The UK government and Cefas (Centre for Environment, Fisheries and Aquaculture Science) are committed to securing a sustainable future for rivers, seas and oceans. Many of the objectives of the Fisheries Act 2020 are dependent on collection of data during fishing activities.
To meet increasing demand for fisheries data to underpin management, new technologies are being employed alongside existing programs. This role will employ two data collection methods to contribute to these objectives.
This fisheries observer role will combine the skills and knowledge of an onshore observer, with those required to undertake data collection using Remote Electronic Monitoring (REM) technologies. You will be part of a highly skilled team, who specialize in collecting high quality fisheries data. Onshore data collection will involve travel to fishing ports and merchants around the UK, to collect biological samples from fish and shellfish. Generation of catch data from REM will require review of video using specialist software. Both elements of the role will be subject to a comprehensive training program. The skills gained through this role will provide opportunities to contribute to R&D projects within a similar work area.
Job description
The main duties and responsibilities will include, but are not limited to:
- Carrying out detailed biological sampling of fish landings in port.
- Autonomously conducting detailed analysis of REM data acquired from UK fishing vessels.
- Generating high quality fisheries data, both from landed samples and from REM information (e.g., catch estimates from video footage).
- Establishing and maintaining good relations and communication with fishing industry.
- Adhering to and promoting safety measures in the field and office.
- Recording and storing data appropriately, according to protocols.
- Managing timely delivery of data, to data managers.
- Assisting in the delivery of fieldwork, including to the other program as required.
Person specification
The following are essential criteria required for this role and you must be able to demonstrate your skills and experience in the following areas:
- Self-motivated, reliable and autonomous, with a keenness to meet delivery goals
- Good interpersonal communication skills both verbal and written
- Ability to conduct physical and precise scientific fieldwork with good attention to detail
- Willingness to work unsociable hours, sometimes in difficult environmental conditions
- Ability to systematically and accurately collect, process and record data
- Excellent IT skills, including but not limited to, all Microsoft Office programs
- Ability to follow protocols to consistently record and generate accurate data
- Full Driving License valid for driving in the UK (you will need to drive the equipment needed for this position to various locations on the coast to complete the work required, these can be remote locations and at unsociable hours)
Licenses
Full Driving License valid for driving in the UK (you will need to drive the equipment needed for this position to various locations on the coast to complete the work required, these can be remote locations and at unsociable hours).
Behaviors
We'll assess you against these behaviors during the selection process:
- Delivering at Pace
- Making Effective Decisions
- Managing a Quality Service
We only ask for evidence of these behaviors on your application form:
- Delivering at Pace
Benefits
- Alongside your salary of £25,915, Centre for Environment, Fisheries and Aquaculture Science contributes £6,997 towards you being a member of the Civil Service Defined Benefit Pension scheme. Find out what benefits a Civil Service Pension provides.
- Generous annual leave entitlement—Cefas offers 25 days' annual leave on entry (rising to 30 days over first 5yrs) for full-time new entrants to the Civil Service. Employees receive 8 public holidays a year, plus an additional day to mark the late Queen's birthday
- Access to learning and development tailored to your role
- A working environment that supports a range of flexible working options
- A working culture which encourages inclusion and diversity
- Eligible to join the Civil Service Pension scheme—more information can be found on the CSP website http://www.civilservicepensionscheme.org.uk/
- Staff recognition vouchers
- In-year award scheme
Closing date: January 4, 2024
