ABOUT THE TEAM

Our Centres are a hive of activity where every day is dedicated to animal welfare, community connection and making a real difference. We have Centre Managers, Vets, Vet Nurses, Animal Attendants, Foster Coordinators, Customer Services Officers and everything in between. Our people are kind, resilient, customer centric and calm under pressure. 

ABOUT THE ROLE

We’re looking for a Head Veterinary Nurse to join our dedicated Hospital Team at our SPCA Wellington Centre. This is a Permanent - Full-Time role working Monday - Friday, 8.00 am - 5.00 pm.

Reporting to the Head Veterinarian, this role is all about ensuring the animals in our care receive the highest standard of medical treatment and compassionate care.

You’ll be responsible for:

• Managing a team of five nurses and one animal care attendant
• Conflict resolution with our vet care volunteers where nurses are unable to manage this
• Maintaining the vet care equipment
• Performing the orders twice weekly, and ordering prescription food once monthly
• Coordinating daily hospital activities and ensuring efficient, safe animal flow
• Mentoring, supporting, and training staff, students, and volunteers
• Ensuring high standards of animal welfare, safety, and documentation
• Supporting veterinarians with assessments, treatment, and follow-up care
• Promoting Fear Free and species-specific care practices
• Contributing to continuous improvement and hospital process development, including cost saving ideas
• Eventually a qualification as an Auxiliary Officer that provides powers under the Animal Welfare Act to make decisions on animals in our care

ABOUT YOU

You’re a calm, confident, and compassionate vet nurse who thrives in a dynamic team. You’re ready to be hands-on, whether it’s prepping for surgery, advising a fosterer, or helping a scared stray feel safe.

Skills & Experience:

• A Veterinary Nursing qualification with at least 5 years’ clinical experience
• Ideally experience with managing a team already, although we can support you into this leadership role, if you are the right candidate
• Strong skills in both medical and surgical nursing within a fast-paced environment
• Experience mentoring or training others
• Excellent communication and teamwork skills
• Sound judgement and decision-making focused on animal welfare
• High attention to detail and strong organisational ability
• Computer proficiency, including Microsoft Office and data entry systems
• A positive, compassionate attitude aligned with SPCA’s values

SPCA PURRRKS

If you’re looking for a role where your skills, compassion, and wellbeing truly matter, here’s what we offer:

• A collaborative, supportive workplace culture where kindness and development are key
• The privilege of knowing your work directly improves the lives of animals in need
• Exclusive discounts and benefits, including pet insurance and retail offers
• Access to 24/7 confidential wellness support
• Enjoy a paid day off for your birthday!

TO APPLY 

For more information click the apply now button and that will take you to our careers site. On our careers site you can click here for more about the impressive work we do and the impact we have and click here for the job description.

To help us change the lives of animals across New Zealand click Apply Now and tell us why you’re the right fit. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, so apply now to avoid missing out! 

We value diversity and welcome applicants from all backgrounds. All candidates must have the legal right to work in New Zealand.