Senior Scientific Officer

Part-time, FTE $93,783 excl. super (pro-rata $56,323)

Location: Remote

An exciting opportunity exists for a Senior Scientific Officer to join the team at Australia’s most trusted animal welfare charity.

Work for one of Australia’s most recognised and trusted charities
Collaborative, supportive, and purpose-driven team environment
Opens a dynamic & opportunity filled career in animal welfare science & advocacy
Specialisation in animals in sport and recreation including greyhound racing and horse racing highly desirable

About Us

RSPCA Australia is Australia’s leading animal welfare organisation and one of the nation’s most recognised and trusted organisations. We exist for animals to live better lives. With a rich history spanning over more than 150 years, the RSPCA continues to be at the forefront of animal care and protection, advocacy and education, across the nation. RSPCA Australia, the federation’s national body, is a leading source of animal welfare science, and works with governments and industries to progress animal welfare across a range of issues

About the Role

The Senior Scientific Officer has direct responsibility for the provision of high-quality science-based information, advice and comment on animal welfare issues in support of the strategic objectives of RSPCA Australia.

The Senior Scientific Officer implements and applies RSPCA policy/position on animal welfare issues, works independently at times and often collaboratively with the team, initiates or seeks out new areas of work, and seeks opportunities to contribute to existing campaigns/priority areas.

RSPCA Australia are seeking a Senior Scientific Officer to work specifically in the field of the welfare of animals in sport and recreation including greyhound racing and horse racing.

Key Responsibilities

Identifying key areas of influence and strategic directions to advance animal welfare in Australia.
Collaborating with the marketing, campaigns and communication teams to develop and support campaign strategies and communication activities.
Reviewing relevant scientific literature and preparing evidence-based information and advice on key policy areas.
Establishing and maintaining collaborative relationships with government and industry and RSPCA member societies to promote RSPCA Australia policies through the use of science.
Representing RSPCA Australia on relevant national committees and working groups involved in the setting of animal welfare legislation, strategies and related plans and documents.
Understanding RSPCA Australia policy/position and applying negotiation skills as required in order to advance animal welfare in key policy areas.
Updating and developing RSPCA policy and position papers, discussion papers, research reports, information sheets and Knowledgebase articles.
Responding to public, media and other enquiries.
Representing RSPCA Australia in the media and other public forums.
Preparing scientific and technical information and advice for the RSPCA Australia Board and its subcommittees as required.
Preparing submissions to government or external organisations on documents including, but not limited to, national Standards & Guidelines, industry-specific guidelines, and other documents relevant to RSPCA Australia policies.
Contributing to the content of the RSPCA Animal Welfare Science Update.

Responsibilities specific to this role

Assisting RSPCA member Societies in preparing and delivering veterinary and technical advice, campaign advocacy and political engagement.
Reviewing and assessing relevant industry practices in relation to impacts on animal welfare.

As a member of a small team, other duties and activities that contribute to the work of RSPCA Australia will be required from time to time.

About You

We’re looking for someone who has:

Tertiary qualification in veterinary science, animal welfare science, animal behaviour, zoology or a related discipline. Post-graduate qualifications in a relevant discipline are highly desirable.
Demonstrated experience and knowledge of the use of animals in sport and recreation. Knowledge of wildlife animal welfare is desirable but not essential.
Demonstrated experience in a similar role including animal welfare operations and/or animal welfare policy.
Excellent interpersonal skills including demonstrated experience in presenting to a wide range of stakeholders, written communication both scientific and for the lay public.
A proven interest in animal welfare and commitment to the objectives and policies of the RSPCA and alignment to our values and principles.
At least two years’ experience in preparing and undertaking scientific investigation and analysis.
The enthusiasm and confidence to represent the RSPCA publicly at a national level in the media, in presentations, and on working groups.
Well-developed research and analytical skills.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
The ability to communicate effectively to both a scientific and lay audience.
The ability to plan and prioritise a varied workload and meet fixed deadlines.
The ability to work independently and collaboratively and to react quickly to a range of different demands.

Why Join Us?

Join a values-driven team that’s supportive, purpose-led, and passionate.
Highly flexible work options and beneficial salary packaging.
Make a real impact for animals and the community.

Ready to make a difference?

Apply now with your CV and a cover letter outlining why you're the right fit for the role. Applications must be submitted to [email protected] with “Senior Scientific Officer” in the subject line.

If you have specific questions, you believe are not covered by the information above, please send an email to [email protected].

Applications close COB Wednesday 18 February 2026.

While we are unable to contact every applicant, we truly appreciate the time and effort you have taken to apply. Candidates selected for an interview will be contacted directly.

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