At a Glance
- Tasks: Assist in daily animal care and help develop the Animal Care curriculum.
- Company: Pilton Community College, dedicated to nurturing young minds.
- Benefits: Flexible hours, ongoing training, and a chance to make a difference.
- Other info: Part-time role with weekend shifts; great for balancing studies.
- Why this job: Join a passionate team and inspire students through hands-on animal care.
- Qualifications: Level 2 Animal Care qualification preferred; reliability and teamwork are key.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
Pilton Community College are seeking an Animal Care Technician to assist in the day to day running of the Animal Care specialism; a unique subject to Secondary School Curriculum. As the Animal Care Technician, you will lead in the daily husbandry tasks and, based on your own knowledge and experience, help to further develop this already successful subject.
We are looking for a reliable, punctual, and hardworking individual with ideally a Level 2 (or higher) Animal Care qualification. The animals to be cared for are mostly small companion animals and exotic invertebrates, based within the self-contained department.
Part Time NJC Grade C: £25,989 - £26,403 FTE (This will be paid pro-rata to reflect hours and weeks worked)
Working Pattern: This is a fixed term position working 5 hours per week, 52 weeks per year from July 2026 until 31st August 2027. The working hours can be flexible, to a degree, but are limited to 5 hours per week. Weekend working will be required every week, using some of these hours, on either a Saturday or Sunday. The working pattern will most likely vary from week to week, based on requirements. This post is a fixed term contract for 1 year, as the course may not continue beyond this time.
Why Join Us?
- You will become part of a dedicated team working to ensure every child has the opportunity to thrive.
- A supportive and collaborative working environment.
- Opportunities for ongoing training and professional development.
- The opportunity to make a meaningful difference to young people's lives.
This role requires an enhanced DBS disclosure. Successful applicants will be subject to an online search. The Harbour Schools Partnership require all applicants to be eligible to work in the UK with no restrictions, as we are unable to offer sponsorship/work visas. You will be required to provide proof of Right to Work at interview stage.
Animal Care Technician employer: Devon County Council
Pilton Community College is an excellent employer, offering a supportive and collaborative work environment where you can make a meaningful difference in the lives of young people. With opportunities for ongoing training and professional development, you will be part of a dedicated team focused on nurturing the next generation in North Devon. The flexible working hours and commitment to employee growth make this role particularly rewarding for those passionate about animal care and education.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Animal Care Technician
✨Get Your Hands Dirty in the Community
Nothing beats on-the-ground experience when it comes to agriculture. Volunteer at local farms or join community gardening projects to meet industry folks. They often have inside info on part-time gigs that might not even be advertised yet!
✨Tap Into Agriculture Networks
Join local agricultural societies or online forums specific to your area. These communities are goldmines for part-time opportunities and can connect you with farmers and organisations looking for helping hands.
✨Seasonal Availability Is Key
Make sure you know when the busy seasons are! Many farms ramp up hiring during planting and harvest times. Keep an eye out for those windows and shoot your applications off early through our website to increase your chances.
✨Show Off Your Passion!
Bring your enthusiasm to the table. During interviews or interactions, share any relevant coursework or experiences you’ve had in agriculture. Whether it’s a school project or a home garden, showing that you're keen can set you apart when competing for that part-time role with Devon County Council.
We think you need these skills to ace Animal Care Technician
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Relevant Experience:In your CV, make sure to shine a light on any agriculture-related experience you've got, whether it's from coursework, volunteer work, or hands-on jobs. Don't forget about specific skills like crop management or knowledge of sustainable practices; those are real winners for Devon County Council!
Show Off Your Passion:In your cover letter, let your enthusiasm for agriculture come through! Talk about why you're passionate about working in this field and what makes you excited about the opportunity at Devon County Council. We love hearing personal stories that connect you to the agriculture world!
Tailor Your Application:Avoid the one-size-fits-all approach. Make sure to tailor your CV and cover letter for the part-time role at Devon County Council. This might mean adjusting the wording to reflect the specific tasks and responsibilities mentioned in the job listing, ensuring you clearly fit the bill.
Include Certifications or Courses:If you have any relevant certifications or courses related to agriculture, make sure to include those! Whether it's a short course in sustainable farming or a certification in organic agriculture, these can really boost your application. It shows you're dedicated to the field and continuously learning!
How to prepare for a job interview at Devon County Council
✨Brush Up on Your Technical Knowledge
Given the agriculture field, it's vital we understand farming techniques, equipment, and even pest management strategies. Be ready to discuss specific practices you've encountered or used—perhaps your experience with certain crops or technologies in farming.
✨Showcase Your Practical Experience
Employers want to see that we can apply our knowledge in the field. If you've had hands-on experience—like internships, volunteering on a farm, or even personal projects—talk about them! Share what you learned and how it shaped your understanding of agricultural processes.
✨Flexibility & Commitment—Key for Part-Time Roles
Part-time roles often require a bit of juggling. Be ready to show your willingness to adapt your schedule for peak seasons or specific needs that come up. Discuss your availability openly, and highlight your enthusiasm for being part of the team.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
In agriculture, we might face situations that test our problem-solving skills. Expect questions like how we'd handle a pest outbreak or deal with unpredictable weather. Practise articulating your thought process and solutions, as it shows we can think on our feet.
