Senior Inshore Fisheries and Conservation Officer (Skipper)

Salary: £36,363 - £39,862 per annum (pay award pending) plus 10% uplift (excluding allowances) Location: Shoreham-by-Sea, West Sussex Contract: Full-Time, Permanent Closing Date: Monday 31 August 2026Sussex IFCA is seeking an experienced maritime professional to join the Authority 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. Working both at sea and ashore, you will support the management of inshore fisheries and Marine Protected Areas, undertake enforcement activities and assist with the operation of Sussex IFCA's patrol and survey vessels.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 offshore. The RoleAs a Senior IFCO (Skipper), you will:Assist with the operation, maintenance and deployment 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.Enforce fisheries and marine conservation legislation.Collect evidence, intelligence and fisheries data.Contribute to monitoring, survey and conservation projects.Work closely with the fishing industry, partner organisations and local communities.About YouYou will have:Experience operating vessels professionally, including RIB handling.Strong seamanship, navigation and vessel safety knowledge.Experience leading staff or small teams.Good communication and interpersonal skills.The ability to work confidently in challenging situations.Knowledge of, or interest in, fisheries management and marine conservation.A full UK driving licence.Applicants should hold an RYA Yachtmaster Offshore Certificate (or equivalent). Applications will also be considered from candidates who hold an RYA Advanced Powerboat Certificate (or equivalent) and are willing to work towards the Yachtmaster Offshore qualification within two years of appointment. Why Join Sussex IFCA?A varied role combining vessel operations, enforcement, monitoring and survey work.Opportunities for training and professional development.Work as part of a small team with significant operational responsibility.Contribute directly to the management of Sussex's inshore fisheries and Marine Protected Areas.Regular vessel operations throughout the Sussex IFCA district. Additional InformationThe role involves regular work at sea and on land.Weekend working is required as part of operational duties.The post attracts a 10% uplift on basic salary to reflect operational and unsocial hours requirements.Appointment is subject to a Seafarer's Medical (ENG1) and BPSS clearance.The successful candidate must be able to attend Shoreham Harbour within one hour for urgent operational deployments. Further Information and ApplicationsFor an informal discussion regarding the role, please contact Rob Pearson on 01273 454407 or r.pearson@sussex-ifca.gov.uk. Completed application forms should be returned to: a.purcell@sussex-ifca.gov.uk Interviews: Week commencing 14 September 2026, Shoreham-by-Sea, West Sussex.