Special Investigations Unit Inspector

SCOTTISH SOCIETY FOR THE PREVENTION OF CRUELTY TO ANIMALS; Dunfermline; On-site; GBP 29,000 - 35,000; Full time

Job summary

An established animal welfare charity is seeking a dedicated Inspector for their Special Investigations Unit. This role involves investigating serious animal welfare issues across Scotland, requiring excellent communication skills and collaboration with various agencies. The ideal candidate will have practical experience with animals, a strong commitment to animal welfare, and the ability to handle challenging situations with professionalism. Join a passionate team making a significant impact in the community and help protect the welfare of animals in need.

Qualifications

• Experience in animal welfare and customer-focused environments is essential.
• Must possess a full driving licence and a strong commitment to animal welfare.

Responsibilities

• Investigate complaints of animal cruelty and alleviate suffering.
• Collaborate with various agencies and prepare criminal cases.
• Conduct routine visits and provide educational talks.

Skills

Practical experience with livestock

Customer care skills

Ability to handle challenging situations

Attention to detail

Strong interest in animal welfare

Flexibility

Teamwork

Education

Full driving licence

Job description

We are currently looking for an Inspector to join the Special Investigations Unit.

If this sounds like a role you would be interested in, please read on for more information.
Hours – 37.5 hours per week within a group rota, between the hours of 7.30am and 11pm, to include weekends. Flexibility with hours is essential.
Salary – starting at £29,463 per annum (FTE).
Contract Type – Permanent.

About the Scottish SPCA
As Scotland’s animal welfare charity, we have been on-hand to protect animals and prevent cruelty since 1839 – that’s over 185 years of creating a better world for all animals. We’ve grown to become a national charity which celebrates the strength of the human-animal bond and enriches the lives of animals and people. We are Scotland’s animal champions.

What does a Special Investigations Unit Inspector do?
A Special Investigations Officer operates as one of a small specialist team covering Scotland and out with Scotland in accordance with standard procedures, investigating serious and protracted issues involving animal welfare. This will involve regular communication and collaboration and joint working internally and with external agencies. Gathering evidence and intelligence. Reporting and preparing criminal cases to the crown and giving evidence at court.

Overview of main duties and responsibilities

1. Fully Investigate Complaints of Animal Cruelty
2. Alleviate Suffering and Distress to Injured/Trapped Animals
3. Carry Out Routine Visits to Animal Establishments
4. Educational Duties – giving education talks as required
5. Work in accordance with the Operation Instructions provided and be fully conversant in Animal Welfare legislation
6. Develop and maintain a good working relationship with colleagues, the general public, other Society Departments and Branches, and the following agencies:
1. Police
2. Veterinary Surgeons
3. State Veterinary Surgeons
4. Procurator Fiscal
5. Local Authorities i.e. Animal Health Inspectors, Housing Officers, Dog Wardens
6. Coast Guards
7. Have a good general bearing in terms of manner and appearance in accordance with the Operations Instructions
8. Exhibit excellent customer care skills when communicating with all people from all different backgrounds

What makes a good Special Investigations Unit Inspector?

1. Practical experience with livestock, horses, and domestic animals
2. Working with the general public
3. Previous experience in a customer-focused environment
4. A strong interest in and commitment to animal welfare
5. Resilient and calm approach
6. The ability to handle challenging situations
7. Act with professional integrity
8. Flexible
9. Work well within a team
10. Attention to detail
11. Full driving licence
12. Willingness to work within group shift pattern

This role is subject to a Standard Disclosure Scotland check.

We are fortunate that some of our roles attract a high level of interest; therefore, we may have to close roles earlier than advertised. Early application submissions are highly recommended. This also means that we cannot provide individual feedback to unsuccessful candidates due to receiving high levels of applications.

The Scottish Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals is an Equal Opportunities Employer. We recognise that a diverse and inclusive workforce is essential to achieving our core mission.

The Scottish Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals is an Equine Welfare Member of the National Equine Welfare Council.