We are working on behalf of our client in seeking a Specialist Animal Licensing Officer to provide ad-hoc support to the in-house Environmental Health team. This role focuses specifically on the inspection, assessment, and enforcement of animal licensing activities under the Animal Welfare (Licensing of Activities Involving Animals) Regulations 2018, as well as Zoo and Dangerous Wild Animal (DWA) licensing.
Key Responsibilities
* Carry out inspections and reviews of licensed and unlicensed premises, including:
* Kennels, catteries, dog breeding, home boarding/day care
* Pet shops, riding schools, animals for exhibition
* Zoo and Dangerous Wild Animal licences (with authorised veterinary surgeon input)
* Assess and review applications, risk assessments, policies, and procedures for compliance with statutory requirements.
* Issue licences, star ratings, and improvement notices in line with legislative guidance.
* Investigate potential offences including illegal breeding, unlicensed activity, or breaches of licence conditions.
* Support and prepare case files for enforcement action and prosecutions.
* Provide expert advice and guidance to applicants, businesses, elected members, and the public.
* Contribute to out-of-hours or weekend inspections if required.
Essential Requirements
* City & Guilds Level 3 in Animal Licensing (or equivalent recognised qualification).
* Proven experience carrying out animal licensing inspections and enforcement under the 2018 Regulations.
* Demonstrable knowledge of Zoo and DWA licensing requirements.
* Experience preparing case files and supporting prosecutions.
* Strong investigation and interviewing skills (PACE, RIPA desirable).
* Excellent communication, report-writing, and stakeholder engagement skills.
* Ability to work independently and manage ad-hoc caseload effectively