ABOUT US
SPCA is a leading animal welfare charity in New Zealand, dedicated to protecting and caring for over 30,000 animals each year. Through rescue, rehabilitation, shelter, advocacy, and education, we work to create a kinder, better future for animals across Aotearoa.

Our teams prevent cruelty, advocate for stronger animal welfare standards, educate and engage communities about animal welfare, rehabilitate injured or sick animals, provide safe shelter, and help reunite or rehome animals in need. We also respond to urgent animal rescues, take action to uphold animal welfare laws, and support our wider operations, including Op Shops and other services that fund and enable our work.

Every day, our people make a real difference for animals and the communities that care for them, and we want you to join our mission.

ABOUT THE ROLE
We have an exciting opportunity in our Science & Advocacy team based in our National office in Auckland or remotely from anywhere in New Zealand for a:

• Scientific Officer
• Permanent
• 40 hours per week (Monday to Friday)

As part of the Science & Advocacy team, this position supports SPCA’s mission by providing high-quality, evidence-based advice, supporting research, and project delivery consistent with the vision, values and aspirations of the organisation. The role contributes to advocacy, policy and research initiatives, ensuring SPCA’s positions and advocacy campaigns are grounded in robust animal welfare science. The Scientific Officer supports projects and initiatives aimed at improving animal welfare, communicates scientific evidence and best practice to internal teams and external stakeholders, and works collaboratively to achieve meaningful and lasting improvements for animals in New Zealand.

Key Responsibilities

• Advocacy Input: Contribute evidence-based input to support SPCA’s animal welfare advocacy priorities and policy positions.
• Submissions and Reports: Prepare written and oral submissions for government, regulatory, and industry consultations.
• Research and Analysis: Conduct literature reviews, analyse data, and prepare scientific reports or research publications.
• Scientific Communication: Present technical and scientific information clearly to internal and external audiences.
• Public Communications: Support the development of accurate, evidence-based public and educational materials.
• Collaboration: Work closely with the National Science Manager, Science and Advocacy Team, and wider SPCA staff to achieve organisational goals.
• Stakeholder Engagement: Build and maintain strong relationships with partners, stakeholders, and research networks.

Want more details? Just click Apply now, and you’ll be taken to our SPCA careers portal where you can open the Position Description link to view the full PD.

ABOUT YOU
We are looking for someone who brings:

• Qualifications: Postgraduate degree in animal welfare science, policy, or related research (PhD preferred).
• Experience: Background in animal welfare science, policy development, or advocacy; experience in stakeholder engagement or contributing to advocacy campaigns desirable.
• Scientific and Policy Skills: Strong ability to analyse and apply scientific evidence to projects, advocacy, and policy work (including consultation submissions).
• Communication: Excellent written and verbal communication skills, able to present complex information clearly to varied audiences.
• Project Management: Proven ability to plan, manage, and deliver projects on time.
• Teamwork: Collaborative approach with experience working effectively within a team.
• Personal Attributes: Passionate about animal welfare with an interest in shelter medicine, professional, evidence-driven, and self-motivated with strong organisational skills.
• Integrity and Flexibility: Maintains confidentiality, demonstrates initiative, and is adaptable to travel or varied work hours when required.

SPCA PURRRKS
To support you in your role and beyond, we offer: 

• Flexible working - work remotely from home anywhere in New Zealand as part of a small (but “perfectly formed,” according to our CEO) collegial and supportive team.
• Laptop provided and flexibility to support your work-life balance.
• Enjoy a paid day off for your Birthday, it’s our way of celebrating you! 
• Exclusive discounts and benefits, including pet insurance and retail offers. 
• Access to 24/7 confidential wellness support. 

HOW TO APPLY
If you are ready to bring your skills and passion to a role that truly matters, apply now by submitting your CV and cover letter. We’re looking for someone who can join our team from mid to late January 2026 (start date negotiable for the right candidate).

Short-listed applicants will be invited to participate in a brief pre-screening phone call, followed by a formal interview (either in person or online). As part of the selection process, short-listed applicants will also be asked to deliver a short presentation and provide a written sample to demonstrate their analytical and communication skills.
 

SPCA is an equal opportunity employer, committed to diversity and inclusion in our workplace.