Join Our Team

Position

Strategic Partnerships Lead

‍

Type

• Full-time
• 24-36 Month Contract (with opportunity to transition roles based on completion of projects)

‍

Hours

• Standard 8 am - 4 pm
• Potential of evenings and weekends (strong flexibility required)
• Will vary from week to week

‍

Location

• 175 Longwood Road South, Hamilton, ON
• Anticipated to spend less than 30% at work station, majority of time spent in the community of Hamilton and Burlington developing partnerships

‍

Compensation

$60,000 - $80,000

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Reports To

Director of Strategy and Revenue

‍

About the HBSPCA

For 138 years, the Hamilton/Burlington SPCA (HBSPCA) has been a cornerstone of animal welfare in our region. As one of only three Humane Canada Accredited animal welfare organizations in Canada, we care for more than 25,000 animals annually and work every day to strengthen the bond between people and animals in our community. Our vision — the Pet-First Campus and Unleash Love Capital Campaign — reflects our commitment to building Canada's first integrated Animal Wellness Hub, and the energy behind it starts with our people. Learn more at hbspca.com.

‍

The Position

The HBSPCA is entering a pivotal phase of growth with the development of a new, state-of-the-art animal care and community facility.

This role is not traditional fundraising.

We are seeking a Strategic Partnership Lead to build and steward meaningful, long-term partnerships that support both the capital development of the new facility and its ongoing operations and community impact.

This is an opportunity to shape how organizations, brands, and community partners show up in a space dedicated to animal welfare, education, and connection.

HBSPCA is seeking a Strategic Partnerships Lead - a relationship-builder, problem-solver, strategic thinker, and closer who is passionate about connecting purpose with opportunity. This role is not traditional fundraising. It’s about creating solutions-based partnerships that drive meaningful investment (typically $100K+) in HBSPCA’s capital and community priorities.

The ideal candidate is entrepreneurial, creative, and confident, comfortable navigating high-level discussions, structuring mutually beneficial partnerships, and creating and stewarding long-term relationships from introduction to signed agreement.

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Key Responsibilities

Partnership Development

• Identify and engage aligned corporate, local, and national partners
• Build and manage a qualified pipeline of partnership opportunities
• Develop tailored proposals that connect partner goals with HBSPCA’s mission and programs

Strategic Alignment

• Position the new facility as a platform for impact, visibility, and community engagement
• Collaborate internally to align partnerships with capital campaign priorities and operational needs
• Integrate partners into programs, spaces, and experiences within the new facility

Revenue & Growth

• Secure financial and in-kind contributions supporting both capital (build phase) and GIK (ongoing operations)
• Structure multi-year agreements that ensure sustainable support

Relationship Management

• Steward partner relationships with a high level of integrity and care
• Ensure partners receive meaningful engagement, visibility, and impact reporting
• Identify opportunities to deepen and expand partnerships over time

Collaboration

• Work closely with fundraising, marketing, and leadership teams
• Contribute to partnership strategy, pricing, and offering development (e.g., naming rights, program sponsorships, experiential activations)

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Skills & Qualifications:

• 5+years in business development, partnerships, or relationship-driven sales(nonprofit, agency, or corporate experience welcomed).
• Proven success managing complex deals or partnerships of $100K+.
• Exceptional communication and presentation skills, both written and verbal.
• Strong organization and CRM discipline (Raisers Edge or similar).
• Proficient in tools such as Canva and AI platforms to create compelling partnership materials, presentations, and outreach.
• Strategic mindset with creative problem-solving abilities.
• A self-starter who is comfortable taking initiative, setting priorities, and following through.
• Emotional intelligence and compassion able to collaborate respectfully with partners, staff, volunteers, and donors.
• Access to a reliable vehicle

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Personal Attributes

• Passionate about community impact and animal welfare.
• Curious, innovative, and solutions-focused.
• Confident yet flexible to be able to listen deeply and adapt approaches.
• Empathetic leader who balances results with relationship care.
• Self manager that works autonomously with limited supervision and clear objectives

‍

How To Apply

Interested candidates are invited to submit a resume and cover letter detailing their qualifications and passion for the role to careers@hbspca.com. Please include "Strategic Partnerships Lead" in the subject line.

Please be aware that once you submit your resume or application, your information will be retained for 5 years as per Ministry of Labour Employment requirements 2025. If you are selected for an interview, your information will also be kept on file that you either were interviewed and declined or interviewed and selected. This is also a requirement of the Ministry of Labour to maintain a list of all candidates that applied for the role even if they are not hired. Finally, we do not use AI technology to review, assess and select candidates as of July 1, 2025. Only those selected will be contacted for an interview.

‍

Interview Process

1. Initial Screening Call
2. Take Home Assessment
3. Virtual Interview
4. Final Assessment with CEO & President

‍

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

The HBSPCA is an equal opportunity employer that actively supports diversity, equity, and inclusion. We welcome applications from candidates of all backgrounds and lived experiences. If you require accommodation during any stage of the recruitment process, please contact your interview lead for assistance.

Number of Positions

1

‍

Hours

• 35 Hours a Week
• 12 Weeks

‍

Location

• (In Person) 245 Dartnall Road, Hamilton, ON
• Driving will be required (vehicle provided - must have G license level)

‍

Hourly Rate

$17.60

‍

Reports To

Adoptions Manager

‍

About the Hamilton Burlington SPCA

At the Hamilton/Burlington SPCA (HBSPCA), we are always Pet First. Since 1887, we've advanced the humane treatment of animals through collaboration, education, services, and partnerships. As one of Ontario's most progressive and community-driven animal welfare organizations, our mission is keeping people and pets together—while supporting over one million animal interactions annually. Learn more at www.hbspca.com.‍‍

‍

The Position

The Community Service Worker plays a key role in connecting pets, people, and community through the HBSPCA’s Adoption Department. 

In this role, you will support pet adoptions, animal placements, and community outreach initiatives that strengthen the human-animal bond. You’ll engage directly with potential adopters, provide resources to support pet guardians, and assist with the daily coordination of adoption and foster activities. 

This summer position is ideal for individuals passionate about both people and animals — and interested in gaining valuable experience in community engagement, social services, and animal welfare. 

‍

This Role is Right for You If:

• You’re passionate about helping people and animals stay connected and thrive together. 
• You’re empathetic, approachable, and comfortable speaking with diverse community members. 
• You’re organized, detail-oriented, and eager to learn about animal welfare practices. 
• You thrive in both team settings and independent tasks. 
• You want hands-on experience that combines community service, communication, and animal care. 
• You enjoy working in a fast-paced, people-centred environment where compassion drives your day.

‍

Key Responsibilities

Community Support & Outreach

• Assist the adoption team with pet-family matchmaking and placement coordination. 
• Support potential adopters and caregivers by answering questions, providing resources, and guiding them through the application process. 
• Assist in community engagement and outreach initiatives that promote animal welfare and responsible pet ownership. 
• Support individuals and families experiencing pet-related challenges, such as financial hardship or rehoming needs. 
• Maintain accurate records of client interactions and adoptions. 

Department Objectives

• Help ensure smooth coordination of animal transfers and adoption-day logistics. 
• Prepare adoption kits, educational materials, and follow-up communications. 
• Collaborate with the shelter and medical teams to support animal wellness and readiness for adoption. 
• Provide daily administrative support for adoption programs. 

‍

Qualifications & Requirements

Canada Summer Jobs Eligibility

Applicants must meet the requirements of the Government of Canada’s Canada Summer Jobs Program, which include:

• Being between 15 and 30 years of age at the start date of employment.
• Having a valid Social Insurance Number (SIN).
• Being a Canadian citizen, permanent resident, or person granted refugee status in Canada.

Skills

• Current studies or completed degree/diploma in Social Work, Human Services, Animal Welfare, Communications, or related fields. 
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills; enjoys working with people and animals. 
• Compassionate and understanding toward the diverse needs of pet owners. 
• Organized, responsible, and able to manage multiple priorities. 
• Experience in community service, customer service, or animal care is an asset. 
• Comfortable using computers and digital record-keeping systems. 
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a team setting. 
• A valid G license with a clean driving record for over 2 years 

‍

Why Join the HBSPCA?

When you join the HBSPCA, you’re not just taking on a summer job — you’re becoming part of a compassionate movement that keeps people and pets together.

You’ll Gain:

• Meaningful, hands-on experience in community outreach, adoption services, and animal welfare. 
• The opportunity to make a direct impact in helping people and pets find connection and support. 
• Mentorship from experienced HBSPCA staff in animal services and community relations. 
• Skills that prepare you for a future in social services, animal welfare, or nonprofit work. 
• Pet product and service discounts. 
• A workplace filled with compassion, teamwork, and furry companions. 

‍

How to Apply

Please submit your resume and a brief cover letter outlining your interest in this role, your availability, and how you connect with the HBSPCA mission, in confidence to:

careers@hbspca.com

Please be aware that once you submit your resume or application, your information will be retained for 5 years as per Ministry of Labour Employment requirements 2025. If you are selected for an interview, your information will also be kept on file that you either were interviewed and declined or interviewed and selected. This is also a requirement of the Ministry of Labour to maintain a list of all candidates that applied for the role even if they are not hired.

Finally, we do not use AI technology to review, assess and select candidates as of July 1, 2025. Only those selected will be contacted for an interview.‍

‍

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

The HBSPCA is an equal opportunity employer that actively supports diversity, equity, and inclusion. We welcome applications from candidates of all backgrounds and lived experiences. If you require accommodation during any stage of the recruitment process, please contact your interview lead for assistance.

We thank all applicants for their interest. Only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

‍

Number of Positions

1

‍

Hours

• 35 Hours a Week
• 12 Weeks
• Monday - Friday 8:00 am - 4:00 pm (weekends as needed)

‍

Location

• (In Person) 245 Dartnall Road, Hamilton, ON

‍

Hourly Rate

$17.60

‍

Reports To

Manager of Foster Onboarding and Animal Placement

‍

About the Hamilton Burlington SPCA

At the Hamilton/Burlington SPCA (HBSPCA), we are always Pet First. Since 1887, we've advanced the humane treatment of animals through collaboration, education, services, and partnerships. As one of Ontario's most progressive and community-driven animal welfare organizations, our mission is keeping people and pets together—while supporting over one million animal interactions annually. Learn more at www.hbspca.com.‍‍

‍

Department Objectives

• Provide daily administrative support for foster programs.
• Help ensure smooth coordination of animal transfers and foster logistics.
• Prepare foster kits, educational materials, and follow-up communications.
• Collaborate with the shelter and medical teams to support animal wellness and readiness for adoption.

‍

The Position

• Support the day-to-day operations of the HBSPCA Foster Program
• Assist with coordinating animal placements into appropriate foster homes
• Engage with prospective and current foster caregivers through email, phone, and in-person communication.
• Provide guidance, resources, and support to foster volunteers and pet guardians.
• Help maintain accurate records of foster placements, supplies, and animal updates.
• Support community outreach initiatives that promote fostering and responsible pet care.
• Assist with matching animals to suitable foster homes based on needs and capacity
• Prepare and distribute foster supplies and resource kits.
• Monitor and follow up on foster placements to ensure animal health and wellbeing.
• Collaborate with team members to support positive outcomes for animals and people.
• Aid in the creating or piloting of any new HBSPCA Foster Department Programs.

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Supporting Departments

• Support the adoptions team by updating them on foster animals’ behaviour to better update their adoption profiles.
• Support the Shelter team by making more kennels available by sending animals to foster homes.
• Support Volunteer Services by helping volunteers as needed.

‍

This Role is Right for You If:

• You’re passionate about helping people and animals stay connected and thrive together.
• You enjoy working in a fast-paced, people-centred environment where compassion drives your day.
• You’re empathetic, approachable, and comfortable speaking with diverse community members.
• You’re organized, detail-oriented, and eager to learn about animal welfare practices.
• You thrive in both team settings and independent tasks.
• You want hands-on experience that combines community service, communication, and animal care

‍

Qualifications & Requirements

Canada Summer Jobs Eligibility

Applicants must meet the requirements of the Government of Canada’s Canada Summer Jobs Program, which include:

• Being between 15 and 30 years of age at the start date of employment.
• Having a valid Social Insurance Number (SIN).
• Being a Canadian citizen, permanent resident, or person granted refugee status in Canada.

Skills

• Current studies or completed degree/diploma in Social Work, Human Services, Animal Welfare, Communications, or related fields.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills; enjoys working with people and animals.
• Compassionate and understanding toward the diverse needs of pet owners.
• Organized, responsible, and able to manage multiple priorities.
• Experience in community service, customer service, or animal care is an asset.
• Comfortable using computers and digital record-keeping systems.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a team setting.
• Have a valid G license and 2+ years driving experiences

‍

Why Join the HBSPCA?

When you join the HBSPCA, you’re not just taking on a summer job — you’re becoming part of a compassionate movement that keeps people and pets together.

You’ll Gain:

• Meaningful, hands-on experience in community outreach, fostering programs, and animal welfare.
• The opportunity to make a direct impact in helping animals and families through the foster journey.
• Mentorship from experienced HBSPCA staff in animal services and community relations.
• Skills that prepare you for a future in social services, animal welfare, or nonprofit work.
• Pet product and service discounts.
• A workplace filled with compassion, teamwork, and furry companions.

‍

How to Apply

Please submit your resume and a brief cover letter outlining your interest in this role, your availability, and how you connect with the HBSPCA mission, in confidence to:

careers@hbspca.com

Please be aware that once you submit your resume or application, your information will be retained for 5 years as per Ministry of Labour Employment requirements 2025. If you are selected for an interview, your information will also be kept on file that you either were interviewed and declined or interviewed and selected. This is also a requirement of the Ministry of Labour to maintain a list of all candidates that applied for the role even if they are not hired.

Finally, we do not use AI technology to review, assess and select candidates as of July 1, 2025. Only those selected will be contacted for an interview.‍

‍

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

The HBSPCA is an equal opportunity employer that actively supports diversity, equity, and inclusion. We welcome applications from candidates of all backgrounds and lived experiences. If you require accommodation during any stage of the recruitment process, please contact your interview lead for assistance.

We thank all applicants for their interest. Only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

‍

Number of Positions

4

‍

Hours

• 35 Hours a Week
• 12 Weeks

‍

Location

• In Person - HBSPCA Headquarters & Community-Based Site
• Hamilton, Burlington & Region

‍

Hourly Rate

$17.60

‍

Reports To

Manager, Community Outreach & Engagement

‍

About the Hamilton Burlington SPCA

At the Hamilton/Burlington SPCA (HBSPCA), we are always Pet First. Since 1887, we've advanced the humane treatment of animals through collaboration, education, services, and partnerships. As one of Ontario's most progressive and community-driven animal welfare organizations, our mission is keeping people and pets together—while supporting over one million animal interactions annually. Learn more at www.hbspca.com.‍‍

‍

The Position

The HBSPCA is expanding its reach across Hamilton and Burlington — bringing more programs, services, and compassion into the community than ever before. As a Community Service Ambassador, you’ll help the HBSPCA deliver essential community programs and build meaningful connections with local residents, volunteers, and partners.

This summer student position is a chance to make a real impact — helping families access pet food and supplies, supporting outreach events, and spreading awareness of HBSPCA programs that keep people and pets healthy, happy, and together.

You’ll be an active part of a growing team that is shaping the future of community service at the HBSPCA. Your role will ensure our programs run smoothly, our outreach efforts reach farther, and our community feels supported and connected to our mission.

‍

This Role is Right for You If:

• You are passionate about people, pets, and your community — you believe that compassion can change lives and want to be part of an organization that proves it every day.
• You are a confident communicator — whether on the phone, in person, or over email, you love connecting with people, answering questions, and sharing stories that inspire involvement.
• You enjoy hands-on community work — you like to be where the action is: helping at local events, coordinating supplies for outreach programs, and greeting visitors at HBSPCA headquarters.
• You are organized, detail-oriented, and tech-friendly — you can manage schedules, update records, and assist with community service tracking and reporting.
• You are creative and collaborative — you’re full of ideas, enjoy working with others, and can adapt quickly when plans change.
• You thrive on purpose-driven work — you take pride in knowing your contributions directly support animals, people, and community well-being.
• You are a team player who values volunteers — you appreciate that volunteers make our mission possible and treat them with respect, gratitude, and support.
• You are energetic, curious, and ready to learn — you’re eager to gain hands-on experience in community engagement, nonprofit operations, and humane education.

‍

Key Responsibilities

Community Engagement & Program Support

• Represent the HBSPCA at community events and public outreach activities.
• Help coordinate logistics for community service programs, including scheduling, setup, and participant registration.
• Assist with phone and email communication to provide program information and answer public inquiries.
• Support volunteer and community teams during outreach and distribution events, ensuring smooth coordination and positive experiences for all participants.
• Gather community feedback and share insights with the Community Outreach team to help grow and improve programs.

Awareness & Education

• Share information about HBSPCA services, volunteer opportunities, and community programs.
• Distribute outreach materials and resources for public education.
• Act as an HBSPCA ambassador, helping build awareness of humane care, kindness, and compassion across Hamilton and Burlington.

Administrative & Reporting Support

• Maintain accurate records of program participation, community engagement activities, and event attendance.
• Support data entry, filing, and other administrative tasks to ensure community service records are current and organized.

‍

Qualifications & Requirements

Canada Summer Jobs Eligibility

Applicants must meet the requirements of the Government of Canada’s Canada Summer Jobs Program, which include:

• Being between 15 and 30 years of age at the start date of employment.
• Having a valid Social Insurance Number (SIN).
• Being a Canadian citizen, permanent resident, or person granted refugee status in Canada.

Skills

• Passion for animals and community impact is essential.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills — you’re comfortable speaking with the public and representing the HBSPCA’s mission.
• Organizational and multitasking ability — you can manage multiple projects and priorities in a busy environment.
• Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook) and open to learning internal data systems.
• Comfortable working both indoors and outdoors, sometimes lifting or moving program supplies up to 30 lbs.
• Reliable transportation to HBSPCA headquarters and community-based event sites.
• Previous experience in customer service, volunteer engagement, or community outreach is considered an asset.

‍

Why Join the HBSPCA?

When you join the HBSPCA, you’re not just taking on a summer job — you’re becoming part of a compassionate movement that keeps people and pets together.

You’ll Gain:

• Hands-on experience in community engagement, communications, and nonprofit program coordination.
• The opportunity to make a visible impact in your community.
• The chance to learn from experienced professionals and grow your career skills in public service and humane care.
• A supportive and purpose-driven workplace that celebrates teamwork, empathy, and kindness.
• Pet product and service discounts.
• A workplace filled with compassion, teamwork, and furry companions.

‍

How to Apply

Please submit your resume and a brief cover letter outlining your interest in this role, your availability, and how you connect with the HBSPCA mission, in confidence to:

careers@hbspca.com

Please be aware that once you submit your resume or application, your information will be retained for 5 years as per Ministry of Labour Employment requirements 2025. If you are selected for an interview, your information will also be kept on file that you either were interviewed and declined or interviewed and selected. This is also a requirement of the Ministry of Labour to maintain a list of all candidates that applied for the role even if they are not hired.

Finally, we do not use AI technology to review, assess and select candidates as of July 1, 2025. Only those selected will be contacted for an interview.‍

‍

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

The HBSPCA is an equal opportunity employer that actively supports diversity, equity, and inclusion. We welcome applications from candidates of all backgrounds and lived experiences. If you require accommodation during any stage of the recruitment process, please contact your interview lead for assistance.

We thank all applicants for their interest. Only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

‍

Number of Positions

4

‍

Hours

• 35 Hours a Week
• 12 Weeks

‍

Location

• In Person - HBSPCA Headquarters & Community-Based Site
• Hamilton, Burlington & Region

‍

Hourly Rate

$17.60

‍

Reports To

Manager, Community Outreach & Engagement

‍

About the Hamilton Burlington SPCA

At the Hamilton/Burlington SPCA (HBSPCA), we are always Pet First. Since 1887, we've advanced the humane treatment of animals through collaboration, education, services, and partnerships. As one of Ontario's most progressive and community-driven animal welfare organizations, our mission is keeping people and pets together—while supporting over one million animal interactions annually. Learn more at www.hbspca.com.‍‍

‍

The Position

The HBSPCA is bringing compassion directly to neighbourhoods across Hamilton and Burlington.

As a Neighbourhood Outreach Ambassador, your work will be on the front lines of community impact — visiting residents door-to-door to deliver pet food, supplies, and information about HBSPCA programs. You’ll play a key role in ensuring that families in need have access to resources, while also spreading awareness about responsible pet care and the importance of the human-animal bond.

This summer student role is perfect for someone who loves hands-on, people-centred work and wants to make a visible difference in the lives of pets and their families.

‍

This Role is Right for You If:

• You are passionate about people, pets, and your community, and want to see your efforts create tangible, neighbourhood-level change.
• You are a confident communicator, comfortable engaging residents in person, answering questions, and sharing resources.
• You enjoy active, hands-on work— walking neighbourhoods, visiting homes, and distributing materials directly to residents.
• You are organized and detail-oriented, able to track outreach activity, manage schedules, and report results.
• You are creative, flexible, and collaborative, working effectively with volunteers, staff, and community partners.
• You thrive on purpose-driven work, knowing your efforts directly help pets and people in the community.
• You are energetic, approachable, and eager to learn about community outreach and animal welfare programs.

‍

Key Responsibilities

Door-to-Door Outreach & Community Engagement

• Deliver pet food, supplies, and educational materials directly to households in targeted neighbourhoods.
• Serve as a visible, approachable HBSPCA ambassador, building trust and connections with community members.
• Gather feedback from residents and report insights to help improve HBSPCA programs.
• Support volunteer and staff teams during outreach events, ensuring smooth operations and positive experiences

Program Support & Awareness

• Provide information about HBSPCA services, volunteer opportunities, and community programs.
• Educate families about responsible pet care and the benefits of the human-animal bond.
• Support the coordination and logistics of community events, including setup, registration, and material distribution.

Administrative & Reporting Support

• Maintain accurate records of household visits, program participation, and outreach activities.
• Assist with data entry, filing, and tracking to ensure community service records are organized and up to date.

‍

Qualifications & Requirements

Canada Summer Jobs Eligibility

Applicants must meet the requirements of the Government of Canada’s Canada Summer Jobs Program, which include:

• Being between 15 and 30 years of age at the start date of employment.
• Having a valid Social Insurance Number (SIN).
• Being a Canadian citizen, permanent resident, or person granted refugee status in Canada.

Skills

• Passion for animals, people, and creating direct community impact.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills; confident speaking with residents.
• Ability to manage multiple tasks and maintain accurate outreach records.
• Comfortable using Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook)and internal tracking systems.
• Able to work outdoors for extended periods and lift/move program supplies up to 30 lbs.
• Reliable transportation to HBSPCA headquarters and community sites.
• Previous experience in customer service, volunteer engagement, or outreach is an asset.

‍

Why Join the HBSPCA?

When you join the HBSPCA, you’re not just taking on a summer job — you’re becoming part of a compassionate movement that keeps people andpets together.

You’ll Gain:

• Hands-on experience in door-to-door community engagement, outreach, and program coordination.
• The satisfaction of making a visible difference in the lives of pets and families.
• Mentorship from experienced HBSPCA staff in community service and animal welfare.
• A supportive, purpose-driven environment where compassion and teamwork come first.
• Pet product and service discounts.
• A workplace filled with compassion, teamwork, and furry companions

‍

How to Apply

Please submit your resume and a brief cover letter outlining your interest in this role, your availability, and how you connect with the HBSPCA mission, in confidence to:

careers@hbspca.com

Please be aware that once you submit your resume or application, your information will be retained for 5 years as per Ministry of Labour Employment requirements 2025. If you are selected for an interview, your information will also be kept on file that you either were interviewed and declined or interviewed and selected. This is also a requirement of the Ministry of Labour to maintain a list of all candidates that applied for the role even if they are not hired.

Finally, we do not use AI technology to review, assess and select candidates as of July 1, 2025. Only those selected will be contacted for an interview.‍

‍

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

The HBSPCA is an equal opportunity employer that actively supports diversity, equity, and inclusion. We welcome applications from candidates of all backgrounds and lived experiences. If you require accommodation during any stage of the recruitment process, please contact your interview lead for assistance.

We thank all applicants for their interest. Only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

‍

Number of Positions

2

‍

Hours

• 35 Hours a Week
• 12 Weeks

‍

Location

245 Dartnall Road, Hamilton, ON (In-Person)

‍

Hourly Rate

$17.60

‍

Reports To

General Manager, Animal Shelter Operations

‍

About the Hamilton Burlington SPCA

At the Hamilton/Burlington SPCA (HBSPCA), we are always Pet First. Since 1887, we've advanced the humane treatment of animals through collaboration, education, services, and partnerships. As one of Ontario's most progressive and community-driven animal welfare organizations, our mission is keeping people and pets together—while supporting over one million animal interactions annually. Learn more at www.hbspca.com.‍‍

‍

The Position

The Animal Care Worker plays an essential role in ensuring the comfort, health, and happiness of animals in our care. This hands-on position supports daily shelter operations by providing food, water,enrichment, and a clean, safe environment for every animal.

You’ll be part of a dedicated team working to give animals the best possible start on their journey to adoption. From cleaning and feeding to providing exercise and enrichment, you’ll help ensure each animal receives the care, compassion, and attention they deserve.

This summer student role is ideal for individuals looking to gain practical experience in animal care, shelter operations, and animal welfare — while making a tangible difference for pets in need.‍

‍

This Role is Right for You If:

• You are passionate about the well-being of animals and believe every pet deserves care, kindness, and respect.
• You enjoy hands-on work and don’t mind getting a little dirty if it means making an animal’s day better.
• You’re compassionate, patient, and attentive — able to read animal behaviour and respond calmly to their needs.
• You work well in a team and can follow instructions with care and accuracy.
• You’re reliable, hardworking, and motivated by purpose-driven work.
• You want to gain valuable experience in animal care and contribute to a compassionate community organization.‍

‍

Key Responsibilities

Animal Care & Welfare

• Provide daily care to animals including feeding, watering, and monitoring their well-being.
• Clean, sanitize, and maintain kennels, cages, and common areas to ensure a safe and healthy environment.
• Exercise and enrich animals through walking, playtime, and social interaction.
• Observe animals for signs of illness, injury, or behavioural changes and promptly report concerns to supervisors.
• Administer medications and basic treatments under direction from veterinarians or senior staff.
• Support grooming, handling, and socialization to help prepare animals for adoption.

Shelter Operations Support

• Maintain cleanliness and organization of shelter spaces, including laundry, dishes, and supply restocking.
• Record and update daily care logs, feeding schedules, and health notes for each animal.
• Assist staff during adoption activities, animal intake, or transfers as needed.
• Provide kind, informative interactions with visitors, adopters, and volunteers.

‍

Qualifications & Requirements

Canada Summer Jobs Eligibility

Applicants must meet the requirements of the Government of Canada’s Canada Summer Jobs Program, which include:

• Being between 15 and 30 years of age at the start date of employment.
• Having a valid Social Insurance Number (SIN).
• Being a Canadian citizen, permanent resident, or person granted refugee status in Canada.

Skills

• Current studies or completed diploma/degree in Animal Care, Animal Welfare, or a related field preferred.
• Passion for working with animals of all breeds, sizes, and temperaments.
• Excellent teamwork and communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and remain focused in a busy environment.
• Physically able to lift up to 30 lbs, bend, stand, and move for extended periods.
• Commitment to maintaining high standards of cleanliness and safety.
• Previous experience in a shelter, kennel, or animal care environment is an asset.

‍

Why Join the HBSPCA?

When you join the HBSPCA, you’re not just taking on a summer job — you’re becoming part of a compassionate movement that keeps people andpets together.

You’ll Gain:

• Hands-on experience in animal care, shelter operations, and welfare practices.
• The opportunity to learn from experienced animal care professionals.
• Skills that build your foundation for a future in veterinary or animal welfare careers.
• A supportive, mission-driven environment where compassion comes first.
• Pet product and service discounts.
• A workplace filled with compassion, teamwork, and furry companions.

‍

How to Apply

Please submit your resume and a brief cover letter outlining your interest in this role, your availability, and how you connect with the HBSPCA mission, in confidence to:

careers@hbspca.com

Please be aware that once you submit your resume or application, your information will be retained for 5 years as per Ministry of Labour Employment requirements 2025. If you are selected for an interview, your information will also be kept on file that you either were interviewed and declined or interviewed and selected. This is also a requirement of the Ministry of Labour to maintain a list of all candidates that applied for the role even if they are not hired.

Finally, we do not use AI technology to review, assess and select candidates as of July 1, 2025. Only those selected will be contacted for an interview.‍

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Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

The HBSPCA is an equal opportunity employer that actively supports diversity, equity, and inclusion. We welcome applications from candidates of all backgrounds and lived experiences. If you require accommodation during any stage of the recruitment process, please contact your interview lead for assistance.

We thank all applicants for their interest. Only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

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