We have a rare and exciting opportunity for the right person to join Havant Borough Council as an Animal Welfare Officer. Based in our modern Plaza building in Havant, with easy access to transport links and local shops, we offer a flexible working environment with attendance in the office combined with some remote working dependent on the requirements of the service.Responsibilities include exercising the Council’s statutory functions in relation to animal activities licensing, dangerous wild animals, zoos, primates, stray dogs and reports of aggressive dogs. The role involves working directly with residents, businesses and partner organisations, providing advice, carrying out inspections, and ensuring compliance with relevant legislation. The salary and job title for this post will be dependent on the successful candidates’ experience and qualifications. Level 1 Animal Welfare Officer (Grade E) Level 2 Animal Welfare Officer (Grade F)Level 3 Senior Animal Welfare Officer (Grade G) The successful candidate willHold a full, clean driving licence, andBe able to work unsociable hours, if necessary You will demonstrate a thorough knowledge of animal welfare standards, dog behaviour and temperament, and relevant legislation relating to microchipping, dangerous dogs and animal licensing. You will help to review and develop local policies and procedures in relation to animal welfare and licensing functions, ensuring that processes are efficient and consistent with legislative requirements and the Council’s strategy. You will support the Licensing & Animal Welfare Team Leader and deputise for them from time to time, within their specific area of expertise.Why Choose Us?We are a dynamic service with a fresh and optimistic approach to meeting challenges and opportunities, and are committed to developing our people through training, qualifications and support to offer a varied experience.We recognise the importance of a good balance between work and home life, so we offer a generous annual leave allowance and flexible, family friendly working policies (dependent on service need). In return for your hard work and contribution, we can offer you:A competitive salarySupport for your continued professional developmentFree parkingMembership of the Local Government Pension SchemeFlexi time scheme Time Back for Exercise - staff who do suitable activity such as a morning gym session, lunchtime walking, swim etc. can claim back 30 minutes of working time once a week subject to line manager approval Discounted health plansDiscounted leisure membershipsEmployee recognition schemesTake a look at our website for the full range of benefits and support we offer our staff https://www.havant.gov.uk/jobs-and-careersIf you would like to discuss the role informally, please contact Briony Veness, Licensing & Animal Welfare Team Leader on 02392 446602 or via briony.veness@havant.gov.uk To ApplyIf you’re a team player that can operate on their own initiative, have excellent interpersonal skills, an enthusiasm for learning and the aptitude to deliver an outstanding service, then you are the kind of person we want to hear from.Please click apply and complete the short application process (3-4) minutes.  Please ensure you attach your CV and a supporting statement, when completing your application on our recruitment platform Hireful – www.havant.gov.uk/jobs-us-apply-now. We will not be able to progress your application further unless you provide a supporting statement detailing how you meet the essential and desirable criteria in the role profile.Closing date for receipt of applications is midnight on 30 April 2026.We reserve the right to close this vacancy early if we receive sufficient applications for the role.  We would encourage you to submit your application as early as possible.Due to the current employment climate, we are receiving a high number of applicants for each post and as such may not be able to acknowledge receipt of your application.  You will however be notified as to whether you made the shortlist soon after the closing date.We want our workforce to reflect our diverse local communities, therefore, we encourage and welcome applications from people of all backgrounds and experiences. www.havant.gov.uk/our-organisation/equality-and-diversityThe council is an inclusive employer and appoints on merit. We are a Disability Confident Employer and have a Guaranteed Interview Scheme for Veterans.Our organisation is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults and expects all staff members to share this commitment.Havant Borough Council is a Category 1 Responder under the Civil Contingencies Act 2004. All employees of the Authority will be expected to support any necessary actions required during an emergency response.