Fisheries Technical Officer

Job Description

This is an exciting opportunity to work as a Technical Fisheries Officer within the Fisheries team based in the West Midlands. This is part of the area Fisheries Biodiversity and Geomorphology department.

Successful candidates will be expected to provide high‑quality fisheries advice to a variety of internal and external customers, taking a risk‑based approach to help protect and improve the water environment and water‑dependent wildlife. The position focusses on significant water catchments within the central area of the West Midlands (including Blythe, Tame and Mease).

• Have a strong foundation in fisheries knowledge and practical fisheries management.
• Excellent communication skills with experience working with a wide range of people.
• Deliver environmental outcomes and build strong relationships, both within the team and with internal and external stakeholders.
• Work independently and on one’s own initiative in a well‑organised manner.
• Travel within the allocated catchment and the wider West Midlands area.
• Work flexibly, including participation in a 24‑hour out‑of‑hours roster.

• A degree in a relevant subject or equivalent professional experience.
• A good understanding of practical fisheries management techniques and excellent fish identification skills.
• Understanding of the diverse interests of angling stakeholders and the range of angling opportunities available in the area.
• A full UK driving licence.

• A good general understanding of fisheries regulation and permitting.
• Self‑motivated, independent and proactive.
• Strong influencing skills, ideally with experience engaging key stakeholders.
• A confident communicator.
• Excellent time‑management skills.

The successful candidate must feel comfortable working in and around water. Travel across the area and work in the field will be required. Regular travel to the Lea Marston depot and sites in Shrewsbury and Tewkesbury is expected.

This role can be based at either the Fradley (Lea Marston) or Kidderminster offices and is offered with flexible, hybrid working arrangements. You will typically spend 2–3 days per week in the office or on site.

Full driving licence is essential.

You’ll have a range of development opportunities and appropriate training will be provided.

The Environment Agency is fully committed to having an inclusive workforce that reflects the communities we serve. We embrace diversity and live it, for the benefit of our staff, communities and the environment.

You will manage and prioritise your workload, delivering work in a timely manner while mindful of team and personal resources.

More information on how to answer competency questions can be found in the candidate pack.

Can you describe a significant piece of work you have delivered, outlining your approach, the deadlines involved and the outcome?

As a Fisheries Officer you will often act as the public face of the Environment Agency, engaging with a wide range of stakeholders, including anglers, landowners, partner organisations and internal teams.

More information on how to answer competency questions can be found in the candidate pack.

Can you give an example of how you have dealt with an individual or group who had a differing viewpoint, and how you managed this interaction?

As an Environmental Regulator, you will determine applications for work impacting upon the environment.

More information on how to answer competency questions can be found in the candidate pack.

Can you provide an example when you have been involved in making key decisions or solving problems?

More information on how to answer competency questions can be found in the candidate pack.

Describe the key ecological factors that influence fish populations in freshwater systems. How would you assess the health of a river or still water fishery and what methods would you use to monitor and manage fish stocks effectively?

Full UK…