ABOUT SPCA
At SPCA, we’re here for animals in need. Every year we rescue, rehabilitate, shelter, and advocate for over 30,000 animals across Aotearoa. But the most powerful part of our work doesn’t just happen at the centre, it happens in the community.

We are building a stronger focus on prevention, working earlier with people and their animals so issues don’t escalate into crisis. That means being visible, trusted, and active out in communities every day, supporting both people and animals before they need urgent intervention.

ABOUT THE ROLE
We have an opportunity for a Community Support Officer to join our SPCA Kerikeri Centre. This is a permanent, part-time role (32hours per week), worked on a rotating roster across Monday to Sunday.

This is a field-based, community-focused prevention role where you work directly with people and animals to provide early support, build trust, and prevent welfare issues before they escalate. Your proactive work in the community helps improve outcomes for animals and reduces demand on SPCA centres.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
Community Outreach & Prevention

• Deliver community drop-ins and outreach activities across the region
• Deliver practical support including animal advice, vouchers, health treatments, and food support
• Attend community events such as markets, A&P shows, and local initiatives
• Build strong relationships with schools, local businesses, retirement villages and community groups
• Identify and act on opportunities to support people earlier and prevent escalation of welfare issues
• Act as a trusted and visible SPCA presence in the community

Field Response & Animal Support

• Respond to non-welfare complaint animal emergencies, including trapping and ambulance work
• Safely handle and transport sick, injured, or vulnerable animals
• Support coordination of field-based animal response activities in the region
• Assist with practical animal care and welfare support in the field

Community Engagement & Impact Tracking

• Respond to public enquiries with professionalism, empathy, and calm communication
• Record outreach activity and engagement data using SPCA’s national tracking system
• Contribute to understanding the impact of prevention-focused community work
• Support consistent national reporting of community engagement outcomes

To find out more click here to view the full Position Description

ABOUT YOU
You’re someone who is confident, approachable, and energised by working with people and communities. You’re proactive, self-directed, and naturally look for ways to connect SPCA with the community in meaningful ways.

You will also bring:

• A current (or willingness to obtain) Auxiliary Officer Licence under Section 125(1) of the Animal Welfare Act 1999 (essential) 
• Full, clean driver’s licence with confidence driving vans and towing trailers (essential)
• Strong animal handling experience (essential)
• Strong communication and relationship-building skills with diverse communities 
• Confidence engaging with the public in both positive and challenging situations 
• Strong computer literacy and ability to learn systems 
• Physical capability to perform hands-on animal and field-based work 
• High levels of empathy, resilience, initiative, and professionalism 

WHY JOIN SPCA
If you're looking for a role where your values, wellbeing, and contributions truly matter, here’s what we offer:

• Enjoy a paid day off for your Birthday, it’s our way of celebrating you!
• A workplace culture where collaboration, development and kindness are key.
• Exclusive discounts and benefits, including pet insurance and retail offers.
• Access to 24/7 confidential wellness support.
• Feel good knowing your work is improving the lives of animals in need.

APPLY NOW
If you’re ready to be a visible force for animal welfare in your community, click Apply now and submit your CV and cover letter. 

SPCA is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes applications from all backgrounds. All applicants must have the legal right to work in New Zealand.