37 hours per week (Flexi-time system in operation). The posts involves working unsocial hours, including early mornings, late evenings and weekends as required by tides and enforcement/communications duties.
Contract
Permanent
Salary
SCP 12-20 £24,496 – £28,371 per annum depending on experience
Pension Scheme
Local Government Pension scheme in operation
Closing Date
16th December 2022
Canvassing of members of the Authority for any appointment under the Authority shall disqualify the candidate concerned for that appointment – Standing Orders 11.2(a)
JOB TITLE:
INSHORE FISHERIES CONSERVATION AND COMMUNICATIONS OFFICER
Job Purpose
Maintain and enhance the sustainability of inshore fisheries and implement NWIFCA conservation duties throughout the NWIFCA District as required
Increase compliance with fisheries regulations by planning and executing regular patrols and undertaking enforcement operations
Enforce the IFCA byelaws, EC and National fisheries legislation through the inspection of landings and vessels in harbours and ports and inter tidal areas
Protect the marine environment from harm or damage and report relevant incidents
Undertake surveys of the inshore and offshore marine environment
Assist with a variety of fisheries and marine environmental projects
Carry out other duties as required by the NWIFCA to deliver its statutory duties
Undertake training as required for the post
Develop and implement the Authority’s communications and PR strategy
The post holder will develop communications with the Authority, the media and Stakeholders through creative use and management of various resources
Main Tasks
Record fishing activity by location, numbers of fishers, vessels and types of fishing activity and collect fisheries intelligence
Inspect and record fishing catches and gear
Take consistent risk-based enforcement action to prevent illegal fishing activity
Collect evidence when offences are detected and submit to the Head of Enforcement
Prepare written witness statements, and appear in court as a witness when required
Prepare quarterly reports for the NWIFCA and other reports as required
Protect the marine environment, collect data and report relevant incidents
Assist with environmental survey and monitoring
Build good relationships with NWIFCA coastal community
Engage with stakeholders including fishers and anyone interested in the marine environment
Provide advice on proposed changes to byelaws, fisheries and conservation objectives
Supply information to ensure fishers and the public are aware of the regulations
Develop and maintain contacts other agencies and groups on NWIFCA policies
Represent NWIFCA at meetings and giving presentations when required
Assist with fisheries and conservation policy formulation.
Ensure that any vehicles, vessels, equipment are correctly maintained
Work with the Authority’s stakeholders to deliver the IFCA objectives
Communications
Manage external communications: consultation meetings with stakeholders, update the website, social media, press releases, presentations, education
Prepare and circulate press releases
Plan and arrange public meetings, members training events and stakeholder meetings throughout the district
Respond to general phone and email enquiries to NWIFCA
Handle FOI and EIR requests
Develop a feedback system to monitor external and Member views of the Authority
Develop NWIFCA education and public relations policy/ strategy
Daily management and updating of website in collaboration with material for website from other officers
Develop use of social media where appropriate
Develop and promote use of electronic communications for NWIFCA
Conduct electronic surveys for NWIFCA with Authority and external stakeholders
Provide administrative support and deputise for the clerk at meetings where necessary.
Training
Essential training will be provided in post where necessary including:
IFCA Competent Officers Training Course – Torquay
Sea Survival (PST), First Aid, Safety Awareness, Fire Fighting, ATV courses
RYA SRC (VHF) Certification
ML5 Certificate
REQUIREMENTS
ESSENTIAL
DESIRABLE
Education/
Qualifications
Good general education (supply details)
A minimum of 5 GCSEs or equivalent, including English and Mathematics
Seamanship qualifications
RYA Powerboat certificate level 2
Higher Education in a Marine Subject
Experience
Experience of outdoor work e.g. boat handling, fisheries, environmental survey work or other marine field work
Dealing with members of the public
Fluency in English and ability to write and deliver effective communications
Experience of using and developing social media to share information
Creativity to present information to different groups in a relevant and interesting way
Good interpersonal skills to work with colleagues, Authority members and stakeholders
Enforcement experience
Experience of fisheries
Ability to handle boats
Knowledge of fisheries legislation
Forward thinking to propose and integrate new developments and approaches
Knowledge
Knowledge of the fishing industry and marine conservation issues
Knowledge of fisheries legislation and NWIFCA byelaws
Technical Skills
Good general IT skills
Good communication skills
Able to keep accurate written records
Full current UK driving licence
Able to handle ATVs and tow trailers
Small boat experience/qualifications
Short report writing
Basic ability with GIS packages
Personal Attributes
Enthusiasm for marine environment
Self-motivated and good team worker
Willing to work outdoors in all weathers
Physical fitness – the appointee will be required to pass an MCA medical (ML5)
Experience of dealing with a wide variety of people
Experience of handling members of the public in difficult situations
Applicants should complete the application form available below and attach any supporting documents.
Applications should be sent by the closing date to:
Post: NWIFCA, 1 Preston Street, Carnforth LA5 9BY OR
