Project Underdog Rescue is a small but mighty animal welfare organisation based in Coburg, VIC. Some people say we are different to your average animal rescue but we see being 'different' is a strength.

We are of the belief that every life is precious, and every animal is unique and special in their own way. Many of the animals we rescue have complex medical and/or behavioural challenges, often requiring extensive intervention and resources. We take on one animal (or family of animals) at a time, ensuring we can give them individualised, gold standard care. We are pragmatic and won't take on more than we can adequately handle - quality not quantity. We recognise that animals are sentient beings and as such we are committed to a 'force free' approach when it comes to their care. We do not have a shelter, instead all animals are placed into appropriately suited foster homes throughout Melbourne where they have the best chance

Case Managers work within the Animal Rescue Program (‘ARP’)  team and under the guidance of the ARP leader. Cat case managers are responsible for managing cases from beginning (rescue) through to end (adoption). They play an integral role in rescuing, rehabilitating and successfully rehoming cats in our foster program.

Key Responsibilities

• Work directly with the Animal Management Team, PUR veterinarians, and behaviourists to determine appropriate rehabilitation or maintenance of foster animals;
• Regularly communicate with cat foster carers to ensure they are supported and informed;
• Evaluate animal’s personality and provide recommendations for the ideal permanent home environment;
• Prepare adoption profiles;
• Assist foster carers and volunteers to obtain high quality imagery to help get animals adopted, fostered and to share their stories and the impact of our work;
• Screen, interview and recruit potential foster carers and adopters;
• Facilitate adoptions of foster animals by matching foster animals with potential adopters;
• Maintain database of potential adopters and the type of animal they are looking for;
• Provide foster carers with all the required supplies and equipment to care for fostered animals and keep a current record of supplies provided;
• Undertake regular routine foster care animal checks;
• Coordinate the transfer of animals and supplies - utilising our volunteer network;
• Provide ongoing support to the foster carers, ensuring policies and procedures are adhered to;
• Manage and monitor an email account, ensuring emails are responded to within 24 hours;
• Monitor the Team PUR Facebook page ensuring foster care content is appropriate and questions are answered appropriately within 24 hours;
• Maintain medical and behavioural records of animals in the foster care program; monitor the progress of animals while in foster and ensures compliance with PUR program policies and procedures;
• Maintain accurate and up to date records, utilising our existing software systems;

Key Skills

• Calm, compassionate, professional demeanour
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Exceptional attention to detail
• Responsible, organised, self motivated and efficient
• Good computer skills - specifically with Google Suite
• Basic understanding in cat behaviour and commitment to low stress/force free handling and behaviour techniques

Experience/Qualifications

• Cert II (or higher) qualification in Animal Studies desirable
• At least 6 months experience working or volunteering with cats

Requirements

• Have a road worthy vehicle and current drivers licence
• Have a current police check (we can assist with this)
• Must be willing and able to drive to foster homes across Melbourne to facilitate meet and greets (average of 2 meet and greets per month - more during kitten season)

To Apply Please submit a short cover letter or email with your resume outlining how your skills and experience are a great match for this role and Project Underdog Rescue

Please note this is a voluntary position and is therefore not paid.