Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Investigate animal cruelty cases and collaborate with various agencies.
- Company: Join the Scottish SPCA, Scotland's leading animal welfare charity since 1839.
- Benefits: Enjoy a permanent contract with a competitive salary and flexible working hours.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in animal welfare while working in a supportive team environment.
- Qualifications: Experience with animals and strong customer service skills are essential.
- Other info: This role requires a driving licence and is subject to a Standard Disclosure Scotland check.
The predicted salary is between 29463 - 32900 £ per year.
We are currently looking for an Inspector to join the Special Investigations Unit. If this sounds like a role you would be interested in, please read on for more information.
Hours: 37.5 hours per week within a group rota, between the hours of 7.30am and 11pm, to include weekends. Flexibility with hours is essential.
Salary: starting at £29,463 per annum (FTE).
Contract Type: Permanent.
About the Scottish SPCA: As Scotland’s animal welfare charity, we have been on-hand to protect animals and prevent cruelty since 1839 – that’s over 185 years of creating a better world for all animals. We’ve grown to become a national charity which celebrates the strength of the human-animal bond and enriches the lives of animals and people. We are Scotland’s animal champions.
What does a Special Investigations Unit Inspector do?
A Special Investigations Officer operates as one of a small specialist team covering Scotland and out with Scotland in accordance with standard procedures, investigating serious and protracted issues involving animal welfare. This will involve regular communication and collaboration and joint working internally and with external agencies. Gathering evidence and intelligence. Reporting and preparing criminal cases to the crown and giving evidence at court.
Overview of main duties and responsibilities:
- Fully Investigate Complaints of Animal Cruelty
- Alleviate Suffering and Distress to Injured/Trapped Animals
- Carry Out Routine Visits to Animal Establishments
- Educational Duties – giving education talks as required
- Work in accordance with the Operation Instructions provided and be fully conversant in Animal Welfare legislation
- Develop and maintain a good working relationship with colleagues, the general public, other Society Departments and Branches, and the following agencies:
- Police
- Veterinary Surgeons
- State Veterinary Surgeons
- Procurator Fiscal
- Local Authorities i.e. Animal Health Inspectors, Housing Officers, Dog Wardens
- Coast Guards
What makes a good Special Investigations Unit Inspector?
- Practical experience with livestock, horses, and domestic animals
- Working with the general public
- Previous experience in a customer-focused environment
- A strong interest in and commitment to animal welfare
- Resilient and calm approach
- The ability to handle challenging situations
- Act with professional integrity
- Flexible
- Work well within a team
- Attention to detail
- Full driving licence
- Willingness to work within group shift pattern
This role is subject to a Standard Disclosure Scotland check. We are fortunate that some of our roles attract a high level of interest; therefore, we may have to close roles earlier than advertised. Early application submissions are highly recommended. This also means that we cannot provide individual feedback to unsuccessful candidates due to receiving high levels of applications.
The Scottish Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals is an Equal Opportunities Employer. We recognise that a diverse and inclusive workforce is essential to achieving our core mission. The Scottish Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals is an Equine Welfare Member of the National Equine Welfare Council.
Special Investigations Unit Inspector employer: SCOTTISH SOCIETY FOR THE PREVENTION OF CRUELTY TO ANIMALS
Contact Detail:
SCOTTISH SOCIETY FOR THE PREVENTION OF CRUELTY TO ANIMALS Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Special Investigations Unit Inspector
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with animal welfare legislation and the specific procedures of the Scottish SPCA. Understanding the legal framework and operational guidelines will not only help you in interviews but also demonstrate your commitment to the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the animal welfare sector, including current or former inspectors. Engaging with them can provide valuable insights into the role and may even lead to a referral, which can significantly boost your chances of landing the job.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for situational questions by thinking about how you would handle challenging scenarios related to animal welfare. Being able to articulate your thought process and approach to difficult situations will showcase your problem-solving skills.
✨Tip Number 4
Demonstrate your passion for animal welfare through volunteer work or community involvement. Highlighting any relevant experience can set you apart from other candidates and show that you are genuinely invested in the mission of the Scottish SPCA.
We think you need these skills to ace Special Investigations Unit Inspector
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description thoroughly to understand the responsibilities and requirements of a Special Investigations Unit Inspector. Tailor your application to highlight relevant experience and skills that align with the role.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your CV and cover letter, emphasise any practical experience you have with livestock, horses, and domestic animals. Mention any previous roles in customer-focused environments and how they relate to the duties of this position.
Show Your Commitment to Animal Welfare: Demonstrate your strong interest in animal welfare in your application. Include examples of how you've contributed to animal welfare in the past or any relevant volunteer work that showcases your dedication.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your application for any spelling or grammatical errors. A well-presented application reflects your attention to detail, which is crucial for this role.
How to prepare for a job interview at SCOTTISH SOCIETY FOR THE PREVENTION OF CRUELTY TO ANIMALS
✨Show Your Passion for Animal Welfare
Make sure to express your genuine interest in animal welfare during the interview. Share any relevant experiences or stories that highlight your commitment to protecting animals and preventing cruelty.
✨Demonstrate Your Investigative Skills
Prepare to discuss your previous experience in investigations or similar roles. Be ready to explain how you gather evidence, handle complaints, and work with various agencies, as these skills are crucial for a Special Investigations Unit Inspector.
✨Highlight Your Communication Abilities
Since the role involves regular communication with the public and other agencies, showcase your excellent customer care skills. Provide examples of how you've effectively communicated in challenging situations or resolved conflicts.
✨Be Ready for Scenario Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that assess your ability to handle difficult situations. Think about past experiences where you demonstrated resilience and professionalism, and be prepared to discuss how you would approach similar challenges in this role.
