Animal Rescue Officer

Overview

As an Animal Rescue Officer (ARO) with the RSPCA, you'll respond to reports of cruelty, neglect, or injury and play a vital role in preventing animal suffering through education, advice, and, where necessary, intervention. If you are motivated by animal welfare and want to make a meaningful difference, a career as an ARO could be perfect for you.

• Respond to reports of cruelty, neglect, or injury and intervene where necessary to protect animals.
• Work independently and travel long distances, including frequent motorway driving and visits to remote rural locations. You will be out on your own at times, but remain connected to a supportive team. The role includes comprehensive training, equipment, and guidance to work safely and confidently.
• Engage with members of the public in emotionally charged situations. Communicate effectively to gather information quickly, de‑escalate heightened emotions using calm, confident influencing skills, and make accountable decisions with or without immediate supervision, with real consequences for animal welfare and public safety.

We recognise the emotional demands of animal rescue work. You will have access to mental health resources, inclusive policies, and ongoing development opportunities to support both your personal resilience and long-term career progression. You will receive comprehensive training and ongoing support throughout the 26‑week programme, with wellbeing and sustainability considered in rota planning.

There are not many careers that allow you to pursue your passion while making a real difference in the world. AROs work a range of shifts between 8am and 9pm, including bank holidays and weekends, and may occasionally need to stay later to complete tasks. Rotas are planned in advance wherever possible.

• Aged 17 or over at application and 18 by the course start date
• Resilience, good judgement, and strong communication skills, with the ability to handle sensitive conversations
• Ability to work independently, with the support of a wider team
• Willingness to work varied shifts between 8am and 9pm, including bank holidays and weekends
• Availability to start on 18th May 2026 and commit to a continuous, intensive 26-week training programme (annual leave cannot be taken during this period)
• Flexibility to travel for training at locations across the country, with occasional overnight stays
• Full manual driving licence, with recent experience and confidence driving long distances (up to 150 miles per day)
• Comfortable with lone working
• Confident swimmer: able to swim 50 metres fully clothed within 2.5 minutes by the point of assessment during training

To be considered, you must live within one of the postcodes specified in the attached document titled "Merseyside & Cheshire - Postcodes". We are not currently considering applications from candidates who wish to relocate. We welcome applications from people with a wide range of backgrounds. You do not need previous animal welfare experience to apply, as many skills can be gained through other careers, caring roles, volunteering, or community-facing work.

For more information on the recruitment and pre-employment checking process, please refer to the attached document: ARO Recruitment and Pre-Employment Process – Advert. We recommend noting the awareness session and assessment/interview dates. Securing animal welfare work is not a 9 to 5 role. AROs work a range of shifts and may need to stay later to complete tasks. Rotas are planned in advance wherever possible, with wellbeing in mind.

If you need support with your application or interview, please contact:  or . We recognise that a diverse and inclusive workforce is essential to achieving our mission and actively welcome applicants from all backgrounds.

Final note: good luck with your application—we look forward to hearing from you.