Senior Shelter Officer (Animal Care)

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• Your chance to work with animals in a team environment all day long


• Permanent Full-time working Tuesday to Saturday


• Henderson based with agility to work across multiple locations

He angitūtanga: The opportunity  

On a daily basis, you will be responsible for assisting the Shelter Manager in running the shelter with a focus on dog behaviour and overall animal care. This includes helping to lead, motivate, and develop the team to maintain high standards of animal care. You will ensure all animals in the Henderson Animal Shelter are cared for, including temperament testing, feeding, exercising, and cleaning. You will assist and mentor Animal Shelter Officers, making sure they are well‑trained and confident in their responsibilities. With strong communication skills, you will be customer‑focused by assisting with adoptions, providing education, and building relationships with both internal and external customers.

This role works five days a week, including weekends and public holidays. The hours will be 40 hours per week with an 7:45 am start time. The role is primarily based in Henderson, however flexibility is required to work at other shelters in Silverdale, Manukau and Pukekohe when needed. 

He kōrero mōu: About you

You will be able to demonstrate competent animal‑handling skills coupled with outstanding customer service, while also helping to lead, motivate, and develop the team to maintain high standards of animal care. You will need to be flexible, have a strong work ethic, and be able to meet the physical demands of the role. You will impress with your excellent verbal and written communication skills.

Previous animal handling or husbandry is required for this role.  An animal care certificate or equivalent qualification would be advantageous (but not a compulsory requirement).  

Ngā āhuatanga kei a mātou: What we offer

At Auckland Council, you will join a dynamic, supportive environment where your mahi (work) will directly impact the lives of over 1.7 million Aucklanders. We offer flexible working conditions, a focus on well-being, and a culture of continuous improvement.

We are proud to be recognised for our commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion. We are accredited by GenderTick, a signatory of the Pride Pledge. These commitments reflect our ongoing efforts to create a workplace where all staff feel valued, respected, and empowered to thrive. 

Together, we can create a Tāmaki Makaurau we can all be proud of.

As part of our organisation, please view a range of our: benefits

Tono Mai: Apply Now!

Application close date: Thursday, 19 February 2026

Salary range: $76,000 to $89,000 depending on experience plus Kiwisaver

Access position description here

This role is deemed safety-sensitive and in line with Auckland Council policy, you will be required to complete pre-employment drug and alcohol testing.

Auckland Council is an equal opportunity employer. We serve the diverse communities of Tāmaki Makaurau and welcome applications from people of all backgrounds - regardless of gender, ethnicity, age, educational background, or religious beliefs. We also welcome applications from our Rainbow communities as well as disabled and neurodivergent people. We are committed to making our hiring process accessible to everyone. If you require any support or adjustments at any stage of the recruitment process, please let us know.