Senior Capture Fisheries Extension Officer (Montego Bay Division)

Job Purpose

Under the supervision of the Senior Capture Fisheries Extension Officer, the Fisheries Extension Officer has responsibility for the implementation of extension service strategies and programmes at the parish level in order to ensure proper conservation, protection and management of the natural (marine and inland) fishable resources. 

The incumbent implements programmes to ensure technology transfer, training, capacity building and the facilitation of interventions to support the development and efficient operation of capture fisheries within the parish. He/she facilitates licensing of fishers and provides feedback on the impact of extension policies at the parish level, thereby creating linkages between the needs of the sector and research activities. 

Additionally, the incumbent provides ongoing support for the development and implementation of relevant programmes and projects of the National Fisheries Authority (NFA). 

Key Responsibilities

Technical/Professional 

• Provides input in the preparation of annual, quarterly and monthly reports;
• Assists in the implementation of an emergency management response plan for the Authority; 
• Liaises with government and non- governmental organisations concerned with the conservation and sustainable utilization of marine species; 
• Provides technical training to fishers; 
• Facilitates the licensing of fishers and collaborates with the Licensing and Registration Unit for issuance of licences, authorizations and permits; 
• Participates in the review of policies relating to the fisheries sector in light of globalization trends, as well as conservation and management measures; 
• Supports the implementation of capture fisheries extension activities; 
• Participates in the dissemination of information and the transfer of technology to fishers and other relevant stakeholders; 
• Supports the implementation of educational programmes relating to fisheries management, development and conservation. 
• Collaborates with the Compliance Branch on matters relating to enforcement of The Fisheries Act, 2018; 
• Prepares reports on the condition of fishing beaches;
• Investigates and reports on the loss of fishing equipment; 
• Supports the implementation of activities to ensure the adaptation of local and international seafood standards through the organization of workshops, seminars and training courses 
• Performs any other related duties which may be assigned by the Senior Fisheries Extension Officer. 

Required Knowledge, Skills and Competencies

Core 

• Oral Communication 
• Written Communication 
• Customer & Quality Focus 
• Problem Solving and Decision Making 
• Initiative 
• Integrity 
• Interpersonal Skills 
• Teamwork & Cooperation 
• Impact and Influence 
• Compliance 
• Managing External Relationships 

Technical 

• Knowledge of the operations of the Government, the NFA and its projects, programmes, organizational policies and procedures, (Fisheries Local and International Polices, Fisheries act, GOJ Staff Orders,) 
• Good programme development and project management skills 
• Sound knowledge of local and international capture fisheries production
• Sound knowledge of Fisheries Laws and Regulations, regional and international conventions and agreement, 
• Working knowledge of economics and business management principles and practices
• Use of Technology; Proficiency in relevant (Microsoft Office Suite) 

Minimum Required Qualification and Experience

• Bachelor’s Degree in Marine Biology or related discipline from a recognised institution
• Two (2) years work experience in a similar field 

Special Conditions Associated with the Job

• Exposure to challenges and crises which require response at very short notice
• Required to work in brackish, riverine, coastal and offshore marine environment
• Exposure to long hours in the sun, dust and water 
• May be necessary to wear protective clothing at times, e.g. rubber boots.
• Required to travel locally, including travelling to remote locations 
• Required to travel overseas 
• Exposure to working in volatile communities

Please note that only shortlisted applicants will be contacted.