Extension Officer - Fisheries

Location: Sint Eustatius, Caribbean Netherlands

Closing date: 21 September, 2026

Employment type: Temporary position for a trial period of one year

Working hours: Full-time, 36 hours per week

Salary: Scale 8, gross monthly between $3,312.81 and $4,601.12

Education level: Dutch MBO level 4

The Public Entity Sint Eustatius (OLE) carries out both municipal and provincial tasks on this special municipality of the Netherlands. Together with our 180 colleagues, we work towards good governance, sustainable development and a strong community. Working at OLE means helping shape the future of a unique and resilient island.

Tasks and Responsibilities

Sustainable fisheries support the livelihoods of local fishermen and help protect Statia’s marine environment. As Extension Officer - Fisheries, you provide practical advice and support to the fishing community. You help fishermen improve their practices, strengthen cooperation and develop opportunities within the local fishing sector.

You will be based at the LVV Unit (Agriculture, Animal Husbandry and Fisheries), within the Directorate of ENI (Economic, Nature and Infrastructure Development). You will work closely with the Data Monitoring Officer (DMO) and connect the fishing community with the Fisheries Business Support & Advice Unit.

• Provide practical and technical advice to local fishermen on sustainable fishing, productivity and profitability. Visit fishermen to discuss their individual needs and practices.
• Organise training sessions, workshops and field demonstrations. Develop and share educational materials and contribute to public awareness campaigns on responsible fishing.
• Support the fishermen’s cooperative to strengthen collaboration and improve its daily operations.
• Advise fishermen on fish marketing, product distribution and fisheries legislation.
• Support government programmes on fish processing, market access and storage facilities. Take part in experimental fish processing projects and share findings with the fishing community.
• Carry out exploratory trips to identify fishing opportunities and advise on suitable methods. Conduct surveys on fishing boats together with fishermen and the DMO.
• Work with government agencies, research institutes and fisheries stakeholders. Coordinate activities with the Fisheries Business Support & Advice Unit.
• Keep accurate records and submit timely reports to the LVV Manager. Follow safety procedures, maintain equipment and apply sustainable practices during fieldwork.

Employment Conditions

• Temporary employment for a trial period of one year.
• Salary: Scale 8, gross monthly between $3,312.81 and $4,601.12 (36-hour workweek).
• Working hours: Full-time, 36 hours per week.
• Allowances: Holiday allowance of 8.33% and an end-of-year bonus of 8.33% of the annual salary.
• 182 holiday hours per year pro rata based on a 36-hour working week.
• Benefits: Inclusion in the pension fund.
• A supportive and professional working environment.
• A relocation scheme for candidates who respond from outside the island.

Required Skills and Competencies

• Secondary vocational working and thinking level equivalent to Dutch MBO level 4, demonstrated through education or relevant practical experience.
• Proven knowledge and experience in the fisheries sector or fisheries management.
• Familiarity with sustainable fishing practices, relevant fisheries legislation and developments in the sector.
• Physical fitness to carry out fieldwork outdoors and on fishing boats, including in high temperatures.
• Clear communication skills in both English and Dutch, verbally and in writing.
• Good organisational skills and the ability to keep accurate records.
• Ability to work independently and cooperate with colleagues, fishermen and other stakeholders.
• Practical problem-solving skills and the ability to handle disagreements constructively.
• Ability to build trust and maintain positive relationships with the fishing community.
• Commitment to safe, responsible and sustainable working practices.

More Information

An assessment, case, and/or reference check may be part of the procedure. The selected candidate must provide a certificate of good conduct (VOG) and undergo medical evaluation for inclusion in the pension fund.

The following order of preference will be applied during the selection process:

• Employees of the Public Entity Sint Eustatius (internal)
• Residents from or currently living on Sint Eustatius
• Residents of the Caribbean part of the Netherlands
• All other candidates

Apply

Apply no later than 21 September via the application button and upload your CV and motivation letter, addressed to: The Executive Council of the Public Entity St. Eustatius Attn: Mr. Kimani Kitson-Walters.

Interviews will be scheduled in consultation with the candidate.

Questions about the position? Please contact Mr. Kimani Kitson-Walters at kimani.kitson-walters@statiagov.com.

Questions about the recruitment process? Please contact Recruitment Specialist Yvonne van ‘t Oever at vacancies@statiagov.com.

Applications via email will not be processed.