Senior Inshore Fisheries and Conservation Officer (Skipper) - Sussex IFCA

Job Title: Senior Inshore Fisheries and Conservation Officer (Skipper)

Organisation: Sussex Inshore Fisheries and Conservation Authority

Location: Shoreham-by-Sea, West Sussex

Contract Type: Full-Time, Permanent

Hours of Work: 37 hours per week (minimum)

Grade: Grade 5 (SCP 25-29)

Salary: £36,363 – £39,862 per annum (pay award pending) + 10% uplift (excl. allowances)

Closing Date: Monday 31 August 2026

Application Form & Further Information: https://www.sussex-ifca.gov.uk/jobs

Application Forms are to be returned to: Ms. Angharad Purcell at [email protected]

Senior IFCO (Skipper) Opportunity

We are seeking an experienced and motivated professional to join Sussex IFCA as a Senior Inshore Fisheries and Conservation Officer (Skipper). Based in Shoreham Harbour, this role combines vessel operations, fisheries enforcement and marine conservation work across the Sussex coast. As part of a small team, you will work both at sea and ashore, supporting the management of inshore fisheries and Marine Protected Areas through patrols, inspections and engagement with stakeholders.

If you have experience operating vessels professionally, strong seamanship skills and experience working in an enforcement, compliance or operational role, we’d like to hear from you. As a senior member of the team, you’ll play a key role in vessel operations and fisheries enforcement, protecting Sussex’s marine environment and supporting compliance with fisheries and environmental legislation.

About Sussex IFCA

Sussex IFCA is one of ten Inshore Fisheries and Conservation Authorities in England. We are responsible for the sustainable management of inshore fisheries and the protection of the marine environment along the Sussex coast, from Chichester Harbour through to Rye Harbour and out to six nautical miles.

About the role

As a Senior IFCO (Skipper), you will:

• Support the Vessel Operations Manager in the safe and effective operation and maintenance of Sussex IFCA’s patrol and survey vessels

• Lead crew members during patrol, enforcement and survey activities

• Undertake inspections of fishing vessels and fishing activities, gathering evidence where required

• Enforce fisheries and marine conservation legislation

• Assist with vessel maintenance and ensure high operational standards

• Collect evidence, intelligence and fisheries data to support enforcement and management activities

• Contribute to marine conservation, monitoring and survey projects

• Work closely with the fishing industry, partner organisations and local communities

The full job description can be downloaded Sussex IFCA Advert