Marine Enforcement Officer (MEO)

Welsh Government (Llywodraeth Cymru); England; On-site; GBP 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A government agency in the United Kingdom is seeking a Marine Enforcement Officer to join a dynamic team dedicated to protecting marine environments and supporting sustainable fisheries in Wales. This hands-on role involves enforcing fisheries legislation, conducting inspections at ports, and collaborating with the fishing industry and regulatory bodies. Ideal candidates will have a passion for marine conservation and the ability to engage with various stakeholders to ensure compliance and sustainability. Experience in enforcement or compliance is a plus.

Qualifications

• Hands-on experience in marine enforcement and compliance.
• Ability to work collaboratively with various partners and stakeholders.

Responsibilities

• Enforce fisheries legislation to protect marine resources.
• Monitor fish landings and verify compliance.
• Investigate potential violations and engage in court proceedings.
• Plan and conduct patrols at sea and coastal areas.

Job description

Marine Enforcement Officer (MEO)

Purpose of post: Join a dynamic national team working at the heart of Wales' marine environment. This role offers a unique opportunity to make a real impact by protecting our seas and supporting sustainable fisheries. You'll deliver statutory services on behalf of the Welsh Government, supporting the Welsh fishing community, carrying out inspection and, where necessary, enforcement activities across the fishing industry and marine construction within Wales.

What You'll Do

• Protect Wales' marine resources by enforcing fisheries legislation.
• Monitor fish landings at local ports for compliance and verify logbooks and landing declarations.
• Investigate and gather evidence for potential prosecutions, including preparing case files and, where required, giving evidence in court.
• Plan and enforce intertidal fisheries (e.g., hand gathering of cockles, shore netting).
• Spend time at sea on one of the Welsh Government's Fisheries Patrol Vessels, conducting enforcement activities and safeguarding marine habitats.

Why This Role is Exciting

• Variety and challenge - no two days are the same, from port inspections to patrols at sea.
• Impactful work - play a key role in protecting Wales' marine environment and supporting sustainable fishing practices.
• Professional development - gain specialist enforcement experience and work alongside experts in marine and fisheries management.
• Team culture - be part of a supportive, national team committed to high standards and collaboration.

What You'll Be Doing

This is a hands‑on, varied role where you'll play a key part in protecting Wales' marine environment and supporting sustainable fisheries. Your work will combine technical expertise, enforcement duties, and collaboration with a wide range of partners.

Key Responsibilities

• Shape and enforce fisheries plans - Implement strategies for commercial fisheries and ensure compliance both at sea and ashore.
• Protect marine environments - Enforce regulations to safeguard habitats and biodiversity.
• Gather intelligence and evidence - Monitor fishing activities, collect data, and, where required, conduct investigations under the Police and Criminal Evidence Act. Prepare case files and, when required, give evidence in court.
• Provide expert advice - Offer technical guidance to policy teams on fishing operations, fish distribution, processing, and marine issues.
• Engage and collaborate - Work closely with the fishing industry, Welsh Government teams, Law Enforcement, Natural Resources Wales, and other statutory bodies.
• Patrol and enforce at sea - Undertake seagoing patrols on Welsh Government Fisheries Patrol Vessels and operate shore-launched craft for coastal enforcement.