Fisheries Officer - Compliance (Ministry of Fisheries)

The position assists with the development of inshore fisheries compliance and monitoring strategies, the supervision, support, coordination and implementation of inshore fisheries compliance programs and activities by IFMD compliance officers, the geographic divisions and other agencies. The FO Compliance is responsible for overseeing the implementation of the Operational Compliance Strategy (OCS) including undertaking compliance and enforcement operational activities and supporting prosecutions, supporting the implementation of activities for regulatory awareness, developing and delivering training, and leading engagement agencies on fisheries compliance matters and establishing implementing arrangements and standard operating procedures.

Key Responsibilities

1. Support the development and implementation of the Operational Compliance Strategy and other compliance and monitoring policies in accordance with priorities and deadlines.

2. The provision of leadership to the IFMD compliance team and support to the whole Ministry inshore fisheries compliance program service delivery activities.

3. Lead engagement and maintain relationships with other Ministry of Fisheries Divisions and other compliance and enforcement agencies to support collaborative responses.

4. Support the development and delivery of capacity building and training programs and initiatives to support the inshore fisheries compliance capability.

5. Support the development of effective external communication and education strategies to encourage voluntary compliance.

6. Develop policies and procedures to support the consistent delivery of compliance services across all of Fiji inshore fisheries. Timely submission of activity reports, monthly progress and quarterly reports.

Knowledge & Experience

1. 1. At least 3 – 4 years of relevant work experience in a similar role.
2. 2. Demonstrates sound knowledge across key areas of fisheries management and compliance with sound understanding of fisheries management policies and principles, and relevant legislation
3. 3. Extensive experience in fisheries compliance, prosecution, investigation, Monitoring, Control, Surveillance and Enforcement
4. 4. Demonstrated knowledge of fisheries compliance and key compliance principles and approaches, including strategies for achieving voluntary compliance and enforcement
5. 5. Good knowledge of Fiji’s coastal fisheries management processes, challenges and structures.
6. 6. Understanding of Fijian customs, traditions and protocols; the Fijian Constitution (2013); and applicable laws of Fiji.

Skills & Abilities

1. 1. Able to meet deadlines and achieve results personally and through effective team leadership.
2. 2. Comprehensive skills in relevant fisheries operational planning, fisheries investigation, conduct training, enforcement and prosecution programs.
3. 3. Communicates effectively across a wide range of people and expresses ideas clearly and coherently both verbally and in writing
4. 4. Ability to develop and maintain productive working relationships with staff and stakeholders by building rapport, understanding needs and delivering expectations
5. 5. Able to logically evaluate information, identify key issues and draw sound conclusions
6. 6. High level of ethics and integrity and be able to maintain confidentiality and take responsibility for actions
7. 7. Able to meet deadlines and achieve results personally and through effective team leadership.
8. 8. Highly skilled in the operation of computers for standard office programs, and programs to support intelligence, operational activities and data analysis

Additional Information

Applicants for employment in the Ministry of Fisheries must be Fijian Citizens, under Age 60, in sound health, and have no criminal or police record. The successful applicant will be required to provide a medical certificate showing good health, and police clearance showing no criminal record as a condition of employment.

The Ministry is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer. Applications are encouraged by all eligible, qualified applicants. Only the specific knowledge, experience, skills and abilities required for the job will be considered in assessing the relative suitability of applicants.

Contact Information

For further information, contact Mr Jonacani Vatanitawake on telephone 3300-555 or on email jvatanitawake@mff.gov.fj