Airport Dog Handler – AMBASSAPAW Program!
Location: Avalon Airport, Lara VIC
Employment Type: Casual
Hours: Approx. 5 days per week, 4 hours per day (flexibility required)
About Avalon Airport
Avalon Airport is a key gateway to Victoria. Based in Lara, VIC and part of the Linfox Group, the airport provides a critical aviation function as Melbourne and Victoria’s second international airport and is emerging as a significant commercial, logistics and manufacturing property portfolio.
The Position
Avalon Airport is seeking a compassionate and experienced Casual Airport Dog Handler to support the on‑site care and wellbeing of our new airport therapy dog (in training) as part of our new AMBASSAPAW Program.
This unique role supports passenger wellbeing by helping anxious or nervous travellers feel at ease before flying, while actively supporting the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Program through visible, compassionate and inclusive assistance within the terminal.
What you will do
* Care for and supervise the airport therapy dog (in training) while on‑site
* Ensure the dog’s safety, health and wellbeing at all times
* Facilitate safe and appropriate interactions between our dog and passengers
* Support anxious passengers in a calm and reassuring manner
* Exercise and feed the dog and ensure access to clean water and shelter
* Maintain a safe environment, keeping the dog away from hazards and roadways
* Transport the dog when required (including to/from the owner’s property or appointments)
* Build a strong and trusting relationship with the dog
What you will bring
* Demonstrated experience handling and caring for dogs
* Appropriate animal handling qualifications
* Excellent customer service skills with a friendly, calm approach
* Confidence interacting with the public, including vulnerable passengers
* Strong sense of responsibility and safety awareness
* Valid and current drivers licence, and own transport
This role is ideal for candidates with experience such as:
o Veterinary nurse or veterinary assistant
o Dog trainer or animal behaviour specialist
o Animal care professional with relevant qualifications
A workplace that values you
Avalon Airport takes pride in maintaining a workplace culture that is friendly, down‑to‑earth, and fun, while still delivering a polished and professional corporate environment. We value connection, celebration, and recognition.
Our team enjoys:
* Team birthday celebrations!
* A Reward and Recognition Program to celebrate high performance.
* Barbecues and morning teas to mark special achievements.
* An annual Christmas party!
* A relaxed and supportive culture within a corporate environment.
* Paid parental leave for eligible employees.
* A role with autonomy, ownership, and opportunities to shape how things are done.
* Exposure to a dynamic aviation, commercial, and logistics environment.
Avalon Airport are an equal opportunity employer committed to a diverse and inclusive workforce. Avalon Airport share the Linfox values of Loyalty, Integrity, Fairness and Trust.
To be successful in the role, the successful applicant must meet Linfox employment requirements, which includes a criminal history check, medical assessment, drug and alcohol testing, and the ability to obtain an Aviation Security Identity Card (ASIC).