Marine Conservation Officer – Offshore Wind & Emerging Technologies

Location: Clare House, Belfast / Hybrid working possible
Pay: Approx. £19.59 per hour
Hours: 37 hours | Monday-Friday | Flexi
Contract: Temporary assignment – 10 November 2026 to 30 October 2027

JDR Recruitment is recruiting a Marine Conservation Officer for a Northern Ireland Civil Service assignment with DAERA’s Marine Conservation Branch.

The role will support the assessment of offshore wind and emerging marine technologies, helping ensure potential impacts on Marine Protected Areas, habitats and species are properly considered.

The Role

You will:

• Assess offshore wind applications for potential impacts on protected marine sites, habitats and species.
• Provide environmental and conservation advice.
• Build and maintain information on offshore technology types, from pilot schemes to full windfarm proposals.
• Identify potential interactions between offshore renewable developments and marine habitats/species.
• Examine interactions between the fishing and offshore renewables industries.
• Consider the environmental impacts of fisheries displacement or closures.
• Support development of conservation advice and strategic compensatory measures.
• Develop guidance relating to marine conservation and offshore development.
• Work with colleagues and stakeholders across relevant technical and policy areas.

Essential Criteria

Applicants must have:

• A degree or higher/equivalent qualification in Zoology, Biology, Ecology or another relevant Marine or Environmental Science discipline.
• A valid driving licence and access to suitable transport.
• At least 2 years’ relevant experience gained within the last 8 years, in a paid, voluntary or academic capacity, associated with the conservation or assessment of marine ecosystems.

Relevant experience must include one or more of:

• Producing or reviewing ecological assessments/reports.
• Conducting ecological surveys of marine habitats and wildlife, particularly those found in UK waters.
• Conservation management.

Desirable

An MSc in a relevant scientific discipline, environmental impact assessment experience, technical report writing and experience engaging with a wide range of stakeholders would be advantageous.

Security Clearance

The successful candidate will be required to complete the relevant pre-employment checks and obtain Basic security clearance.

JDRBelfast