Kennel Assistant needed in Portsmouth, £14.67ph PAYE - Reference: 5295817 The Kennel Assistant will support the Senior Animal Warden with the day to day running of the stray dog kennel service in Portsmouth and work with partner organisations. They will ensure that the service fulfils the statutory responsibility for the collection of stray dogs throughout the city, and meets the purpose of the kennels. The Kennel Assistant will assist the Senior Animal Warden with investigating complaints relating to dangerous dogs and animal welfare matters and will work within the community to promote responsible dog ownership, which may include attendance of community events. You will be responsible for the collection of strays within Portsmouth and the day to day care of the dogs within the kennels You will ideally need: 1. A recognised Animal Qualification is desirable but not essential 2. A thorough knowledge of canines including behaviour, nutrition, enrichment, handling skills and recognising illness and injuries is essential for this role 3. Experience of working with dogs or in a similar environment is essential 4. A basic knowledge of animal related legislation is desirable but not essential 5. The ability to communicate effectively at all levels from owners and members of the public to councillors, police, partner agencies, charities and staff across Portsmouth City Council 6. A proactive approach and flexibility is required. 7. Be able to engage with customers, in a calm and tactful manner, and challenge behaviours when necessary. 8. Be able to work independently and as part of a team, using your own initiative and judgement in order to find appropriate and effective solutions. 9. The ability to implant microchips into dogs is desirable but if currently untrained willingness to receive training and undertake microchipping is essential. 10. Be enthusiastic about working with volunteers within the kennel environment and attending community events 11. Be comfortable using a variety of IT systems such as Word, Outlook and Excel. You will need to be able to update computerised records and take payments on a daily basis. 12. Be able to make comprehensive notes of any investigations made to assist the Senior Animal Warden in preparing documents which may be used as evidence for enforcement action 13. Be physically able to manage the daily tasks of cleaning out kennels and paddocks, lifting dogs and grooming 14. A full current driving licence is essential. This is a full time role on a temporary contract basis. If you are interested in the role please apply on our website with your CV, alternatively you can email your CV to katie@essentialemploy.co.uk quoting the reference number. Essential Employment is acting as an Employment Business in relation to this vacancy. Essential Employment is an Equal Opportunities Employer. All our roles may be subject to pre-employment checks including references so please be prepared. Due to high volumes of CVs received we are not able to respond to all unsuccessful applications. You will always however hear from us by phone if we are able to take your CV forward to the next stage. You can also follow us at Twitter/Facebook/LinkedIn or via our website www.essentialemploy.co.uk.