Based at the Domestic Animal Services (DAS) facility in Symonston, the Veterinary Officer is responsible for the maintenance of the health and welfare of dogs held in care, including conducting basic treatment, de-sexing, vaccination, and assessment of dogs held at the facility and occasionally cats. This includes dealing with dangerous and aggressive dogs day-to-day to ensure that their welfare needs are met.

Supporting DAS’ enforcement of the Domestic Animal Act 2000 and Animal Welfare Act 1992, they will lead a de-sexing program for unowned dogs and cats and other associated partnerships. In addition, they will support the Animal Welfare Authority to achieve their objectives.

As a senior leader within the City and Environment Directorate (CED), the ideal candidate has excellent interpersonal and organisational skills, demonstrates initiative, and can manage competing priorities. They will give high priority to building and maintaining a safety and animal welfare-focused culture and will work closely with foster and rescue groups.

This position may be exposed to sensitive and traumatic situations and material, including potential to encounter aggressive or agitated customers, as well as viewing images and other materials associated with animal cruelty and injuries to people and/or animals.

This position is appointed as an Authorised Person and Authorised Officer under the Domestic Animals Act 2000, Biosecurity Act 2023, and Animal Welfare Act 1992. This position involves direct supervision of staff.

Eligibility/Other Requirements:

• A minimum of five years’ experience working within a veterinary practice will be highly regarded.
• Tertiary qualifications in Veterinary Medicine or equivalent are required.
• Registration with the ACT Veterinary Surgeons Board or ability to obtain registration prior to commencement is required.
• Visa holders are eligible to apply for both permanent and temporary roles. Those with eligible visas may be considered for permanent employment, while individuals with temporary residency or limited-duration visas may be offered permanent employment for the duration of their visas.
• This position requires a National Police Check prior to commencement.
• This position requires a Driver Licence (Class C) or equivalent.
• This position requires a pre-employment medical assessment which includes audiometric testing and a moderate-level functional assessment.
• Be willing to be, and remain, vaccinated against vaccine-preventable diseases during their employment.
• Due to the regular and ongoing exposure to traumatic material, including cases of animal cruelty, neglect, and euthanasia, participation in monthly counselling sessions through the Employee Assistance Program is a mandatory requirement of this role.

Notes: An order of merit will be established from this selection process and may be used to fill future identical vacancies over the next 12 months.