Shelter Receptionist (Sundays)

Location: Little Valley Animal Shelter, Exeter
Hours: 8 hours per week (Sunday only)
Salary: £13.23 per hour

Do you have excellent customer service skills, a calm and professional manner, and a passion for animal welfare?

We are looking for a friendly, organised and enthusiastic Receptionist to join our team at Little Valley Animal Shelter.

As the first point of contact for visitors, adopters, volunteers and members of the public, you will play a vital role in creating a welcoming and supportive experience for everyone who visits or contacts the shelter. From answering enquiries and managing appointments to supporting animal adoptions and maintaining accurate records, no two days are the same.

This role requires someone who can remain calm under pressure, communicate confidently with a wide range of people, and provide a professional front-of-house service in what can sometimes be an emotionally challenging environment.

About Us

Little Valley Animal Shelter is an independent, self-funded branch of the RSPCA, serving animals across Devon for more than 180 years. Based just outside Exeter, we care for and rehabilitate hundreds of animals every year, helping them find loving new homes while promoting animal welfare across the region.

What You’ll Be Doing

• Welcoming visitors and handling enquiries in person, by telephone and email
• Managing appointments and preparing paperwork for animals arriving at and leaving the shelter
• Maintaining accurate records using our Animal Shelter Manager database
• Supporting adoptions, fostering enquiries and general shelter administration
• Assisting with shelter tours and veterinary visits when required
• Serving customers in our reception shop area
• Supporting fundraising events and activities
• Helping maintain a clean, welcoming and professional reception environment

What We’re Looking For

The successful candidate will have:

• Previous customer-facing or front-of-house experience
• Excellent communication and organisational skills
• Strong IT skills, including Microsoft Office
• Outstanding customer service skills
• A positive, flexible and adaptable approach
• The ability to work independently and as part of a team
• A genuine commitment to animal welfare
• A full UK driving licence

Previous experience in a reception, veterinary or animal welfare setting would be advantageous but is not essential.

Benefits

• Generous annual leave entitlement (pro rata)
• NEST pension scheme
• Occupational sick pay (following probation)
• Health Assured wellbeing support
• Discounted Petplan pet insurance
• Free on-site parking
• Uniform provided
• Training and development opportunities

How to Apply

To apply, please send a covering letter explaining why you would be suitable for the role, together with your CV, to:

Hugh Lowson, Chief Executive Officer
Email: hlowson@rspca-littlevalley.org.uk

Closing date: Sunday 28th June 2026

We reserve the right to close this vacancy early if sufficient applications are received.