ABOUT US

SPCA New Zealand is one of New Zealand’s most trusted charities, helping protect over 30,000 animals every year. Through rescue, rehabilitation, sheltering, and advocacy, we work to improve the lives of animals across the country. Our Animal Services teams operate 28 Centres nationwide, from Kerikeri to Invercargill, and are essential to delivering the hands-on care and community support that make our work possible.

Our Invercargill Centre plays a vital role in the local community, supporting animals in need while working closely with adopters, volunteers, and partners to create positive and lasting outcomes for animal welfare. This is a passionate, resilient team environment where no two days are the same.

ABOUT THE ROLE

We have an exciting opportunity at our SPCA Invercargill Centre for a:

• Casual Animal Attendant
• Casual hours 7am-7pm Monday to Sunday as required

This is a practical, fast-paced role where you’ll be working directly with animals every day. You’ll need to be confident handling a range of animals, including those that may be stressed, unwell, or require extra care.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide high-quality daily care for all animals in the centre, ensuring welfare standards are consistently met.
• Monitor animal health and behaviour, including administering medication as required.
• Support adoption pathways and assist with adoption enquiries in person, by phone, and online.
• Maintain accurate and up-to-date animal records within SPCA systems.
• Assist with routine veterinary visits and animal handling.
• Support enrichment, socialisation, and behaviour development for animals in care.
• Work collaboratively with staff and volunteers to improve animal outcomes and centre operations.
• Ensure animal areas are clean, safe, and functioning effectively.

ABOUT YOU

This role will suit someone who already has practical, hands-on experience working with animals and is confident in a shelter or similar environment. You bring resilience, sound judgement, and a calm, capable approach when working with animals in a range of conditions.

Skills & Experience

• Proven animal handling experience (e.g. SPCA, animal shelters, rescue organisations, kennels, catteries, vet clinics, or similar)
• Confidence handling animals with different temperaments, including those that may be anxious or reactive
• Experience working with volunteers or community groups is advantageous.
• Strong communication and customer service skills.
• Ability to manage challenging or emotional situations with empathy and professionalism.
• Confidence working in a busy environment where multitasking is essential.
• A positive attitude and the ability to think on your feet.

SPCA PURRRKS

Some of the benefits of joining our team include:

• A supportive, purpose-driven team culture.
• Ongoing learning and development opportunities.
• Exclusive discounts and benefits, including pet insurance and retail offers.
• Access to 24/7 confidential wellness support.
• On-site parking (first in first served)

HOW TO APPLY

Click apply now to submit your application. We review applications as they are received, so we encourage early applications. As part of your application, please describe your hands-on animal handling experience, including the types of animals and environments you’ve worked in (e.g. shelter, kennel, vet clinic, rescue).

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