Entry level jobs for the Animal sector in st neots

Undercover Investigator (Independent Contractor)

Reports to: Chief Executive
Location: United Kingdom (with international assignments possible)
Contract Type: Independent Contractor

About the Role

As an Undercover Investigator with the Animal Welfare Investigations Project (AWIP), you will work as part of a dedicated and highly skilled investigations team committed to disrupting organised animal cruelty and protecting animals worldwide.

You’ll be tasked with carrying out covert, intelligence-led operations aligned with AWIP’s Strategic Plan — targeting organised, serious, and complex cruelty within industries that use animals for human consumption.

Assignments will vary from short-term deployments to multi-month undercover placements within agricultural or associated sectors. You may also support other high-priority investigations, such as deploying covert surveillance equipment to assist ongoing animal fighting, wildlife crime, or puppy farming cases.

This work demands resilience, adaptability, and absolute discretion. You’ll operate in challenging environments, often under cover, gathering high-quality intelligence and evidence to support enforcement action and criminal prosecutions.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct covert investigations and gather evidential material in line with AWIP’s operational protocols and evidentiary standards.

• Undertake long-term employment-based assignments in industries using animals for human consumption.

• Deploy covert and technical surveillance equipment to support intelligence-led investigations.

• Conduct research to identify investigative targets, networks, and patterns of organised animal crime.

• Produce accurate daily logs, reports, and evidentiary submissions while maintaining strict chain-of-custody procedures.

• Work collaboratively with solicitors, prosecutors, and law enforcement partners to support prosecutions and intelligence-led operations.

• Provide witness statements and give evidence in court when required.

• Ensure the confidentiality of all sensitive material and operational matters.

• Maintain regular communication with the Investigations & Intelligence Team regarding case activity and developments.

• Uphold AWIP’s mission and values in all aspects of your work.

Essential Requirements

• Strong alignment with AWIP’s mission to investigate, disrupt, protect, and rescue animals from organised cruelty.

• Proven ability to work independently, including in isolated or high-pressure environments.

• Confidence operating covert recording equipment and strong photography/videography skills.

• Excellent observation and attention to detail.

• Ability to adapt quickly, make sound judgments under pressure, and take calculated risks when necessary.

• Strong written communication and reporting skills.

• Full UK right to work and valid driving licence.

• Willingness to travel extensively and remain away from home for prolonged periods (typically 2–4 months per assignment; accommodation and expenses covered).

• Professional, discreet, and capable of maintaining operational secrecy at all times.

Desirable

• Prior experience in covert investigations, intelligence gathering, or law enforcement.

• Understanding of animal agriculture, animal fighting, or wildlife crime.

• Familiarity with evidentiary procedures and working with legal teams or enforcement agencies.

The Person

We’re looking for someone audacious, determined, and mission-driven — someone who thrives under pressure, has a meticulous eye for detail, and possesses an unshakeable commitment to protecting animals from harm.

Do you thrive in a leadership position where no two days are the same? Are you passionate about developing your team, driving high standards, and improving the lives of pets and their people? If so, this could be your next step.

At Woodgreen Pets Charity, we’re seeking a confident, compassionate, and solutions-focused Team Leader to join our Cats and Small Pets team. In this vital role, you'll oversee daily operations, support staff and volunteers, and ensure that each pet receives the highest standard of care as they move through their journey from arrival to rehoming.

In this hands-on leadership role you will be the first point of contact for your team where you will supervise daily operations to ensure adherence to relevant policies, procedures, risk, and safety assessments to achieve Woodgreen’s organisational goals. Through a clear understanding of the pet's journey, you will focus on maximising throughput, resolving issues, and collaborating across departments. Your strong problem-solving and coaching skills will support you to do this as you inspire and develop your team.

With;

• Significant experience in effective people management — including conflict resolution, motivating and empowering teams, and developing staff and volunteers
• A proven track record of delivering excellent customer care, ideally in a fast-paced, emotionally sensitive environment
• Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to make sound decisions under pressure
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with a collaborative approach

You will have the chance to truly make a difference in this meaningful role.

Your practical, realistic, empathetic nature will enable you to understand your stakeholders needs, adapt to the circumstances and react appropriately.  You will be able to think clearly under pressure and enjoy balancing your day to day with interesting and specialised projects.

This is a full time permanent opportunity working 37.5 hours per week to include 1 in 4 weekends.  A starting salary of £28,873 per annum is complemented by;

• 36 days annual leave per year (inclusive of bank holidays) rising by 1 day each year to 40 days after five years
• Up to 8% employer pension contributions
• Support towards healthcare costs (cashplan)
• Free access to Headspace
• Life assurance (4x salary)
• 25% discount in our charity shop

Please note that you will need to have existing Right to Work in the UK to apply for this opportunity as we are unable to provide visa sponsorship.

Woodgreen is committed to making our recruitment processes accessible to all and, as part of this, we are flexible in the ways we give and receive information. If you would like to apply using a different format, please contact the Recruitment Team and we will do our best to put any reasonable adjustments in place.

Early application is encouraged as this position may close sooner than the stated deadline if a suitable candidate is found.

Woodgreen is committed to safeguarding children and adults at risk and protecting anyone that comes into contact with us from harm. We expect all employees and volunteers to share this commitment.

Are you a policy or public affairs professional looking to make a real difference for companion animals?  It's an exciting time to join Woodgreen, as we expand and strengthen our influence with policymakers, partners and the public through evidence-based campaigns.

We’re looking for a Policy and Public Affairs Officer to play a key role in shaping and delivering Woodgreen’s policy and advocacy work. You’ll help ensure that our evidence, insights, and experiences influence government policy, legislation, and public debate — driving positive change for pets and their owners.

In this role, you’ll monitor political developments, draft compelling policy briefings, consultation responses and parliamentary materials, and engage directly with MPs, officials, and sector partners. You’ll help build strong strategic relationships with decision-makers, represent Woodgreen at meetings and events, and support the development of campaigns that raise awareness of the key issues affecting companion animal welfare.

Working closely with the Senior Campaigns and Policy Lead and the wider Policy and Impact team, you’ll contribute to developing clear, evidence-based positions and provide expertise to strengthen Woodgreen’s external voice and advocacy efforts.

To be successful in this role, you’ll need:

• Strong experience in policy, public affairs, or parliamentary work, ideally within the charity, animal welfare, or public health sectors.

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to produce persuasive briefings and articulate complex issues clearly.
• A good understanding of the UK political system and how to influence it effectively, ideally with an existing network in this space.
• Proven ability to build and maintain relationships with a range of stakeholders, including politicians, NGOs, and partner organisations.
• A proactive approach, with the confidence to work independently and as part of a small, collaborative team.
• A passion for animal welfare and empathy for the challenges faced by pet owners.

In return you can expect a starting salary of up to £37,000 per annum, depending on experience, which will be complemented by;

• 36 days annual leave per year (inclusive of bank holidays) rising by 1 day each year to a maximum of 40 days after five years
• Up to 8% employer pension contributions
• Support towards healthcare costs (cashplan)
• Employee wellbeing package to include free access to Headspace
• Life assurance (4x salary)
• Enhanced parental leave (subject to qualifying period)
• Benefits hub – exclusive discounts on popular brands
• 25% discount in our charity shops

This is a full time, permanent, hybrid position with the expectation that the successful applicant will work approximately 1 - 2 days a month from our Godmanchester site.

To apply for this position please submit a copy of your CV and a Covering Letter outlining why you feel you would be the best candidate for this role. We look forward to receiving your application!

Please note that you will need to have existing Right to Work in the UK to apply for this opportunity as we are unable to provide visa sponsorship.

Woodgreen is committed to making our recruitment processes accessible to all and, as part of this, we are flexible in the ways we give and receive information. If you would like to apply using a different format, please contact the Recruitment Team and we will do our best to put any reasonable adjustments in place.

Early application is encouraged as this position may close sooner than the stated deadline if a suitable candidate is found.

Woodgreen is committed to safeguarding children and adults at risk and protecting anyone that comes into contact with us from harm. We expect all employees and volunteers to share this commitment.

Are you a commercially and risk-aware finance professional with a strong analytical mindset and a desire to make a real impact using your skills in financial management, planning and analysis? Do you want to use and develop your knowledge and skills to support the delivery of vital services to pets at a national scale by influencing operational and strategic decision-making at a senior level?

We’re looking for two, mutually-supporting, Finance Business Partners to join our Finance team at Woodgreen, where their insight and initiative will help shape the future of our charity in these newly created positions.

Our successful candidates will individually and collectively contribute to the effective financial management of Woodgreen Pets Charity and its trading subsidiary, Wood Green Enterprises Limited (“WGEL”).  They will work closely with the Executive Leadership Team and senior leaders to provide expert financial guidance, insight, challenge, and assurance across a wide range of financial management, planning and analysis activities.

Reporting directly to the Head of Finance, but working independently within the charity and often with minimal supervision, you will be confident using your own initiative to identify opportunities, risks, and solutions.  You will provide actionable insights for budget holders, whilst maintaining rigorous attention to the provision of accurate and timely financial reporting, compliance with relevant policies and procedures, and robust audit-ready record keeping.  You will:

• Build trust with decision makers and budget holders so that Finance Business Partner analysis, advice and guidance is actively sought and adds value in generating desired business outcomes.
• Provide insightful financial analysis, promoting commercial and risk awareness to inform decision making, providing constructive challenge and ensuring that financial governance, control and alignment to Woodgreen’s strategic plans is maintained.
• Be highly visible and engage early in supporting projects and leading them where required.  This will include the development of the financial aspects of business cases, particularly the financial aspects which ensure that business cases are of a consistent high quality and are robust and accurate.

The two roles will be equivalent, offering similar opportunities and challenges, but will be responsible for different areas of the charity’s work.  One role will partner with budget holders in the Income and Engagement Directorate, which includes responsibilities for regular audits of Woodgreen’s retail estate and may involve some regional travel.  The second role will partner with budget holders in the Pet and Corporate Services directorates, plus the CEO as the lead director for WGEL.

If you have:

• a detailed understanding of Microsoft Excel, including pivot tables, VLOOKUPs/XLOOKUPs, IF statements, and other advanced functions;
• the ability to manage and interpret large volumes of data and understand complex interdependencies;
• strong influencing, communication and negotiating skills;
• a strategic mindset;
• are emotionally intelligent, can see the bigger picture, and consider the human impact behind the numbers;
• have an awareness of the current financial and economic environment affecting the charity sector.

And are a qualified member of CIMA or a CCAB, or qualified by substantial experience in an equivalent Finance Business Partner role with demonstrable evidence of ongoing relevant Continuous Professional Development.

We would love to hear from you!

These are full time, permanent, hybrid positions with the expectation that the successful applicants will work approximately 1 day a week from our Godmanchester site.  As our Finance Business Partner, Income and Engagement will also be required to travel to our retail shops approximately 1 – 2 times a month a full driving licence will be essential for this role.

In addition to a starting salary of £45,511 - £55,625 per annum, depending on experience, you will receive;

• 36 days annual leave (inclusive of bank holidays) rising by 1 day each year to 40 days after five years
• Up to 8% employer pension contributions
• Support towards healthcare costs (cashplan)
• Free access to Headspace
• Life assurance (4x salary)
• Benefits hub – exclusive discounts on popular brands
• 25% discount in our charity shops

Please note that you will need to have existing Right to Work in the UK to apply for these opportunities as we are unable to provide visa sponsorship.

These roles are subject to a range of pre-employment checks to include a basic DBS check.

Woodgreen is committed to making our recruitment processes accessible to all and, as part of this, we are flexible in the ways we give and receive information. If you would like to apply using a different format, please contact the Recruitment Team and we will do our best to put any reasonable adjustments in place.

Early application is encouraged as this position may close sooner than the stated deadline if a suitable candidate is found.

Woodgreen is committed to safeguarding children and adults at risk and protecting anyone that comes into contact with us from harm. We expect all employees and volunteers to share this commitment.

Are you looking for an exciting new challenge? Are you passionate about enhancing the rehomability and rehoming outcomes for dogs in our care?  If so join our Dogs team as Intake and Rehoming Specialist on a 6 month Fixed Term Contract.

Acting as a subject matter expert overseeing and readying the successful preparation of dogs, on and offsite, for new homes, our Intake and Rehoming Specialist, Dogs will provide skilled guidance, mentor staff and will contribute to decisions regarding animal welfare and rehoming outcomes.

They will deliver high standards of care, welfare and behaviour support and will develop and implement rehoming strategies for each dog, considering their individual needs and characteristics to swiftly prepare them for appropriate homes.  They will;

• Oversee a designated caseload of dogs both on and offsite, ensuring they receive appropriate care and support from those involved in providing their day-to-day care.
• Provide skilled health and behaviour support to address any challenges and enhance adoptability.
• Conduct thorough welfare assessments to determine suitability for rehoming and identify any necessary interventions.
• Provide regular support and communication to those looking after pets offsite, ensuring they have what they need for optimal health and behaviour outcomes.

This role requires an individual to be approachable and have the desire and ability to motivate, inspire and develop others, showing strong communication skills with a positive outlook. They will also act as a role model, imparting the values and ethos of the charity and will assist in developing staff skills and knowledge to improve their effectiveness in their roles.

Our successful applicant will have significant experience of working in a dog care and welfare environment, ideally in a rehoming centre context.  As our Intake and Rehoming Specialist, you will be required to maintain accurate records and data and ensure compliance with all relevant health and safety regulations and standards an understanding of Microsoft Office is required.

This is a full time 6 month fixed term opportunity working 37.5 hours per week to include 1 in 3 weekends.  The starting salary for this position is £26,841 pro rata per annum, depending on experience.  This is complemented by;

• 36 days annual leave per year (inclusive of bank holidays) rising by 1 day each year to 40 days after five years
• Up to 8% employer pension contributions
• Support towards healthcare costs (cashplan)
• Free access to Headspace
• Life assurance (4x salary)
• 25% discount in our charity shop

To apply please submit a copy of your CV and a Covering Letter outlining why you feel you would be the best candidate for this position. We look forward to receiving your application!

Please note that you will need to have existing Right to Work in the UK to apply for this opportunity as we are unable to provide visa sponsorship.

Woodgreen is committed to making our recruitment processes accessible to all and, as part of this, we are flexible in the ways we give and receive information. If you would like to apply using a different format, please contact the Recruitment Team and we will do our best to put any reasonable adjustments in place.

Early application is encouraged as this position may close sooner than the stated deadline if a suitable candidate is found.

Woodgreen is committed to safeguarding children and adults at risk and protecting anyone that comes into contact with us from harm. We expect all employees and volunteers to share this commitment.

Do you want to help create a better world for animals? Are you a creative communicator with a flair for storytelling and a passion for protecting animals from cruelty?

Join us at the Animal Welfare Investigations Project (AWIP), a not-for-profit organisation that investigates and disrupts organised animal cruelty worldwide, from dogfighting and puppy farming to wildlife trafficking and the dog-meat trade. Our work brings offenders to justice and builds a global movement to end suffering, powered by digital storytelling and public support.

We’re now looking for a Marketing Executive (Social Media) to join our fast-paced Marketing & Communications Team. This role will shape how millions see our mission — driving engagement, income, and supporter growth through bold, creative campaigns.

�� About the Role

Reporting to the CEO and working closely with our Digital Marketing Officer and Gifts in Wills Officer, you will:

• Develop and deliver a data-driven social media strategy that fuels measurable fundraising growth.

• Use ManyChat to grow a permission-based Messenger community and launch engaging campaigns that drive both immediate and sustained fundraising results.

  Plan, launch, and optimise virtual fundraising challenges (like Run for the Dogs or Step Up for Wildlife) — turning clicks into community and compassion into cash.

• Create powerful storytelling content across Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, LinkedIn, and X — designed to move people from awareness to action.

• Manage and optimise paid social advertising to grow AWIP’s supporter base and recurring donor network.

• Engage directly with our followers — responding to messages and comments with empathy, professionalism, and urgency.

• Work alongside our investigations team to flag and report potential cruelty cases seen on social media, gather evidence from witnesses, and receive OSINT (open-source intelligence) training to support real-world investigations.

• Capture and produce behind-the-scenes content from field operations and events, showcasing AWIP’s lifesaving work.

• Represent AWIP at digital fundraising and social media conferences, contributing to growing our thought leadership profile in digital engagement.

�� About You

You’re a performance-driven, strategic, and creative thinker who thrives in a fast-moving environment. You understand that social media isn’t just about followers or likes — it’s about measurable impact, mission growth, and movement-building.

Essential:

• Proven experience managing social media for a brand, NGO, or campaign.

• Strong writing, editing, and visual-content skills (Canva, Meta Business Suite, or similar).

• Experience running social-media ads or supporter-acquisition campaigns.

• Passion for animal welfare and investigative storytelling.

• Professional resilience when handling sensitive or distressing material.

Desirable:

• Experience with fundraising, challenge events, or membership marketing.

• Familiarity with ManyChat, MailerLite or similar EPS, FundraiseUp, Tally.so, or Salesforce.

• Willingness to travel nationally or internationally for short assignments and support investigations.

�� Contract Details

• Type: Permanent (initially 22.5 hours/week, with opportunity to expand to full-time)

• Salary: £24,500–£29,000 FTE (depending on experience and performance). Pro-rata for 22.5 hours is £15,750.00.

• Location: Fully flexible within the UK (occasional in-person events). Must be a UK resident.

• Probation: 6 months, including delivery of at least one fundraising challenge.

• Progression: Potential to grow to full-time based on KPI delivery.

❤️ What We Offer

• Fully flexible working arrangements

• Annual salary review and growth-linked progression

• Private healthcare & Employee Assistance Programme

• Pension contributions in line with Living Pension standards

• Fully funded professional development in digital fundraising & social media

• A chance to make a tangible difference, protecting animals and investigating animal cruelty worldwide.

Fundraising Communications Writer

Position Objective:

To produce persuasive, high-volume fundraising copy – including proposals for recurring and prospective major donors – that inspires support for PETA and other PETA entities. This is a fast-paced, varied role for a sharp, adaptable writer who thrives under pressure. You’ll be juggling multiple projects, switching tones with ease, and delivering clean, compelling copy quickly and independently. If you’re a high-output writer who loves spinning multiple plates and getting things done, this role is for you.

Reports to:

Fundraising Communication Manager

Term of employment:

Fixed-term (12 months, with possibility to extend)

Location:

Hybrid in London or remote in mainland UK

Salary:

£30,000 - £32,000

Primary Responsibilities and Duties:

• Write compelling proposals for existing donors and new prospects, tailored to specific interests and relationships
• Draft and revise donor correspondence, including responses to member and prospect inquiries, form letters, acknowledgement letters, and scheduled/ad hoc impact reports
• Develop copy for direct mailings and email appeals, blog pages,  and other fundraising copy to support donor engagement and acquisition
• Liaise with colleagues to gather donor insights, align on strategy, and manage workflow
• Edit and review work from requestors, ensuring clarity, accuracy, and alignment with PETA’s voice
• Manage multiple projects simultaneously and deliver high-quality work under tight deadlines
• Perform any other duties assigned by the supervisor

Qualifications:

• Professional writing experience, ideally in fundraising, journalism, digital platforms, or advocacy
• Experience writing proposals, appeals, acknowledgments, and donor communication highly desirable
• Proven ability to write quickly, clearly, and persuasively for diverse audiences
• Experience using Asana, Teams, Outlook, SharePoint, and Microsoft Office
• Strong command of English grammar
• Thorough knowledge of animal liberation issues and PETA entity campaigns
• Excellent organisational skills, meticulous attention to detail, and knack for applying feedback quickly
• Ability to manage competing priorities and meet rush deadlines without compromising quality
• Professional, collaborative approach to working with colleagues and donors
• Demonstrated initiative and follow-through
• Support for PETA’s philosophy and commitment to the organisation’s objectives
• Adherence to a vegan lifestyle strongly preferred