Groom (3109)

Are you looking for a new opportunity to make a real difference to animals' lives? Do you have a passion for working with Equines? If so, we can't wait to hear from you!

RSPCA Felledge Equine Centre are recruiting a Groom to join the RSPCA team on a full time, permanent basis.

We are one of only two RSPCA specialist equine centres in the UK. With a team of dedicated grooms, we work with a variety of equines who have all suffered from cruelty and neglect.

• Working hours: 35 hours a week on a 2 week rolling rota which include every other weekend & also bank holidays. 
• Transport links are limited therefore, a drivers license would be highly recommended & desired.

Our recruitment journey - key dates for you to note: 

We believe in transparency and a stress-free experience. Here is a quick look at what you can expect.

1. Application

You'll be asked a few targeted questions designed to help us understand your experience, unique skills, and future potential. This is your first chance to stand out!

2. Panel Interview & Site Visit - w/c 27th April

If your application hits the mark, we'll invite you to meet us in person. You'll sit down with the Hiring Manager and our Deputy Manager for a competency based interview and a tour of the site. We'll also be asking some scenario based questions on animal handling and would welcome your thoughts and discussion on the content. This stage is designed for you to:

• Explore the Role: Get a feel for the team culture and the real-world impact you'll be making.
• Demonstrate Your Strengths: Show us how you work in a supportive, relaxed environment.

We work to prepare previously mistreated and neglected equines for adoption. The work can be challenging but immensely rewarding, following the journey of our rescued equines from intake all the way to rehoming. Previous rescue/rehab experience is not essential for this role - what's most important is your confidence around a wide range of equines and your passion for their welfare! 

You can check out more of our work and latest updates on our Facebook page.

Typical tasks include: 

• Monitoring the physical condition and behavior of our equines, conducting health checks (including temperature, pulse, and respiration), and administering treatments or medications as directed.
• Following and adapting bespoke training programs from earning an equine's trust to lunging, long-reining, and schooling.
• Working with unhandled/nervous equines 
• General yard duties 
• Record keeping / completing horse welfare related paperwork
• Maintaining high standards of cleanliness in stables, paddocks and exercise areas. Ensuring the yard is safe, secure, and professional.
• Assisting the veterinary surgeon and farrier during visits and ensuring all equine records are kept accurate and up to date.
• Representing the RSPCA by maintaining great relations with the public and supporting our exciting fundraising events and Open Days.

• In depth knowledge and experience of equine care and husbandry
• Confidence around a wide range of horses and ponies, including equines with complex behavioural issues
• Good literacy skills to complete equine welfare related paperwork
• Excellent team player skills and, above all else, a passion for making a difference to the lives of rescued equines
• Good customer service skills
• Experience of working in the equine industry
• Good level of fitness due to manual workload

Desirable

• BHS level 2 qualification or equivalent
• Driving licence (limited public transport)

Successful candidates for certain RSPCA roles will need to undergo a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check.

Applicants must have the legal right to work in the UK - We are unable to sponsor visas at RSPCA

We want to ensure we do all we can to give you a positive candidate experience through our recruitment. Whilst we do try to give feedback where we can, sometimes due to receiving high levels of applications, this may not always be possible

We are building the future of a diverse Society, and our priority is to support animal welfare by finding people from all backgrounds who are committed  to our mission.  For this reason we actively encourage a wide diversity of applications - in particular from members of minority ethnic groups, and people with disabilities - as these candidates are currently under-represented at the RSPCA. Your transferable skills & lived experiences could make you a valuable addition to our RSPCA Family! 

We're here to support you and encourage you to let us know if you need any adjustments at any stage of the recruitment process. Please feel free to contact us at resourcingteam@rspca.org.uk or 0300 123 0685 so we can ensure the process works for you.