About SPCA
ABOUT SPCA At SPCA, we're here for animals in need. Every year, we rescue, rehabilitate, shelter, and advocate for over 30,000 animals across Aotearoa. But our work doesn't stop at the Centre doors. We are deeply embedded in our communities, building awareness, driving education, and creating real change for animal welfare. If you're someone who thrives on being out in the community, connecting with people, and making a visible difference for animals, you can do that here, every day.
About the Role
ABOUT THE ROLE We have an opportunity for a Community Support Officer to join our SPCA Ashburton team. This is a permanent, full‐time role (40 hours per week), worked on a rotating roster across Monday to Sunday.
This is an impactful community‐facing, field‐based role where you will act as a key representative of SPCA across the region. You will be actively out in the community delivering engagement activities, supporting events, building relationships, and ensuring SPCA is visible, accessible, and trusted.
Alongside this, you will also provide critical operational support through animal transport, emergency coordination, public enquiries, and Centre‐based support when required. This is a role for someone who enjoys variety, autonomy, and getting out into the community to make things happen.
Key Responsibilities
* Deliver and lead community engagement activities including events, school visits, and public outreach initiatives across the region
* Build and maintain strong relationships with community groups, schools, volunteers, and local stakeholders and business leaders to strengthen SPCA presence and impact locally
* Proactively identify and develop new engagement opportunities that increase SPCA visibility and support in the community
* Respond to public enquiries in a professional, calm, and empathetic manner across phone, email, and face‐to‐face interactions
* Triage and coordinate animal emergencies, support dispatch and ambulance responses, and deliver safe transport and hands‐on animal care
* Support Centre operations including data entry (e.g., Shelter Buddy), donation collection, equipment/vehicle upkeep, and general operational tasks
* Work closely with volunteers, fostering positive relationships and ensuring safe, supported participation in SPCA activities
About You
You're someone who is confident, approachable, and energised by working with people and communities. You are equally comfortable speaking in front of a group, managing a busy event, or responding calmly to an animal emergency. You're proactive, self‐directed, and naturally look for ways to connect SPCA with the community in meaningful ways.
You Will Also Bring
* A current (or willingness to obtain) Auxiliary Officer Licence under Section 125(1) of the Animal Welfare Act 1999 (essential)
* Full, clean driver's licence with confidence driving manual, vans and towing trailers (desirable)
* Experience in animal handling or animal welfare work (essential)
* Strong communication and relationship‐building skills with diverse communities
* Confidence engaging with the public in both positive and challenging situations
* Ability to work independently and take ownership of community engagement activity
* Strong computer literacy and ability to learn systems
* Physical capability to perform hands‐on animal and field‐based work
* High levels of empathy, resilience, initiative, and professionalism
Why Join SPCA
* Enjoy a paid day off for your Birthday, it's our way of celebrating you!
* A workplace culture where collaboration, development and kindness are key.
* Exclusive discounts and benefits, including pet insurance and retail offers.
* Access to 24/7 confidential wellness support.
* Feel good knowing your work is improving the lives of animals in need.
Apply Now
To be a visible force for animal welfare in your community, submit your CV and cover letter. For more details, view the position description.
SPCA is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes applications from all backgrounds. All applicants must have the legal right to work in New Zealand.
#J-18808-Ljbffr