ICES Secretariat, based in Copenhagen, Denmark, is seeking a Professional Officer to join our Advice Department. In this role, you will become part of a dynamic and collaborative international team dedicated to supporting ICES network, delivering impactful advice, and advancing the connection between science and policy.
About the Role
As a Professional Officer, you will play a critical role in coordinating and facilitating ICES integrated advisory work that bridges fisheries science with marine spatial management priorities. This includes coordinating stock assessment benchmarks, facilitating the development of spatial management advice (MPAs, VMEs, OECMs, etc.), supporting biodiversity impact assessments, and helping to deliver ecosystem-based advisory services. Strong technical skills as well as a solid understanding of fisheries data analysis and quantitative assessment methods are essential for effectively coordinating these processes.
To succeed in this role, you’ll need excellent interpersonal skills, scientific literacy and the ability to work effectively across disciplines and cultures. Success means delivering high-quality, timely advice that draws on the best available science, while also helping others grow and collaborate effectively. We’re looking for someone who thrives in international, interdisciplinary environments—curious, detail-oriented, and motivated by the opportunity to shape sustainable marine policy.
Main Responsibilities
Coordinate advisory processes: Manage advice requests from planning to completion, covering fisheries assessments (including benchmarks), spatial management interactions (MPAs, VMEs, seafloor habitats), and policy-related advisory work under EU directives, CFP, and RFMO frameworks.
Provide specialist support: Assist experts and colleagues in developing applied skills in assessment logic and code facilitating responses to advisory requests and foster capacity building.
Facilitate collaboration: Liaise with advisory leadership, working group chairs, Secretariat teams, and external requesters to ensure smooth and timely delivery.
Support network activities: Facilitate expert group meetings and peer review processes and collaborate with the Communications team to ensure coordinated external communications.
Maintain technical standards: Ensure transparent, reproducible workflows (R/Python + GitHub) that align with ICES' Transparent Assessment Framework (TAF).
Contribute to process improvement: Use feedback and lessons learned to improve workflows and develop improved advice products.
Qualifications and Experience
We seek a Professional Officer who is motivated, organized, collaborative, and adaptable. The following qualifications are expected:
A higher university degree (preferably a PhD) in marine science, mathematics, statistics, or a related field
At least five years of relevant professional experience in marine science or an international organisation
Evidence of experience with quantitative analysis of marine resources and an understanding of stock assessment methods and how scientific data flows through ICES assessment and advisory processes
Proficiency in R and GIS tools for handling spatial data analysis. Comfort working with R code is essential, while knowledge of ICES' Transparent Assessment Framework (TAF) would be advantageous
Proficiency with collaborative software including version control systems (e.g., GitHub), MS Office suite, and SharePoint for document management and coordination
Evidence of working with policy-relevant science, such as contributing to reports, assessments, or advice that inform international fisheries or marine management decisions
Experience in interdisciplinary science and working effectively with culturally and professionally diverse teams
What ICES Offers
You’ll join a diverse and collaborative team that values professionalism, integrity, and continuous learning. We offer a meaningful role in supporting evidence-based marine governance, along with a supportive and inclusive workplace culture that encourages innovation and teamwork.
We are committed to fostering a positive, family-friendly work environment through inclusive practices and clear standards of conduct. Staff benefit from flexible working hours, the option to work partially from home, and regular access to professional development opportunities.
Terms of Appointment
The appointment is full-time (38 hours per week, including lunch breaks), for a four-year term starting preferably in August 2025 or as soon as possible. The position is classified at the P2 grade level, based on the United Nations common salary system.
ICES Secretariat staff are entitled to privileges and immunities under the Host Agreement with the Government of Denmark. Salaries are exempt from Danish income tax and follow, though are not identical to, UN pay scales. Eligible staff may receive relocation/repatriation support, education grants for dependents, and home leave allowances. Furthermore, you will be enrolled in a tax-free pension scheme to which both you and ICES contribute. The ICES Staff Rules set out the conditions of employment for the Secretariat staff.
Applications
If you believe your personal and professional qualities align with this opportunity, please submit your CV and cover letter using the "Apply Now" button via Talent Attract.
Deadline for applications: Monday 9 June 2025 23:59 (CET)
We strongly encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds, especially those traditionally underrepresented in our Secretariat. This includes women, people with disabilities, and applicants from ICES member countries currently underrepresented on staff.
Shortlisted candidates will be asked to complete a brief technical assessment, followed by two interviews—the first virtual and the second in person—taking place in the last two weeks of June.
Questions about the position may be directed to Lotte Worsøe Clausen, Head of the Advice Department ([email protected]).
For more information about ICES, please visit our home page.
