Animal Handler
Salary not disclosedPosted 12 days ago, closes today
Closes today
About the company
The Biosecurity Authority of Fiji (BAF) is a national authority responsible for protecting Fiji from pests and diseases that could enter through animals, plants, and other biosecurity risks. It operates quarantine facilities, including the Post Entry Quarantine (PEQ) station, where imported animals are managed and monitored.
About the role
This role provides hands-on animal care and kennel operation services at the Post Entry Quarantine (PEQ) facility. The post holder is based at the PEQ station and reports to the Veterinarian (Lab/PEQ/Central). The job involves the safe management, feeding, and care of quarantine animals, along with cleaning, disinfection, and maintenance of kennels and enclosures. The handler works closely with veterinarians, the Station Officer PEQ, and other colleagues to deliver Animal Section services, and may assist with laboratory and field work as needed. The role also involves direct interaction with pet owners and may require after-hours, weekend, or public holiday work.
Key responsibilities
- Provide services for the safe management and care of quarantine animals in BAF quarantine stations
- Feed and exercise animals, and prepare their food
- Properly discard animal beddings and quarantine material through incineration, and dispose of animal waste materials
- Screen and monitor imported animals, and perform flea and tick wash on them
- Clean, sterilize, and disinfect animal kennels and cages, and maintain the kennel compound pest-free and hygienic
- Maintain enclosures, ground layouts, and inventory of cleaning and other supplies
- Facilitate visits by pet owners, including meeting and greeting them
- Assist Veterinary Officers with treatment of imported animals and report any abnormalities to the Biosecurity Officer in charge, SO PEQ, and veterinarian
About the successful candidate
- A Diploma in Animal Health or Animal Husbandry or other agricultural, veterinary, or animal-related field
- Experience with animals or in an animal-related field would be an advantage
- Good coordination, communication, and facilitation skills
- Ability to handle and care for animals in a friendly manner, keeping them calm and happy
- Demonstrated commitment to a flexible approach to work, being a team player, and covering for others during absence
- Must be able and fit to travel locally
- Good verbal and written communication skills, and good customer service skills
- Knowledge of Microsoft Excel, Word, Outlook, and internet search engine usage
You'll apply on Biosecurity Authority of Fiji's website.