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Job description

The current vacancies are in the Marine and Fisheries Division (MFD) of DAERA. MFD is part of DAERA’s Environment, Marine and Fisheries Group (EMFG). The Division is responsible for managing the sustainable use of the marine environment and the promotion, protection, enhancement and sustainable use of all fish stocks, inland and at sea (including aquaculture and fish health). The EMFG has a wide range of policy, scientific, professional and technical skills and expertise among its staff. This skills and experience base allows us to manage and protect human health, as well as our landscapes, waters and their wildlife, and to maintain a healthier environment benefiting people, nature and the economy. Success for Marine and Fisheries Division will see us deliver on the Department’s purpose of ‘delivering a net zero nature positive future, supporting sustainable agriculture and thriving rural communities’ and, thereby, improving the lives of the people living in Northern Ireland. Please see employer website for full job details & person specification.

Responsibilities

• Liaison with and regulation of aquaculture operators to ensure compliance with the relevant provisions of the AHL when listed species or their germplasm are moved into and out of Northern Ireland.
• Inspection of movement records required to be held by operators.
• Aquatic animal surveillance; inspections of biosecurity plans and operational arrangements and provision of biosecurity advice to ensure compliance with the AHL.

Skills and Qualifications

Essential Skills

• Applicants must, by the closing date for applications: 1. A degree in Fisheries Management, Aquaculture or a relevant Scientific discipline.
• AND 2. At least 2 years’ relevant experience working in an Aquatic Animal Health, Aquaculture, Fisheries Management or relevant Scientific discipline.
• AND 3. Be committed to undertaking a certified course in Aquatic Animal Health as part of a package of professional training to be commenced within 1 year of appointment. Candidates must gain the qualification within 2 years of undertaking training.
• AND 4. Have a full driving licence which permits the licence holder to drive in Northern Ireland and access to a form of transport to enable the postholder to fulfil the duties of the role.

Desirable Skills

• Should it be necessary to shortlist candidates to go forward to interview, the Panel will carry out an objective evaluation of the depth and breadth of information provided by candidates in response to eligibility criterion 2.

Further Information

Location: Rathkeltair House. NICS Application form only. Vacancy closing date Friday 31st July 2026 at 12 noon. Applications from females, young people (people under the age of 35), people with a disability and people from minority ethnic communities are particularly welcomed for this post. The Northern Ireland Civil Service is an Equal Opportunities Employer. All applications for employment are considered strictly on the basis of merit.