Fish and Wildlife Officer

About the Company

The Environment Agency is an executive non-departmental public body, sponsored by the Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs. We work to protect and improve the environment, and to promote sustainable development. We play a vital role in preventing and managing pollution, mitigating climate change impacts, and ensuring the health of water, land, and wildlife for everyone. Join our dedicated teams who are committed to making a tangible difference to the natural world and the communities we serve.

Job Description

Are you passionate about protecting our natural environment and ensuring the responsible management of wildlife and natural resources? The Environment Agency is seeking a dedicated and proactive Fish and Wildlife Officer to join our team in Leeds. In this crucial role, you will be on the front lines, enforcing environmental legislation, investigating incidents, and educating the public to safeguard England’s precious ecosystems. You will contribute to maintaining biodiversity, preventing illegal activities, and responding to environmental emergencies, working collaboratively with various stakeholders to achieve our environmental goals.

Key Responsibilities

• Patrol designated areas to monitor and protect fish, wildlife, and their habitats.
• Investigate environmental offences, including illegal fishing, poaching, pollution incidents, and habitat destruction.
• Enforce environmental legislation and regulations, issuing warnings, fixed penalty notices, and preparing cases for prosecution where necessary.
• Collect evidence, prepare detailed reports, and maintain accurate records of all incidents and enforcement actions.
• Respond to environmental incidents such as fish kills, pollution spills, and wildlife emergencies.
• Engage with the public, offering advice, promoting responsible practices, and fostering positive relationships within local communities.
• Collaborate with local police, other government agencies, and conservation organisations.
• Participate in community outreach and educational programs to raise awareness about environmental protection.
• Conduct surveys and monitoring activities to assess fish and wildlife populations and habitat health.

Required Skills

• Strong understanding of environmental legislation and enforcement principles.
• Excellent observational and investigative skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team in challenging outdoor environments.
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills for public engagement and report writing.
• Proficiency in collecting and accurately recording data and evidence.
• Full UK driving licence and willingness to travel within the region.
• Physical fitness required for patrolling and fieldwork, often in varied weather conditions.
• Problem-solving ability and sound judgement under pressure.

Preferred Qualifications

• A degree or equivalent qualification in environmental science, conservation, ecology, or a related field.
• Previous experience in environmental enforcement, law enforcement, or a similar field.
• Knowledge of local fish species, wildlife, and their habitats in the Yorkshire region.
• Experience with GIS and data analysis tools.
• First Aid certification.
• Experience with interviewing techniques and court procedures.

Perks & Benefits

• Generous annual leave allowance.
• Access to the highly respected Civil Service Pension Scheme.
• Flexible working options to support work-life balance.
• Professional development and training opportunities.
• Employee assistance program for health and wellbeing.
• Contribution to a meaningful cause: protecting and improving the environment.
• Cycle to Work scheme.
• Season ticket loan.

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