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About RSPCA Queensland

For nearly 140 years, RSPCA Queensland has been a leading animal welfare charity, dedicated to improving the lives of animals – whether domestic, farmed, or native. We care for over 42,000 animals annually, relying on the generosity of animal lovers like you to fund 91% of our life-changing services.

Our Purpose: We exist for animals to live better lives.

About the Role

Imagine building your career in one of Australia’s most stunning locations, where world-class beaches, tropical rainforest and the Great Barrier Reef are right on your doorstep!

As the Animal Care Manager at our Cairns Animal Care Centre, you’ll play a pivotal role in leading animal welfare outcomes across Far North Queensland while enjoying a lifestyle many only dream of.

This is far more than a traditional shelter management role, you’ll lead the day-to-day operations of the Cairns site, overseeing a dedicated team of Animal Attendants, Veterinarian and Veterinary Nurse. You’ll work closely with teams across RSPCA Queensland, local councils, community organisations and key stakeholders to deliver exceptional care for animals while driving positive outcomes throughout the region.

From leading shelter operations and supporting animal welfare initiatives to building community partnerships, coordinating outreach programs and identifying opportunities for growth, this role offers variety, purpose and the chance to make a genuine impact every day.

What We’re Looking For

We’re looking for an experienced and compassionate leader who can bring together people, operations and animal welfare to achieve the best possible outcomes for animals in our care.

You’ll be someone who leads with confidence and empathy, builds strong relationships and enjoys working collaboratively with a broad range of stakeholders. You’re equally comfortable supporting your team on the ground, solving operational challenges and representing RSPCA Queensland within the local community.

You bring a positive, solutions-focused mindset and the ability to navigate a fast-paced environment where priorities can change quickly. Most importantly, you’re passionate about animal welfare and motivated by the opportunity to make a meaningful difference across the Cairns community and wider North Queensland region.

What You’ll Do

In this role, you will:

• Lead the day-to-day operations of the Cairns Animal Care Centre, ensuring high standards of animal welfare, care and customer service.
• Manage site operations including staff rostering, animal movements, inventory management, facility maintenance and operational planning.
• Lead, support and develop a multidisciplinary team of staff and volunteers, creating a positive, collaborative and high-performing culture.
• Work closely with the RSPCA Inspectorate team and other internal departments to support animal welfare outcomes across the region.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with local councils, veterinarians, community organisations, supporters and other key stakeholders.
• Coordinate and participate in community outreach programs, fundraising activities, supporter events, educational visits and corporate engagement opportunities.
• Drive adoption, fostering and community support initiatives that improve outcomes for animals and their owners.
• Identify and implement opportunities to strengthen services, community engagement and local fundraising initiatives.
• Ensure compliance with animal welfare legislation, contractual obligations, workplace health and safety requirements and organisational policies.
• Monitor site performance, maintain accurate records and reporting, and use data to drive continuous improvement and informed decision-making.
• Manage customer concerns and operational challenges professionally, delivering solutions-focused outcomes for all stakeholders.

What You’ll Bring to the Role

• Demonstrated experience leading and developing teams in an operational, animal welfare, veterinary or community-focused environment.
• Strong leadership skills with the ability to motivate, coach and support staff and volunteers.
• Knowledge of animal health, behaviour and welfare, with experience working in animal care, sheltering or related environments highly regarded.
• Proven ability to manage competing priorities, coordinate operations and deliver outcomes in a fast-paced setting.
• Strong stakeholder management skills and the ability to build productive relationships with councils, community groups, supporters and external partners.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with confidence navigating difficult conversations when required.
• Strong organisational, administrative and problem-solving capabilities.
• The ability to remain calm, adaptable and solutions-focused when managing complex situations or changing priorities.
• A genuine passion for animal welfare and alignment with RSPCA Queensland’s vision and values.
• Tertiary qualifications in Business Management or a related field (desirable).
• Current unrestricted driver’s licence.
• Ability to perform physical duties, including manual handling.

Why Join Us?

• Comprehensive Support: Enjoy 8 weeks of paid parental leave, flexible working arrangements, study leave, and even leave for your furry companions. We also provide access to counselling and mental health services.
• Employee Perks: From free on-site parking to exclusive discounts, novated leases, free pet vaccines, and 50% off Royal Canin pet food, we’ve got you covered! You can also adopt a new furry friend with free adoption options.
• Professional Growth: Access expansive learning and development programs to help you elevate your career and skill set.
• Purpose-Driven Impact: Be part of a mission-driven organisation where every task makes a tangible difference to animal welfare.

At RSPCA Qld, we encourage you to grow your skills, expand your responsibilities and explore different career pathways. By enhancing your qualifications and capabilities, you can take advantage of internal opportunities across our many departments – from animal care to operations, outreach, and more.

Interested?

If this sounds like the perfect opportunity for you, apply today!

Successful candidates will be required to undergo a Police Check for the safety and well-being of the community, staff, and animals. A pre-employment medical assessment may also be required.

RSPCA Queensland acknowledges the Australian Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples as the Traditional Custodians of the land. We are an equal opportunity employer committed to a fair and inclusive hiring process, welcoming applicants of all backgrounds, regardless of faith, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or gender identity.