Overview
Inland Fisheries Ireland has an exciting opportunity available for a Fisheries Officer to join our team. The role is well suited to those with an interest in protecting, managing and conserving Ireland's inland fisheries and sea angling resources.
The Fisheries Officer is 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, including the provision of comprehensive conservation, protection, improvement and development services, inland and at sea.
Responsibilities
The role has two main areas of responsibility:
* Fisheries Protection
* Fisheries Conservation and Development
You will work collaboratively with an experienced team of Fisheries Officers, Assistant Fisheries Inspectors and Fisheries Inspectors on activities such as:
* Patrolling and surveillance to check for illegal fishing
* Enforcing applicable bye-laws and regulations
* 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 community initiatives designed to educate and promote
This is predominantly an outdoors role. Candidates should be comfortable working outside in all weather conditions and near bodies of water. Fisheries Officers work a 39-hour week including weekends, evenings, early mornings and late nights.
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
Key Responsibilities
Fisheries Protection
* This post is based at the Limerick
* Patrol lakes, rivers, sea, coast and estuaries to check for illegal fishing
* Undertake investigative surveys of water quality and the health, spawning and movement of fish
* Detect and report pollution, take samples and gather information
* Inspect commercial Salmon & Sea Trout licence holders
* Inspect recreational anglers for licence and/or permit, check compliance with regulations and bye-laws
* Issue Fixed Penalty Notices where appropriate
* Apprehend offenders, gather evidence, attend proceedings, give evidence and provide reports for legal advisers, in line with IFI procedures
* Make improvements to habitats through work on streams and river banks
* Assist with general enquiries from the public
* Communicate with external bodies (clubs, councils, fishery owners)
* Operate and maintain boats
* Provide shore cover or act as crew for local IFI protection staff on RIB patrols
* 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
* Communicate with and develop good relationships with stakeholders (e.g. An Garda Síochána, Angling Clubs, Fishermen, Community Groups, statutory agencies)
* Provide assistance for angling festivals and competitions
* Write reports and keep records updated
* Keep up to date with legislation and relevant scientific and technical developments
* Undertake other duties as assigned by the Inspector or nominee
Experience & Qualifications
Essential
* Leaving Certificate (Level 5 NFQ) or recognised equivalent
* A full Category B driving licence valid in Ireland
* No convictions under Irish Fisheries Legislation
* Eligible to work in the State
* Fluent English (spoken and written)
* Good computer skills including MS Office
* Reside close to base (within 60 minutes’ drive of base location)
* Competent in and on the water (sea, lakes and rivers)
* Demonstrates a passion for promoting, protecting and conserving natural resources
Desirable
* Experience in a similar environment
* Full Category BE driving licence (Ireland) and ability to tow trailers
* Powerboat Level 2
* Kayaking Level 3
* Knowledge of fisheries legislation
Personal Attributes
The ideal candidate will have:
* Ability to form effective working relationships with team members, public and external stakeholders
* Excellent communication skills
* Flexible approach to work and hours
* Ability to meet travel requirements and willingness to work outside normal hours
* Commitment and self-motivation
Garda Vetting
The successful candidate will need to undergo Garda Vetting and safeguarding training before taking up the role. By applying, you give Inland Fisheries Ireland permission to process your personal information through the National Vetting Bureau; disclosure of information may affect eligibility.
Remuneration
The salary scale for the position is the Fisheries Officer level at Inland Fisheries Ireland on a 14-point scale with 2 long service increments. Points range from Point 1 to Point 12, with LSIs.
Unsocial hour’s allowance (UHA) of up to €7,821 per annum (pro-rata) may be payable depending on hours worked.
Salary is not subject to negotiation and may be adjusted in line with Government pay policy. New entrants start on Point 1 subject to the Haddington Road Agreement and subsequent Government agreements.
Tenure
This role is offered on a specified purpose contract until the end of December 2027.
Applications
A cover letter and up-to-date CV should be submitted by 5.00 pm on Friday 31 October 2025. Late applications will not be processed. Failure to provide a sufficient cover letter or to fully complete the application form may result in disqualification. Shortlisting will be based on information in the cover letter and CV. Canvassing will disqualify. Inland Fisheries Ireland is an equal opportunities employer.
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