Science Officer (Maternity Cover)

Science Officer – 1 Year Fixed Term (Maternity Cover)

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.

Purpose

As part of the Authority’s Science Team, assisting the Senior Science Officer and Head of Science with priority work to meet the Authority’s core duties within the Annual Plan and Research Plan. Assessing the impact of fishing activities on stocks and marine protected areas (MPAs) by undertaking field surveys, stock assessments, data recording and associated analyses, GIS mapping and report writing. Contributing towards the development of fisheries management plans (FMPs) for the district, impact assessments, byelaws, administering scientific dispensations and responding to marine planning and licensing consultations.

Main Responsibilities

• Preparing and presenting reports to advise the Authority on appropriate fisheries and MPA management.
• Assisting the Head of Science and / or Senior Science Officer in intertidal and at sea surveys, data collection and analysis.
• Carrying out GIS software analyses.
• Providing advice on fisheries and marine conservation policies, byelaws and management.
• Assisting with development and implementation of MPA and fisheries management measures within the district.
• Acting as the Authority’s main point of contact for marine planning and licensing, responding to consultations in a timely manner.
• Contributing towards the authorship of HRAs and other impact assessments (e.g. fisheries, MPA, byelaw) under the direction of the Head of Science and / or Senior Science Officer.
• Maintaining a good knowledgebase of UK marine environmental and fisheries legislation and MPAs.
• Liaising and working with partner agencies such as Marine Management Organisation, Natural England, Environment Agency, Cefas, local councils and NGOs.
• Liaising with fisheries and conservation stakeholders.
• Assisting IFCOs with enforcement work as and when required.

The deadline for submission of applications is 30th September 2026.

For an informal discussion about the role, please contact Anna Plumeridge, NWIFCA Head of Science on 01524 727970 or at [email protected].

NWIFCA is committed to equality of opportunity and welcomes applications from all suitably qualified candidates.