ABOUT US
SPCA is one of New Zealand’s most trusted and beloved charities, advocating for animal welfare and supporting animals in need since 1872. As the largest animal welfare charity in the country, we are committed to improving animal welfare, advocating for positive change, and making a real difference in the lives of over 30,000 animals and their owners each year. We are values-driven and purpose-led, with a deep passion for treating animals with respect, kindness, and compassion.

ABOUT THE ROLE
We have an exciting opportunity for an Animal Care Lead at our SPCA Centre in Dunedin. This is a full-time, permanent role where you will be key to leading a passionate and dedicated team, ensuring the highest standards of animal welfare are met daily.

What you’ll do:

• Lead and develop a team of Animal Attendants, fostering a collaborative and high-performing environment.
• Oversee daily animal care operations, ensuring best practices in animal welfare, behaviour, and medical care.
• Manage rosters, staff and volunteer training, and performance.
• Collaborate with internal teams and the community to achieve positive animal welfare outcomes.
• Maintain high standards in health & safety, compliance, and operational procedures.
• Demonstrate empathy for animals and people, addressing challenges with resilience.
• Communicate effectively with customers, volunteers, and team members.

For further information about this role, please refer to the position description (available via the SPCA Join Our Team page).

ABOUT YOU
You thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic environment and have a natural ability to lead, guide, and inspire your team to achieve the best outcomes for animal welfare. With a strong background in animal care, excellent communication skills, and a collaborative mindset, you’ll ensure a supportive and efficient work environment.

What you’ll bring:

• Proven experience in a leadership or supervisory role, ideally in an animal-related field.
• Excellent communication, decision-making, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to manage budgets, schedules, and team performance effectively.
• A collaborative leadership style with the ability to thrive in a dynamic, fast-paced environment.
• Strong organisational skills and the ability to prioritise tasks and manage workloads effectively.
• Proficiency in administration and computer systems, with experience in using Microsoft Office or similar tools.
• Strong knowledge of animal care, behaviour, and welfare (animal handling experience or qualification advantageous).

SPCA PURRRKS

• Paid day off on your birthday and free on-site parking.
• Access to professional development opportunities.
• A supportive and passionate team environment that fosters growth.
• Opportunity to work for New Zealand's leading animal welfare charity.
• A chance to make a real difference in the welfare of animals across New Zealand.

HOW TO APPLY
Ready to lead and make a difference? Apply today! If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to recruitment@spca.nz.

Applicants must have the legal right to work in New Zealand.