This is a unique opportunity to work within a small, highly motivated mixed civil service/military team in a role providing integral support to Force Generation training programs.

Responsible to OC 9-G through the Canine Support Cell (CSC) Chief Instructor (CI) for the well being of Military Working Dogs (MWD), care of associated equipment and animal welfare support to the Unit.

This is a full-time post advertised at 37 hours net per week. However, requests for flexible, part-time working and job share will be considered, taking into account at all times the operational needs of the Department.

Maintain and develop MWD kennels, any associated infrastructure and equipment to ensure a safe and healthy working environment for both MWDs and the other staff members.

Ensure all MWDs are kept at the correct level of general fitness and are provided with the correct levels of nutrition.

Ensure all canine health checks are conducted in a timely manner and any prescribed medications are administered correctly

Assist in the management of CSC stores to ensure serviceability of essential items and adequate provision of consumables in order to facilitate training and operations.

The duties/responsibilities listed above describe the post as it is at present and is not intended to be exhaustive.

The Job holder is expected to accept reasonable alterations and additional tasks of a similar level as necessary.

All Job Holders are required to complete, and remain in-date for, CS Mandatory Learning and are expected to undertake any identified role specific training.

The Job Holder will need to:

• Be capable of working with minimal guidance or supervision, using own initiative and sound judgement, as will be expected to undertake some aspects of role independently.
• Have good inter-personal skills and be able to work as part of a small team.
• Possess good organisational skills.
• Be able to work in a high pressure environment.
• Be prepared to undertake role specific training and paid/unpaid overtime as required

Essential:

• Capable of working to the required standard, both independently and as part of a small team
• Be prepared to undertake Kennel Managers course at Defence Animal Centre

Desirable:

• Experience of working with animals, in particular canines.
• Certificate in Hydrotherapy for small animals.

We’ll assess you against these behaviours during the selection process:

• Managing a Quality Service
• Working Together
• Changing and Improving
• Making Effective Decisions

Alongside your salary of £24,549, Ministry of Defence contributes £7,111 towards you being a member of the Civil Service Defined Benefit Pension scheme. Find out what benefits a Civil Service Pension provides (opens in a new window).

• Learning and development tailored to your role
• An environment with flexible working options
• A culture encouraging inclusion and diversity
• A Civil Service pension with an employer contribution of 28.97%
• 25 days paid annual leave rising (1 day per year) to 30 days upon completion of 5 years’ service (pro rata). In addition to 8 public holidays per year, you will also receive leave for the King’s birthday
• Hybrid working, where role permits
• An opportunity to be considered for Reward & Recognition.
• Family friendly policies including parental leave and adoption leave
• Professional and personal development of skills
• Minimum of 15 days special leave in a rolling 12 month period for volunteer reserve commitments
• Special paid leave to volunteer up to 6 days per year

The Command Team within Hamworthy Barracks acknowledge that this is a demanding work environment and our aim is to provide a great work-life balance. The Unit offers a range of onsite facilities, with a well-equipped gymnasium, swimming pool, Community Centre, convenience shop, food outlets and limited on-site parking.