Animal Shelter Officer Office focused - Manukau Shelter

Location: Manukau
Employment Type: Permanent, Full‑Time (40 hours per week)
Compensation: $69,000 to $72,000 per annum plus benefits
Work Schedule: Rotating roster including one weekend day or every second weekend, plus public holiday shifts.

He angitūtanga: The Opportunity

Are you passionate about animals and customer service? We are looking for a dedicated Animal Shelter Officer to join our supportive, high‑achieving team at the Manukau Animal Shelter. This is an office‑focused role where you’ll primarily carry out administrative tasks. You will play a crucial part in ensuring the safety and wellbeing of both animals and the community. With a positive, collaborative team environment, you’ll find this role not only fulfilling but also highly rewarding.

This is an exciting time to join us. Our shelter expansion is nearly complete, and we’re entering a new phase of growth and development. You’ll be part of a team helping shape the next stage of shelter operations and animal care in Auckland.

What You’ll Be Doing

• Managing office‑based tasks in a fast‑paced environment: Your primary responsibilities will include processing paperwork for incoming and outgoing dogs, handling customer enquiries via phone, email, and in person, cash handling, and working closely with our veterinary team to support animal care. You’ll help ensure the shelter operates smoothly by supporting educational initiatives and delivering excellent service to the public. Be prepared for a fast‑paced environment where you’ll need to multitask, adapt quickly to changing priorities, and work efficiently as part of a team.
• Reuniting lost dogs: You’ll play a key role in reuniting lost dogs with their owners by following shelter procedures, using various methods to locate owners, and ensuring animals are safely returned.
• Building relationships: You will foster strong relationships with internal team members and external partners such as veterinarians, rescue groups, and the public, ensuring smooth communication and collaboration across the shelter.
• Compliance and documentation: You’ll ensure the shelter operates in accordance with the Dog Control Act 1996, managing required documentation and ensuring all procedures and regulations are followed.
• Animal care and shelter maintenance: While your focus will be office work, you may occasionally assist in the kennels. This may include general animal care such as feeding, exercise, enrichment activities, and maintaining a clean, safe, and hygienic environment for both animals and staff.

He kōrero mōu: About You
To thrive in this role, you’ll need:

• Strong multitasking abilities, with the capacity to stay organised and efficient in a busy, fast‑paced environment.
• Excellent administrative and customer service skills, with experience handling enquiries via phone, email, and in person.
• Previous experience in an office, call centre, or administrative role (advantageous).
• A compassionate, resilient attitude toward both animals and customers, with the ability to handle sensitive situations professionally.
• Confidence in dealing with difficult or distressed customers, with the ability to remain calm, de‑escalate situations, and provide effective resolutions.
• Strong problem‑solving skills and the ability to think on your feet to ensure smooth service for both customers and animals.
• A proactive mindset, with a willingness to take initiative and contribute ideas to improve processes and team success.
• Strong communication skills, with the ability to interact clearly and empathetically with people from all walks of life.
• Flexibility and adaptability to respond to changing needs and priorities in a dynamic environment.

If you thrive in a team‑driven environment, enjoy variety in your work, and have a passion for animals and exceptional customer service, this is the perfect opportunity for you.

Ngā āhuatanga kei a mātou: What we offer
At Auckland Council, you will join a dynamic, supportive environment where your mahi (work) will directly impact the lives of over 1.7 million Aucklanders. We offer flexible working conditions, a focus on well-being, and a culture of continuous improvement.
 
We are proud to be recognised for our commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion. We are accredited by GenderTick, a signatory of the Pride Pledge. These commitments reflect our ongoing efforts to create a workplace where all staff feel valued, respected, and empowered to thrive.

Together, we can create a Tāmaki Makaurau we can all be proud of.
As part of our organisation, please view a range of our benefits.
 
Me Tono Ināianei!: Apply Now!
 
Salary range $69,000–$72,000 per annum
Applications close: Friday, 19 June 2026
Find a copy of the position description here
 
Notes:
1. We appreciate your interest in this role. If you have applied within the past three months in this role, we will not require you to apply again.
2. If you are a Temp under Agency, please apply via the Auckland Council external website.
3. If you have any support or access requirements, please advise us when submitting your application so we can assist you.

The role is deemed safety-sensitive and will require a pre-employment drug & alcohol test prior to offer.

Auckland Council is an equal opportunity employer. We serve the diverse communities of Tāmaki Makaurau and welcome applications from people of all backgrounds - regardless of gender, ethnicity, age, educational background, or religious beliefs. We also welcome applications from our Rainbow communities as well as disabled and neurodivergent people. We are committed to making our hiring process accessible to everyone. If you require any support or adjustments at any stage of the recruitment process, please let us know.