Overview
Inland Fisheries Ireland (IFI) has an exciting opportunity available for a Fisheries Officer to join our team in Dundalk, which would be well suited to those who have an interest in protecting, managing and conserving Ireland's inland fisheries and sea angling resources.
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.
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 Fisheries Officers work a 39-hour week and this will include 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
The following outlines, in broad terms, 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.
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 and develop good relationships with relevant stakeholders, such as An Garda Síochána, Angling Clubs, Fishermen, Community Development Groups, and other statutory agencies
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, Knowledge & Qualifications
The ideal candidate will have the following:
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 Skills & Attributes
The ideal candidate will have the following:
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 demonstrable 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.
It is a 14-point Scale Including 2 Long Service Increments (LSIs).
Point 1 €32,299.08; Point 2 €33,901.38; Point 3 €34,826.61; Point 4 €36,084.89; Point 5 €37,076.48; Point 6 €38,109.19; Point 7 €38,865.10; Point 8 €39,927.13; Point 9 €40,812.20; Point 10 €41,519.36; Point 11 €42,574.81; Point 12 €43,642.87; LSI 1 €44,45,188.81; LSI 2 €47,159.90
(IFI FO Grade Payscale as of 01.08.2025)
An unsocial hour's allowance (UHA) of up to €7,821 per annum (pro-rata), will be payable at either 50% or 100% relative to the number of unsocial hours worked.
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
These posts are offered on a permanent contract basis.
Application
A cover letter and up to date Curriculum Vitae should be submitted by 5.00 pm Thursday 19th of February 2026.
Late applications will not be processed.
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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