Careers at the HSA

The HSA is a small organisation but from time to time there are vacancies for positions in our technical team or for staff in functions such as communications and administration. Vacancies are advertised on this page of our website.

Current vacancies

Science Communications Officer (maternity cover)

Are you a talented communicator who shares our passion for using scientific evidence to benefit the lives of animals? Can you help us to disseminate knowledge about animal welfare to a wide range of audiences?

UFAW (the Universities Federation for Animal Welfare) and the Humane Slaughter Association (HSA) are two sister charities focused on the promotion of scientific, evidence-based approaches to animal welfare. We fund research, support the animal welfare science community, and advocate for evidence-based improvements to animal welfare worldwide. Communicating animal welfare science to both specialist audiences and the wider public is key to turning knowledge into real-world improvements in animal welfare. We are looking for a Science Communications Officer to cover maternity leave on a temporary 13 month contract. There is a possibility this position could be extended to permanent contract subject to satisfactory performance and availability of funding.

Ideally, you will have a comprehensive scientific knowledge (possibly including a degree or postgraduate qualification in a biological science or veterinary medicine) and be a natural and experienced communicator with a portfolio of science communication work. For less experienced candidates, our scientific staff will be able to support you in communicating complex scientific ideas to our varied audiences.

The Science Communications Officer will work closely with our internal scientific and technical staff as well as the scientists and experts we work with to produce communications using multiple channels including web, e-learning resources, print, social media, video etc. You should also have experience of promoting news-worthy stories to the media through press releases and other routes. Experience of graphic design (using Canva or other tools), infographic production and video editing would be advantageous. Familiarity with social media tools including Hootsuite would also be beneficial.

This position can be office-based or predominantly home-based; however, the postholder will be expected to attend occasional meetings at our offices in Hertfordshire and to undertake travel within the UK and possibly overseas. Because we’re based in the UK the appointee will need to be UK-based and legally entitled to work in the UK. We would also be happy to consider part-time working for the right candidate.

The candidate must be comfortable with the charities’ approach to animal welfare which includes co-operation with industries using animals, including the livestock and slaughter industries. Whilst both charities promote the highest standards of animal welfare, they do not oppose the use of animals per se. The ideal candidate will enjoy working as part of a team but also be confident to take the lead and work unsupervised when necessary.

Please see the attached person specification for more details including what to include in your application.

Please apply via the CharityJob website.

Download the Application Pack

Volunteering with the HSA 

Occasionally there are opportunities for volunteering at the HSA office. If you are interested in volunteering please contact us at info@hsa.org.uk