Qualifications for entry
Candidates to become a Scottish SPCA Inspector should have a minimum of five standard grades, including English, and ideally a qualification in animal husbandry or science. In addition, candidates should have previous experience of working with large and small animals and preferably be from a farm or veterinary background.
Candidates must be able to conduct educational duties, therefore part of this job is termed as a 'childcare' position, which will require you to successfully join the Disclosure Scotland PVG Scheme.
Candidates must also possess a full, preferably clean current UK driving licence. Successful applicants will be required to pass a medical examination.
Personal characteristics
The job demands a dedicated and caring person with a genuine concern for animals. It can often be unpleasant and can include dealing with animals which have suffered severely. Inspectors must be able to cope with highly charged and often emotional people and emergencies. Excellent customer care skills are required. Inspectors may also have to humanely destroy animals to prevent further suffering.
Hours of work
A Scottish SPCA Inspector's normal hours, other than for attendance at specific events or emergencies, are 37.5 hours per week, with one hour for lunch. Duties vary depending on region and a shift system may operate which will include weekend working and on-call duties until 10pm. Emergency call outs may also occur.
Training and promotion
Probationary Inspectors are stationed at our Glasgow Animal Rescue and Rehoming Centre for a period of training, normally six months, during which they will be stationed in at least one alternative area to gain field experience.
After completing training and passing a written examination, an Inspector will be posted anywhere in Scotland. Inspectors may be required to change the location of their workplace, either on a temporary or permanent basis, with postings at the discretion of the Chief Superintendent, who reserves the right to transfer Inspectors as required. Authorised removal costs are paid by the Society.
There is an intermediate examination at the end of two years service as an Inspector. After three years service an Inspector is required to sit an SVQ3 in animal welfare, to be completed within a year.
Subject to the approval of their Chief Inspector, Inspectors will be considered for promotion to Senior Inspector on recommendation from their Regional Superintendent two years after passing the advanced examination. Promotion to Chief Inspector and above is by selection.
Accomodation
Assistance is provided during probationary training. Upon their posting, an Inspector is required to find their own accommodation, though a housing allowance will be paid.
Candidates should only apply for the position of Probationary Inspector if they are prepared following training to be stationed anywhere in Scotland, including cities and islands.
Annual leave
An Inspector is entitled to four weeks annual leave, increasing to five weeks over a five year period. In addition, an Inspector is entitled to eleven paid holidays each year including New Year, Easter, Christmas and the five local seasonal holidays, except when such fall on market days, in which case other days to be substituted with approval.
Uniform
Inspectors are provided with uniform and protective clothing.
Salary
A Probationary Inspector's salary is currently £18,823 and a qualified Inspector's salary starts at £22,236.
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.