OVERALL PURPOSE OF THE JOB

• To support the day to day operation of the animal centre, providing care for the animals in the centre and maintaining administrative procedures.
• To assist in ensuring the health and safety of staff and volunteers and customers.
• To help develop good professional relations with the local community, volunteers and customers.
• To support the objectives of the Branch and to uphold and ensure empathy with the key purpose of the RSPCA by promoting the good name of the Branch through the promotion of its work.

MAIN DUTIES

ANIMAL CARE

1. Following instructions as laid down by the Animal Care Manager for preparation and provide food and water for all animals in the establishment.
2. Attend to the needs of individual animals, including:
   – Exercise
   – Coat care and grooming
   – Administration of first aid, treatments and medications as directed
3. Clean, disinfect and maintain to the required standard of cleanliness, animal accommodation, isolation and exercise areas; food preparation, laundry, storage, treatment and euthanasia facilities, reception, offices, stores, staff facilities including kitchens, toilets and outside areas.
4. Carry out checks on animals, including the taking of temperature and inspection of eyes, ear, nose and throat for signs of infection or abnormality and report any abnormalities to manager or deputy manager at the centre.
5. Assist with the inspection and/or treatment of animals by a veterinary surgeon, or other authorised person at the centre.
6. Assist with the humane euthanasia of animals, including carcass disposal
7. Maintain records, registers and statistics as required by management.
8. Support the Volunteer Fostering service.
9. Support and supervise student placements and volunteers

CUSTOMER CARE

1. To attend to the needs of general public in a professional manner, and to liaise with colleagues and volunteers as appropriate
2. Attend to the needs of clients/customers and other visitors to the Animal Centre which includes corporate supporters.
3. Deal with telephone enquiries when necessary.

ADMINISTRATION

1. Assist with ordering, stock rotation, presentation, sales and stock.
2. Ensure the safe receipt of money and donated goods.
3. Complete documentation relating to the acceptance and release of animals.
4. Use a computer to assist in the keeping of records when applicable.

HEALTH AND SAFETY

1. Assist in the monitoring and maintenance of all health and safety and fire prevention practices as laid down in the health and safety and fire manuals and policies and observe these in all aspects of your own work.
2. Ensure individual animals, buildings and exercise areas are secure, checking before work commences and when work finishes.
3. Report any faulty equipment, lighting, heating, ventilation equipment etc to the Branch Manager.

GENERAL

1. Support and work effectively with colleagues and volunteers within the Animal Centre and, where applicable, in other departments of the branch.
2. Support and work effectively with voluntary helpers at the Animal Centre.
3. To participate in fundraising or publicity events as the Branch may require.
4. Attend training courses and meetings as instructed by the Branch Manager or Animal Care Manager.
5. Drive the Animal Centre vehicle on Branch business if you hold a full driving licence.
6. Undertake any other duties as instructed by the Branch Management team, which fall logically within the remit of the post.

Person Specification:

Essential Criteria:

EDUCATION & TRAINING

• Level 2 or above in animal care
• GCSE English and Maths

EXPERIENCE

• Knowledge and experience of animal behaviour and animal husbandry of companion animals in a welfare centre environment

SPECIAL SKILLS & KNOWLEDGE

• Ability to prioritise workload and organisational skills,
• Full UK driving licence and willing to drive small van
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Able to work under direction from managers but equally able to use own initiative
• Knowledge of animal welfare issues, particularly as they relate to RSPCA policy and practice
• Health and safety knowledge and awareness
• Commitment to animal welfare and the work of the RSPCA
• Ability to motivate and inspire others

PERSONALITY & DISPOSITION

• Willingness to learn and acquire new skills through training
• Personable and with open approach to new ideas
• Effective team worker
• Able to communicate at all levels
• Honest, trustworthy and reliable
• Good time keeping
• Smart and tidy appearance
• Flexible approach

Desirable Criteria:

EDUCATION & TRAINING

• Degree in Animal Behaviour or equivalent in animal care
• Valid First Aid certificate
• Trained in RSPCA standard procedures

EXPERIENCE

• Experience of supporting volunteers in an animal centre environment

SPECIAL SKILLS & KNOWLEDGE

• Computer literate
• Ability to use databases accurately and effectively
• Ability to handle cash and follow financial procedures competently.

---

Please submit your CV and a cover letter explaining how you meet the role criteria to Katie Buckley via the Apply button below.

Note: Applications will close on 27th November, with interviews for shortlisted candidates to take place at Warrington RSPCA Branch from 2nd December onwards.