driver / pet handler

Pet handler / Animal Transport Driver

Location: Sydney, NSW

Employment Type: Full time

About Departure Pets

Departure Pets is Australia's trusted name in domestic and international pet transport, specialising in the safe and compassionate relocation of family pets across Australia, New Zealand, and around the world.

With offices in Melbourne, Sydney, and Brisbane and agents nationwide, we are committed to ensuring every pet's journey is comfortable, stress-free, and handled with the utmost care.

Our team of experienced animal handlers and logistics experts works closely with major airlines such as Qantas, Virgin Australia, Emirates, Qatar Airways, Air New Zealand etc, delivering industry-leading service that prioritises animal welfare and customer satisfaction.

About the Role

As a Pet Handler / Animal Transport Driver, you will be the face of Departure Pets — responsible for the safe, timely, and professional transport of pets between airports, veterinary clinics, boarding facilities, and family homes.

You'll ensure that every pet is cared for with empathy and attention to detail, actively monitoring their wellbeing throughout their journey and reporting any welfare or behavioural concerns to the Operations Team.

This is a hands-on role that includes:

• Transporting pets to and from airports, residences, and veterinary appointments.
• Handling animals with care, compassion, and professionalism at all times.
• Liaising with clients, airlines, and veterinary staff.
• Assisting with health checks, crate cleaning, and preparation.
• Lodging documentation and permits with relevant authorities (e.g., Department of Ag).
• Working flexible shifts, including early mornings, occasional weekend, and occasional late evenings.

What We're Looking For

To succeed in this role, you'll need to demonstrate a genuine love for animals, a strong work ethic, and a professional approach to customer service.

Key Selection Criteria:

• Proven experience in animal handling (domestic pets, boarding, or veterinary care preferred).
• Confident navigating Sydney's famous traffic and streets
• Full Australian driver's licence and an excellent driving record.
• Comfortable driving vans or larger vehicles and navigating city and airport areas.
• Confident with lifting crates (ranging 2–30kg) and managing a variety of animal breeds and species.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work autonomously and manage changing priorities.
• Flexibility to work early mornings, weekends, and public holidays.
• High level of hygiene, attention to detail, and commitment to animal welfare.
• Previous experience in operations, logistics, freight forwarding, or relocation industries is highly regarded.
• Understanding of airline or airport procedures advantageous.

Culture and Benefits

At Departure Pets, we believe in Happy Pets, Happy Customers, Happy People.

We foster a supportive, team-driven environment built on empathy, integrity, trust, respect, and teamwork.

What We Offer:

• On-the-job training and industry-specific development.
• A caring, inclusive, and pet-friendly workplace.
• Opportunities to work with a passionate, animal-loving team.
• The satisfaction of knowing you play a key role in safely reuniting families with their pets worldwide.

Why Join Departure Pets?

We're more than a logistics company — we're an animal welfare organisation built on compassion and precision.

Our low staff turnover reflects our dedication to our people, and we pride ourselves on a culture that rewards reliability, initiative, and care.

How to Apply

If you're passionate about animals and committed to providing exceptional care, we'd love to hear from you.

Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your experience and availability and we will be in touch

Please note:

• Applicants must have Australian working rights.
• Employment is subject to background checks, including police clearance, reference verification, and proof of identity.