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- Tasks: Ensure effective veterinary checks on animal products at Heathrow Airport.
- Company: Join a dedicated team ensuring animal health and safety at a major UK border control.
- Benefits: Enjoy 30 days annual leave, pension scheme, and flexible working hours.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on animal welfare while gaining valuable experience in a dynamic environment.
- Qualifications: No specific qualifications required; passion for animal health is key.
- Other info: Part-time roles available; flexible terms can be negotiated.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
The Official Veterinarian (OV) is responsible for ensuring the effectiveness of official controls at Heathrow Airport Border Control Post (BCP).
Carrying out veterinary checks: The OV must carry out veterinary checks (Documentary checks, Identity checks and/or Physical checks) on Products of Animal Origin, Animal By-products and Germinal products imported into Great Britain from Third countries (EU and non-EU countries). The OV must ensure that sufficient appropriate samples (including samples for microbiological examination, veterinary residues, contaminants, etc) are collected and submitted for laboratory examination under the NMP, including where reinforced checks are in place.
Issue the Common Health Entry Document (CHED): The OV issues CHEDs for all consignments, and notifications of rejections (including rights of appeal) when consignments fail veterinary checks. Ensure rejected consignments are compliantly handled and disposed of. The OV must ensure that rejected consignments are handled and disposed of in accordance with the relevant animal by-product (ABP) enforcement regulations.
Update the Import of Products, Animals, Food and Feed System (IPAFFS) database: The OV must monitor IPAFFS for pre-notifications and messages about consignments scheduled to be handled at the BCP. The OV is responsible for ensuring CHEDs are fully completed on IPAFFS as required.
Carrying out other related duties: as required by the Senior OV.
WORKING HOURS: Full-time position 40 hours per week (that may include weekend work), in accordance with the weekly rota. Weekly rotas may vary from week to week, where working times will be either 8am-4.30pm, 11am-7.30pm or 1.30pm-10pm (these hours already include 0.5-hour break for lunch/dinner). You will be required to work one weekend per month (the weekend hours will be part of the 40 hours per week, so you will have 1 or 2 days off between Monday and Friday when you work a Saturday or/and Sunday).
Annual leave: 30 days paid annual leave (including public/bank holidays). You will be required to work 2 public/bank holidays per year (the remainder of the public/bank holidays not worked will be paid and count as part of your annual leave entitlement). No OOH or on call duties outside your working weekly rota.
Other benefits: Pension scheme available. Contractual sick/injury pay scheme.
NOTE: Part-time positions can be considered (minimum of 24 hours per week, including weekend work). Terms and conditions can be negotiated. Email us senlacassociates@gmail.com for more detail or send your CV via the APPLY button.
Portal Official Veterinarian employer: Senlac Associates
Contact Detail:
Senlac Associates Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Portal Official Veterinarian
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific regulations and procedures related to veterinary checks at border control. Understanding the Common Health Entry Document (CHED) process and the Import of Products, Animals, Food and Feed System (IPAFFS) will give you a significant edge during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with current or former Official Veterinarians to gain insights into the role and its challenges. They can provide valuable information about the day-to-day responsibilities and may even offer tips on how to stand out in your application.
✨Tip Number 3
Stay updated on current issues and trends in animal health and food safety, especially those affecting imports. Being knowledgeable about recent changes in legislation or emerging diseases can demonstrate your commitment and expertise in the field.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare for potential scenario-based questions during the interview. Think about how you would handle specific situations related to veterinary checks and compliance, as this will showcase your problem-solving skills and readiness for the role.
We think you need these skills to ace Portal Official Veterinarian
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure you fully understand the responsibilities of the Portal Official Veterinarian. Familiarise yourself with the specific checks and documentation required, such as the Common Health Entry Document (CHED) and the Import of Products, Animals, Food and Feed System (IPAFFS).
Tailor Your CV: Highlight relevant experience in veterinary checks, handling animal products, and compliance with regulations. Make sure to include any specific qualifications or certifications that relate to the role, as well as your ability to work flexible hours.
Craft a Strong Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your passion for veterinary work and your understanding of the importance of biosecurity at border control. Mention any previous experience that aligns with the job description and how you can contribute to the team.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your CV and cover letter for any spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail, which is crucial for the role of an Official Veterinarian.
How to prepare for a job interview at Senlac Associates
✨Know Your Regulations
Familiarise yourself with the relevant animal by-product enforcement regulations and the Common Health Entry Document (CHED) process. Being able to discuss these topics confidently will show your understanding of the role and its responsibilities.
✨Demonstrate Attention to Detail
As an Official Veterinarian, attention to detail is crucial. Prepare examples from your past experiences where you successfully managed detailed checks or documentation, highlighting your ability to maintain accuracy under pressure.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
Effective communication is key in this role, especially when issuing notifications of rejections or handling compliance issues. Be ready to discuss how you've effectively communicated complex information in previous roles.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that assess your problem-solving skills in real-life situations. Think about potential challenges you might face at the Border Control Post and how you would handle them, demonstrating your critical thinking abilities.
