General duties
A Scottish SPCA Animal Care Assistant's main role is to attend to the needs of the animals in the Society's animal rescue and rehoming centres. Duties include feeding and grooming animals and cleaning their accommodation.
The Scottish SPCA rehomes animals to the general public so excellent customer care skills are essential.
The role is often physical and requires strong-minded individuals. Animal Care Assistants may have to assist in the humane destruction of animals on veterinary advice to prevent further suffering.
Qualifications for entry
Candidates must have previous experience working with animals, either on a voluntary or paid basis. Although not essential, a qualification in small animal welfare and basic IT skills would be preferable. A full UK driving licence would be desirable.
Personal characteristics
The job demands a dedicated and caring person with a genuine concern for animals.
Hours of work
An Animal Care Assistant's normal hours of work are 8.30am to 4.45pm, ten days out of 14 on a rota basis which will include weekends. These hours include a 45 minute break for lunch.
Training and probation
Animal Care Assistants serve a six month probationary period during which they will be trained in the various aspects of the job. Upon satisfactory completion of probation, their employment will be confirmed and further training will be undertaken, such as an SVQ2 in animal care.
Annual leave
An Animal Care Assistant is entitled to four weeks annual leave, increasing to five weeks over a five year period. In addition, an Animal Care Assistant is entitled to eleven paid holidays each year including New Year, Easter, Christmas and the five local seasonal holidays.
Uniform
An Animal Care Assistant is provided with a Society uniform.
Salary
An Animal Care Assistant's salary is £14,188.
Additional information
The Society offers a contributory pension scheme and all employees may join if eligible under the terms of the scheme. All employees are covered by free life assurance.
Successful applicants are advised to have an anti-tetanus vaccination.