• Join one of Victoria’s most recognised animal welfare organisations
• Contribute to the development & management of the veterinary behaviour service
• Make a difference to all animals with complex behavioural issues

Work as part of our Animal Behaviourist Team at our Burwood East site, and help all animals in our care achieve the best welfare outcomes!

About RSPCA Victoria

RSPCA Victoria is a non-government, community-based, not-for-profit organisation whose vision is ‘ending cruelty to all animals’. We are Victoria’s best-known and most respected animal welfare organisation.

Our organisation’s purpose is to work with the community to achieve outstanding animal welfare through education, advocacy, and animal care and protection. RSPCA Victoria’s values - clarity and accountability, respect and consideration, and expertise and collaboration - set clear expectations for all our staff and volunteers.

About the Role

RSPCA VIC is currently seeking an Animal Behaviourist to join our Animal Behaviour Team, based primarily at our Burwood East site.

This is a diverse and exciting role, working as part of a small team but collaborating with departments across the organisation.

• Perform behavioural assessments and recommend behavioural enrichment and rehabilitation programs to support the achievement of the best possible welfare outcome for every animal in our care, but with key focus on dogs and cats;
• Provide coaching and support to employees, volunteers and foster carers about animal behaviour to build the capability of the organisation in behavioural assessments and rehabilitation, as well as increasing awareness and understanding of animal behaviour;
• Ensure all necessary documentation relating to the training and rehabilitation of animals are recorded accurately and in accordance with RSPCA Victoria procedures and timeframes

Skills and Experience

This is a challenging role, requiring strong animal handling skills coupled with exceptional inter-personal skills, and a compassionate approach to all members of the community – people and animals alike.

• Previous experience of working with dogs and cats is essential. Experience of working in a shelter or similar setting is highly desirable;
• Previous experience in an animal behaviour role will be highly regarded;
• A certificate/qualification in Animal Care or Training will be highly regarded;
• Ability to work in a fast paced and challenging work environment, whilst showing great care and compassion;
• Demonstrated experience working collaboratively in a team environment;
• A police check will be required for successful candidates
• Position also requires a valid Victorian Driver’s License, current tetanus vaccination and proof of your COVID-19 double vaccination status

What we can offer you

• Encouraged work-life balance and a broad range of leave entitlements, including annual leave, personal leave, additional leave (6 days per year pro-rata), purchased leave, paid parental leave, study leave and paid family and domestic violence leave
• Recognised by Mental Health First Aid Australia, as a skilled workplace - Access to a range of mental health and wellbeing supportive initiatives, including confidential counselling services and education programs
• Generous discount on products and services, including Royal Canin pet food, Hush Puppies footwear and RSPCA Victoria retail and vet clinic products and services
• Salary packaging and novated lease arrangements on offer with leading provider, Maxxia
• Access to a range of learning and development opportunities, including opportunities for further study, that will benefit and support you in your role.

How to Apply

To learn more about our organisation and this job opportunity, please visit our website at www.rspcavic.org and download the Position Description attached to this advertisement for more details. Alternatively, please contact our Recruitment team via [email protected] using the subject line: Animal Behaviourist enquiry via EthicalJobs.

If this role is of interest to you, click "Apply Now" and submit your application with your cover letter and resume, addressing how you meet the selection criteria.

RSPCA Victoria is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive work environment and is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment and we strongly encourage people from all cultural backgrounds to apply, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. Applicants are welcome to access RSPCA Victoria’s Diversity & Inclusion Policy here.