prosecution of offenders, including giving evidence and testifying in court
You can find out more about our Fisheries Protection here.
This is predominantly an outdoors role and candidates should be comfortable working outside in all weather conditions and on/near bodies of water.
Please note that Seasonal Fisheries Officers work a 39-hour week and this will include weekends, evenings, early morning and late nights.
We expect to hold interviews for this role in March 2026.
We expect that successful candidates will start work in mid to late April 2026.
Successful candidates will take part in a training programme at the commencement of their contracts. This programme will provide our new recruits with the necessary accredited training to build the skills needed to carry out the responsibilities of the role.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
Fisheries Protection
Patrol lakes, rivers, sea, coast and estuaries to 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 if appropriate
Apprehend offenders, gather evidence, attend proceedings, give evidence and provide reports for legal advisers, in line with the prescribed IFI prosecution procedure
Assist with general enquiries from the public
Operate and maintain boats
Provide shore cover and/or act as a crew member for local IFI protection staff on RIB patrols in the area
Maintain and upkeep vehicles, RIBs, and surveillance equipment
Support team members in stake‑outs at night/early morning
Fisheries Conservation & Development
Contribute to habitat improvement schemes (including improving fisheries access and infrastructure)
Conduct research survey work
Monitor scientific data
Conduct electro‑fishing and netting
Catch, measure, examine and release fish (assessing their health)
Communicate with & develop good relationships with relevant stakeholders, such as; An Garda Síochána, Angling Clubs, Fishermen, Community Development Groups, and other statutory agencies etc.
Provide assistance for angling festivals and competitions
Write reports and keep records updated as required
Keep up to date with legislation and relevant scientific and technical developments
Undertake all other duties and responsibilities as may be assigned from time to time by the Inspector or nominee
KEY EXPERIENCE & QUALIFICATIONS
Essential
Leaving Certificate (Level 5 NFQ) or recognised equivalent
A full Category B driving licence that is valid in Ireland
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
KEY PERSONAL ATTRIBUTES
Ability to form effective working relationships with team members, members of the public and IFI’s external stakeholders
Excellent communication skills
Flexible approach to work and hours
Can meet the travel requirements of the post. Prepared to work outside of normal hours as necessary
Commitment to the job and demonstrates self‑motivation
GARDA VETTING
Please note that the successful candidate will need to go through a Garda Vetting process and complete safeguarding training before they can take up their role.
By applying for this role, you give Inland Fisheries Ireland permission to process your personal information through the National Vetting Bureau and if any disclosure of information which comes to light is deemed to put children and vulnerable adults at risk, you may not be able to take up the role.
REMUNERATION
The salary scale for the position is at the level of Fisheries Officer as applies in Inland Fisheries Ireland. New entrants to the public sector are required to commence employment on Point 1 (€32,299.08). Fisheries Officers can also earn up to €3,910.76 during their six‑month contract by way of an unsocial hours allowance. More information on pay and allowances will be provided at interview.
Candidates should note that salary will not be subject to negotiation and the rate of remuneration may be adjusted from time to time in line with Government pay policy. New entrants to the public sector will start on Point 1 subject to Haddington Road Agreement and subsequent Government Agreements.
TENURE
This role is being offered on a seasonal six‑month contract basis.
APPLICATIONS
A cover letter and up to date Curriculum Vitae should be submitted by 5.00 pm Friday 20th of February 2026.
Late applications will not be processed.
Failure to provide a sufficient cover letter will result in your application being disqualified.
Failure to fully complete the application form will result in your application being disqualified.
Short listing will be based on information provided in the Cover Letter and CV.
Canvassing will disqualify.
Inland Fisheries Ireland is an equal opportunities employer.
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