Overview
Inland Fisheries Ireland are excited to launch our 2026 Seasonal Recruitment campaign. We have various opportunities available nationwide for Seasonal Fisheries Officers which would be well suited to those who have an interest in protecting, managing and conserving Ireland's inland fisheries and sea angling resources. Fisheries Officers are responsible for front line implementation and enforcement of the provisions of the Fisheries Acts, Water Pollution Acts, Water Framework Directive & other relevant statutory provisions. The role includes the provision of comprehensive conservation, protection, improvement & development services, inland and at sea.
About Us
Inland Fisheries Ireland is the environmental agency responsible for protecting, managing and conserving Ireland's inland fisheries and sea angling resources. More information can be found by visiting our website.
Vision, Mission & Values
Vision: To place the inland fisheries resource in the best sustainable position possible for the benefit of future generations.
Mission: To protect, manage and conserve Ireland's inland fisheries and sea angling resources and to maximise their sustainability and natural biodiversity.
* We work collaboratively with professionalism
* We are open, transparent and accountable
* We act with respect and integrity
* We are committed to stewardship and sustainability
The Job
The role of a Seasonal Fisheries Officer has two main areas of responsibility: Fisheries Protection and Fisheries Conservation and Development. Other responsibilities may arise as required by environment and stakeholder needs. A Seasonal Fisheries Officer with a focus on Fisheries Protection can expect to work collaboratively with an experienced team on the following:
* Foot, vehicle and boat patrols on/along lakes, rivers, sea, coast and estuaries to check for illegal fishing
* Covert and overt surveillance activities to check for illegal fishing
* Enforcement of the applicable bye-laws and regulations as required
* Prosecution of offenders, including giving evidence and testifying in court
This is predominantly an outdoors role and candidates should be comfortable working outside in all weather conditions and on/near bodies of water. Seasonal Fisheries Officers work a 39-hour week including weekends, evenings, early morning and late nights. Interviews are expected to be held in March 2026 and successful candidates will start work in mid to late April 2026. Successful candidates will take part in a training programme at the commencement of their contracts, providing accredited training to build the skills needed for the role.
Key Responsibilities
Fisheries Protection
* Patrol lakes, rivers, sea, coast and estuaries to check for illegal fishing
* Detect and report pollution, take samples and gather information
* Inspect commercial Salmon & Sea Trout licence holders
* Inspect recreational anglers for licence and/or permit, checking compliance with regulations and bye-laws
* Issue Fixed Penalty Notices if appropriate
* Apprehend offenders, gather evidence, attend proceedings, give evidence and provide reports for legal advisers, in line with the prescribed IFI prosecution procedure
* Assist with general enquiries from the public
* Operate and maintain boats
* Provide shore cover and/or act as a crew member for local IFI protection staff on RIB patrols in the area
* Maintain and upkeep vehicles, RIBs, and surveillance equipment
* Support team members in stake-outs at night/early morning
* Fisheries Conservation & Development
* Contribute to habitat improvement schemes (including improving fisheries access and infrastructure)
* Conduct research survey work
* Monitor scientific data
* Conduct electro-fishing and netting
* Catch, measure, examine and release fish (assessing their health)
* Communicate with and develop good relationships with relevant stakeholders
* Provide assistance for angling festivals and competitions
* Write reports and keep records updated as required
* Keep up to date with legislation and relevant scientific and technical developments
* Undertake all other duties as assigned by the Inspector or nominee
Key Experience & Qualifications
Essential
* Leaving Certificate (Level 5 NFQ) or recognised equivalent
* A full Category B driving licence valid in Ireland
* No convictions under Irish Fisheries Legislation
* Eligible to work in the State
* Fluent English – both spoken and written
* Good knowledge of computer skills including MS Office
* Reside close to base (within at least 60 minutes drive of assigned base)
* Competent in and on the water (sea and freshwater)
* Demonstrates a passion/strong interest in promoting, protecting and conserving natural resources
* Desirable
* Experience in a similar environment
* Full Category BE driving licence valid in Ireland with ability to tow trailers
* Powerboat Level 2
* Kayaking Level 3
* Knowledge of fisheries legislation
Key Personal Attributes
* Ability to form effective working relationships with team members, the public and IFI external stakeholders
* Excellent communication skills
* Flexible approach to work and hours
* Can meet travel requirements of the post; prepared to work outside normal hours as necessary
* Commitment to the job and self-motivation
Garda Vetting
Please note that the successful candidate will need to go through Garda Vetting and safeguarding training before taking up the role. By applying you give Inland Fisheries Ireland permission to process your personal information through the National Vetting Bureau. If any disclosure of information comes to light that puts children and vulnerable adults at risk, you may not be able to take up the role.
Remuneration
The salary scale is at the level of Fisheries Officer for Inland Fisheries Ireland. New entrants start on Point 1 (€32,299.08). A possible unsocial hours allowance of up to €3,910.76 may be earned during the six-month contract. Details will be provided at interview. Salary is subject to Government pay policy and may be adjusted.
Tenure
This role is offered on a seasonal six-month contract basis.
Applications
A cover letter and up-to-date CV should be submitted by 5.00 pm Friday 20 February 2026. Late applications will not be processed. Failure to provide a sufficient cover letter or to fully complete the application form may disqualify your application. Shortlisting will be based on information provided in the Cover Letter and CV. Canvassing will disqualify. Inland Fisheries Ireland is an equal opportunities employer.
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