Inshore Fisheries and Conservation Officer (Intelligence)
Location: Head Office (Carnforth)
Contract: Permanent; full-time (37 hours per week)
Starting Salary: £39,862-£46,142 (subject to future pay increments and pay awards); Local Government Pension Scheme
Closing Date: 16th August 2026
Interview Dates: Anticipated w/c 1st September 2026
About the role
NWIFCA is seeking to recruit an Inshore Fisheries and Conservation Officer (Intelligence).
This is a specialist dual role working in the Authority’s Enforcement Team, acting as a front-line fisheries enforcement officer, whilst also fulfilling the role of our Intelligence Officer.
About us
NWIFCA is one of ten Inshore Fisheries and Conservation Authorities in England. We are responsible for the sustainable management of sea fisheries resources within the inshore waters, and along the coast, of North West England. In managing these fisheries, we balance the needs of fishing communities, marine conservation and wider public interest.
What you will be doing
In your capacity as an IFCO, you will work with colleagues to carry out routine patrols, as and inspections of fishing activity, both from shore and at sea, as well as assisting with investigations when offences are found.
In your other capacity as the Authority’s Intel Officer, you will follow the UK’s National Intelligence Model, assisting our Head of Enforcement in determining priority areas for resource deployment, as well as liaising with partner agencies on intel sharing and tasking.
About you
We are looking for someone who is practical, professional and confident working in a regulatory environment. You will need to be able to work outdoors in challenging coastal and estuarine conditions, communicate effectively with fishers and other stakeholders, and apply rules fairly and consistently. To be successful in your intel capacity, you will need strong IT and analytical skills and be able to develop productive working relationships with external partners.
You should be able to demonstrate:
- an interest in fisheries, marine management, environmental regulation or enforcement;
- good communication and interpersonal skills;
- sound judgement and the ability to deal calmly with difficult situations;
- the ability to work independently and as part of a team;
- good written and analytical skills and attention to detail;
- confidence in keeping accurate records and preparing reports;
- willingness to work flexibly, including early mornings, evenings, and occasional weekends as operational needs require;
- a full UK driving licence, or the ability to meet the travel requirements of the role.
Previous experience in fisheries enforcement, marine regulation, environmental management, practical fisheries work, policing, military, regulatory compliance, intelligence, or a similar field would be an advantage. However, we are interested in candidates from any backgrounds with transferable skills and the right mindset.
How to apply
To apply, please send a completed application form (download below) to office@nw-ifca.gov.uk.
The deadline for submission of applications is Sunday 16th August 2026.
Application sifting will occur the following week, with interviews anticipated for the week commencing 1st September; these will be at our Head Office in Carnforth.
For an informal discussion about the role, please contact Mark Taylor, NWIFCA CEO, on 01524 727970 or at ceo@nw-ifca.gov.uk.
NWIFCA is committed to equality of opportunity and welcomes applications from all suitably qualified candidates.