Senior Kennels Assistant

HR Dept; England; On-site; GBP 20,000 - 25,000; Full time

Job summary

An animal care organization is looking for a Senior Kennels Assistant to provide high standards of care for animals, supervise junior staff, and maintain hygiene in the kennels. The ideal candidate will have a Level 2/3 Diploma in Animal Care and demonstrable experience in animal handling. This is a physically demanding role that requires a commitment to animal welfare and the ability to handle a variety of animals with care and compassion. Applicants should submit their CV and cover letter highlighting relevant experience.

Qualifications

• Experience in animal care, preferably in a kennel, rescue centre, or veterinary setting.
• Ability to handle dogs and cats safely and confidently.
• Strong understanding of animal welfare and basic health issues.

Responsibilities

• Provide high standards of care for all animals in the kennels.
• Monitor animal health and behaviour, reporting concerns.
• Administer basic medications and maintain health records.

Skills

Animal handling

Communication

Teamwork

Attention to detail

Education

Level 2/3 Diploma in Animal Care

Job description

Overview

The Senior Kennels Assistant plays a key role in the day-to-day care of animals within the kennels, ensuring high standards of cleanliness, health, and welfare are upheld at all times. This role involves supervising junior staff, assisting in the training of new team members, and supporting the Kennel Manager with operational duties.

The Downlands Team is small but all of us enjoy getting to know our extended family of visiting dogs and cats. Our staff are passionate about animals and have all completed Animal Care courses.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide high standards of care for all animals in the kennels, including feeding, cleaning, bathing, grooming, and exercising.
• Monitor animal health and behaviour, reporting concerns promptly to the Kennel Manager.
• Administer basic medications as prescribed and maintain accurate health records.
• Supervise and support junior kennel assistants, ensuring tasks are completed efficiently and to a high standard.
• Train new staff on kennel routines, animal handling, and hygiene protocols.
• Maintain cleanliness and hygiene across the kennels and associated areas, following infection control procedures.
• Handle animals with care, patience, and compassion, including those with behavioural or medical needs.
• Ensure compliance with health and safety and animal welfare regulations at all times.
• Maintain inventory of food, bedding, cleaning products, and supplies, reporting shortages or placing orders as needed.
• Assist with rota planning, record-keeping, and reporting tasks as delegated by the Kennel Manager.

Person Specification

Essential:

• Demonstrable experience in animal care, preferably in a kennel, rescue centre, or veterinary setting.
• Level 2/3 Diploma or equivalent in Animal Care.
• Proven ability to handle dogs and cats safely and confidently.
• Strong understanding of animal welfare, behaviour, and basic health issues.
• Experience supervising or mentoring junior team members.
• Physically fit and able to perform demanding manual tasks in all weather conditions.
• Strong communication and teamwork skills, along with excellent customer service.
• High attention to detail and strong organisational skills.
• Flexible, reliable, and committed to animal care.

Desirable:

• Experience in administering medications or working with animals.
• First Aid for Animals certification.
• Familiarity with kennel management software or record-keeping systems.

Working Conditions

• The role involves outdoor work in all weather conditions and includes weekends and public holidays on a rota basis.
• We would recommend candidates have their own transport, as we are based in a rural location.

How to Apply

Please send your CV and a one page cover letter highlighting your motivations, skills and relevant experience.