Animal Care Manager

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

As the Animal Care Manager based in Townsville, you will oversee the day-to-day operations of the shelter while acting as the key connection point between our local team, volunteers, community stakeholders and the broader RSPCA Queensland network. Balancing operational leadership with community engagement, you will ensure animals receive the best possible outcomes through strong partnerships, efficient processes and collaborative ways of working.

From supporting inspectorate operations and driving adoptions and foster outcomes, to leading community programs and developing local initiatives, this is a varied and rewarding role where no two days are the same. You will also play an important role in shaping the future of animal welfare services in North Queensland by identifying opportunities to grow our impact across the region.

If you’re someone who loves variety, enjoys rolling up your sleeves and thrives in a role where leadership, operations, community engagement and animal welfare intersect, this could be the perfect opportunity for you.

What We’re Looking For

We’re looking for a hands-on and relationship-focused leader who enjoys bringing people together to achieve meaningful outcomes. You’ll be someone who thrives in a dynamic environment, can confidently juggle competing priorities and approaches challenges with optimism, resilience and a solutions-focused mindset. You build trust quickly, communicate effectively with a diverse range of stakeholders and lead with empathy, accountability and professionalism.

Most importantly, you’ll have a genuine passion for animal welfare and be motivated by the opportunity to make a lasting difference for animals and the communities that support them.

What You’ll Do

In this role, you will:

• Lead the day-to-day operations of the Townsville site, including staff rostering, animal movements, inventory management and site coordination.
• Partner closely with the RSPCA Inspectorate team to support animal movement and welfare requirements across the region.
• Drive positive animal outcomes through adoption, foster and rehoming programs.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with councils, veterinarians, community organisations, supporters and other key stakeholders.
• Coordinate community outreach activities, fundraising events, educational programs and supporter engagement initiatives.
• Support the recruitment, onboarding, development and performance management of employees and volunteers.
• Ensure compliance with relevant legislation, animal welfare requirements, organisational policies and contractual obligations.
• Manage complaints, concerns and escalations in line with organisational procedures.
• Maintain accurate records, reporting and data management practices relating to animal care and site operations.
• Collaborate with internal teams across RSPCA Queensland to ensure the best possible outcomes for animals in care.
• Identify and implement opportunities to grow local programs, funding initiatives and community impact across the Townsville region.
• Promote a safe, inclusive and positive workplace culture aligned with RSPCA Queensland values.

What You’ll Bring to the Role

• Demonstrated leadership experience within an operational, community, animal welfare or customer-focused environment.
• Proven ability to build and maintain strong relationships with a broad range of internal and external stakeholders.
• Experience leading and developing teams, including employees and volunteers.
• Strong organisational skills with experience managing competing priorities, resources and operational workflows.
• Excellent communication, customer service and stakeholder engagement skills.
• Sound problem-solving and decision-making abilities, particularly in fast-paced or changing environments.
• Strong administration and reporting capabilities with confidence using systems and technology.
• An understanding of animal welfare, animal behaviour or animal care environments will be highly regarded.
• A current driver’s licence.
• A genuine passion for animal welfare and alignment with the purpose, vision and values of RSPCA Queensland.
• The ability to undertake physical duties, including manual handling and safely handling loads of up to 10kg.

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, 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.

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.