Foster Community Support Officer

About The Role

As Foster Community Support Officer, you will play an integral role in supporting RSPCA Queensland foster and rehoming services. This role provides a professional, supportive, and compassionate guidance to customers engaging with our foster and rehoming services. Reporting to the Animal Care Manager at the Wacol Animal Care Campus, you will influence and strengthen the foster and rehoming experience of our animals and foster carers.

Key Responsibilities

Program Delivery

• Lead the effective delivery and continuous improvement of foster care programs.
• Ensure KPIs are met to enhance retention, onboarding, and engagement.
• Oversee strategic animal distribution and placement processes.

Community Engagement & Recruitment

• Organise and attend community events to promote foster care and recruit carers.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with foster carers, volunteers, and stakeholders.
• Facilitate support groups and foster a culture of inclusivity and appreciation.

Carer Support & Training

• Provide ongoing guidance, emotional support, and resources to foster carers.
• Conduct regular check-ins and lead onboarding and training initiatives for carers, staff, and volunteers.
• Support regional shelters in developing foster communities.

Animal Welfare & Placement Coordination

• Lead foster animal placements and ensure health records and requirements are maintained.
• Handle animals confidentially and ensure suitability for foster care.
• Verbally and visually assess animals for placement.

Administration & Collaboration

• Maintain accurate records of foster placements and communications.
• Ensure data integrity and timely updates.
• Collaborate closely with internal departments including Shelter, Behaviour, Vet Services, Adoptions, and Inspectorate.
• Provide day-to-day support to team members and report to the Animal Services Manager.

Who We’re Looking For?

You are passionate about delivering great customer service, and have a strong understanding and commitment to animal welfare. You

Experience And Education:

• Minimum 2–3 years in a customer-focused and animal welfare environment.
• Previous experience with adoption and foster programs is highly regarded.

Customer Service

• Exceptional customer service skills and a demonstrated ability to communicate well at all levels;
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills;

Organisational Skills:

• Exceptional time management, multitasking, and problem-solving abilities.
• Proficiency in Word, Excel, and relevant software programs.
• Ability to follow directions coupled with exceptional problem solving skills and the ability to work independently where required.
• Animal Welfare Expertise:
• Knowledge of animal welfare legislation and handling techniques.
• Demonstrated commitment to animal health, care, and welfare and ongoing professional development.
• Attributes:
• Initiative, adaptability to rapid protocol changes, and resilience in emotionally demanding situations.
• Alignment with RSPCA’s mission, vision, and values.

Why Join Us?

Purpose-Driven Impact: Deliver a foster and rehoming program that directly improve animal welfare and provide essential support to foster carers.

Supportive Environment: Join a collaborative team with access to training, professional development, and career growth opportunities.

Perks and Benefits: Flexible working arrangements, on-site parking, staff discounts, and the opportunity to connect with the animals you help.