23rd January, 2026
HR Officer - Victoria - Wildlife Victoria
12-month fixed term contract | Full-time or 0.8 FTE considered | Abbotsford
- Hands-on operational HR role in a purpose-led not-for-profit organisation
- Support a small workforce and a 24/7 Emergency Response service
- Broad exposure across HR administration, recruitment support, and people operations
The Organisation Wildlife Victoria is a not-for-profit organisation that has provided a statewide Wildlife Emergency Response service since 1989. With approximately 70 staff and more than 1,400 volunteers, Wildlife Victoria responds to over 180,000 calls for assistance each year, supporting more than 100,000 native animals across Victoria.
The organisation works closely with volunteers, carers, veterinarians, and community partners, while also advocating for wildlife welfare and delivering education programs that promote positive coexistence with wildlife.
The Role The HR Officer is a hands-on, operational role supporting Wildlife Victoria's employee workforce. Reporting to the Head of People, this role works closely with leaders across the organisation, including Emergency Response, Operations, and frontline teams.
The role focuses on core HR operational activities spanning the employee lifecycle including recruitment support, award interpretation, and day-to-day people matters. It also provides practical HR support to the Emergency Response team through generalist business partnering, performance coaching, and people-focused initiatives that help staff operate effectively in a fast-paced environment.
This role suits someone who enjoys being close to the detail, supporting managers and staff, and contributing to a positive workplace culture in an organisation that truly makes a difference.
Key Responsibilities - Provide operational HR support across the employee lifecycle, including contracts, onboarding, variations, and general HR administration
- Support recruitment activities, including job advertising, coordination, and onboarding documentation
- Respond to award-related queries and provide advice within a single-award environment
- Assist with workplace relations grievances and performance support processes
- Support training activities and people initiatives as required
- Partner with the Emergency Response team to support staff effectiveness, including coaching around KPIs and initiatives that improve call-handling capacity
- Maintain accurate employee records and support HR reporting, compliance, and continuous improvement
Key Selection Criteria - Tertiary qualification in Human Resources or a related discipline, or equivalent practical experience
- 3-5 years' experience in an operational HR or HR generalist role
- Sound knowledge of HR and recruitment processes,
- Comfortable supporting day-to-day workplace relations and performance matters including award interpretation
- Strong communication and relationship-building skills, with a practical and supportive approach
- Ability to work collaboratively within a small, values-led organisation
- Experience in a not-for-profit, contact centre, or service-based environment will be well regarded
Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Wildlife Victoria & Patterson Recruitment are committed to creating an inclusive and respectful workplace and encourages applications from people of all backgrounds.
How to Apply If you are an experienced HR professional who enjoys hands-on work and wants to contribute to a values-led organisation, please apply with a cover letter and resume.
Patterson Recruitment is proud to partner with Wildlife Victoria.
For a confidential discussion, please contact Gabrielle Patterson on 0416 170 100 at Patterson Recruitment, or email gab@pattersonrecruitment.com.au.
Apply For Job