We are current looking for a Probationary Inspector to join the team in the Edinburgh/Lanarkshire region. 

If this sounds like a role you would be interested in, please read on for more information. 

• Hours – 37.5 hours per week, 10 days in 14 to include evening and weekend working on a rota basis 
• 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 184 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 Probationary Inspector do? 

Our Probationary Inspectors deal with many different types of such as welfare concerns, cases of suspected animal cruelty, removal of animals from situations where this is the deemed the most appropriate action and to carry out routine visits to establishments trading or displaying animals.

Working as part of a team, Inspectors will be involved in regular communication and collaboration with other Inspectors and Animal Rescue Officers when working on cases allocated to them by the Animal Helpline.

The first 6 months of a Probationary Inspectors role will be equipping themselves with the knowledge and experience required to become an authorised Inspector.  The Scottish SPCA are the only animal welfare charity to be able to directly prosecute those involved in animal welfare violations. 

Overview of main duties and responsibilities

• To Fully Investigate Complaints of Animal Cruelty determining the degree of animal neglect or cruelty if any; where a welfare problem is found take appropriate action; remove animal from situation when appropriate; make follow up enquiries or visits to ensure advice given has been acted upon; record fully and accurately all actions taken; prepare and present reports to Chief Inspector; prepare and present reports to the Procurator Fiscal if required
• Alleviate Suffering and Distress to Injured/Trapped Animals by assessing the degree of injury/illness if any and take appropriate action
• Carry Out Routine Visits to Animal Establishments by inspecting and assess the welfare of animals within the premises; assessing the condition of the animals, accommodation, husbandry and management and take appropriate action
• Deliver Educational talks as required
• Have a knowledge of Society operation instructions provided and be fully conversant in Animal Welfare legislation
• Develop and maintain a good working relationship with colleagues, the general public, other Society Departments and Branches and the following agencies:  Police; Veterinary Surgeons; State Veterinary Surgeons; Procurator Fiscal; Local Authorities i.e. Animal Health Inspectors, Housing Officers, Dog Wardens; Coast Guards

Please see full Job Description link for more detailed information on the role. 

 What makes a good Probationary Inspector? 

• Good communication skills including ability to write complex reports for submission to the Procurator Fiscal
• Practical experience with livestock, horses and domestic animals
• Experience working with the general public with the ability to handle challenging situations
• Good attention to detail
• Proficient IT skills
• Ideally a qualification in animal husbandry or science
• A strong interest in and commitment to animal welfare
• Resilient and calm approach to their role 
• Act with professional integrity 
• Flexible approach to work and ability to work well within a team including willingness to work within group shift pattern
• Hold a Full UK manual driving licence

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.

Scottish Charity No SC 006467