The Control & Enforcement Branch within the Welsh Government’s Fisheries Division is essential to the protection of Wales’s marine environment. Operating under the guidance of the Wales Fisheries Strategy, this team oversees all matters related to fish, fishing activities, and fisheries enforcement, with a particular emphasis on sea fishing policy, industry engagement, and cross-border collaboration across the UK and Europe.

About the Role

As a member of the Welsh Fisheries Monitoring Centre (WFMC), you will play an integral role in marine surveillance and regulatory compliance. Your responsibilities will ensure that fishing operations in Welsh waters—by both domestic and foreign vessels—are conducted legally, sustainably, and within the required regulatory framework.

Primary duties include:

• Monitoring vessel activity and statutory data across all sectors
• Supporting trade through catch certificate processing
• Preventing illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing
• Managing vessel licensing and contributing to UK-wide marine intelligence initiatives

Additionally, you will provide support to Fishery Patrol Vessels as needed, which may involve participating in weekend shifts as part of a rota system.

Wider Enforcement Duties

coastal enforcement operations

This position offers the opportunity to meaningfully contribute to the preservation of Wales’ marine ecosystems, collaborate closely with key industry and governmental stakeholders, and join a team committed to integrity, sustainability, and public service.