For the Specialists Team, AAP is looking for a Behavioural Biologist with experience in primate and/or exotic mammal behaviour, behavioural therapy, and animal training. 

Are you a biologist who wants to help us realize our dream? Would you enjoy helping our animals and  being an advisor for rehabilitation and animal behaviour at AAP? Then this is the job for you!

Within the cluster Rescue and Rehabilitation, the Specialists Team is responsible for the quality of the veterinary and behavioural rehabilitation of rescued animals in both Almere (the Netherlands) and Villena (Spain). The team currently consists of four veterinarians, four veterinary technicians, two behavioural biologists, and two behavioural assistants.

The Specialists Team provides advice on behavioural and veterinary related topics and is involved in the rescue, rehabilitation, and outplacement of the animals. The team has an advisory and educational role towards management, the team leaders and animal care staff.

Do these things interest you? What you will do: 

• You will be a part of AAP’s Specialist team, with members in Almere and in Villena. 
• You are directly involved in the behavioural rehabilitation process of the animals.
• You advise the team leaders and animal caretakers on potential therapies and animal training.
• You educate animal caretakers and students regarding behavioural rehabilitation.
• You will write in- and external advisory reports.
• You design and write therapy plans for animals that require rehabilitation, and analyze behavioural observation data.
• You have regular discussions with other specialist team members and the animal care department team leaders.

What we are looking for?

• An affinity with the objectives of AAP.
• Completed Master in Behavioural Biology or related relevant field.
• A minimum of two years work experience.
• Excellent up-to-date knowledge of primate and/or exotic mammal behaviour.
• Experience with behavioural therapy and animal training is a plus.
• Excellent written and spoken English (English Common European Framework of Reference level: C1).
• A candidate that:
  • Has a decisive, confident, open, and honest nature.
  • Has excellent social and communication skills used for cooperation and advice. We appreciate a good sense of humour.
  • Uses objectivity, creativity, and flexibility to reach your goals.
  • Has a conscientious and systematic working practice.
  • Efficiently collects and evaluates information and translates this into professional and practical advice.
  • Strong analytical and organizational skills with the ability to work independently.
  • A solution-orientated attitude.

• An inspiring working environment situated in the green heart of Almere. Within easy reach of the cities Amsterdam and Utrecht.
• A workplace close to the animals we rescue. 
• A position with social value and relevance, within an international company.  
• A professional company that encourages and supports dedication; accessibility; decisiveness and inventiveness.
• A permanent contract (after two temporary one-year contracts) when both parties are happy with the performed work. 
• Your salary will be between € 2133,- and € 2768,- gross per month (based on 24 hours per week) dependent on relevant work experience, with room for growth within the function. 
• In addition to the 8% holiday allowance, a variable year-end bonus of a maximum of 8.33% of your annual gross salary.
• 24 vacation days per year on a full time basis.
• A sustainable pension arrangement.

Stichting AAP

Why Stichting AAP?
At AAP (Animal Advocacy and Protection) we give shape to an ideal in a professional manner: to improve the welfare of abused or neglected exotic mammals from all over Europe. We advocate for better laws and are an internationally renowned expert. Our commitment demonstrably makes the difference.

AAP operates two rescue and rehabilitation facilities, one in the Netherlands (Stichting AAP Almere) and one in Spain (AAP Primadomus). We shelter animals rescued from illegal trade, circuses, animal-testing laboratories or private owners. For many animals, we find suitable homes in reserves, zoos, and animal parks.

In Almere we have 92 employees and more than 200 volunteers. We work in a spacious and modern location, in the middle of the green heart of Almere. Our office and facility center are located on the same grounds as our rescued animals. Nowhere else can you see the result of your work so directly!

Check out our website www.aap.eu and follow our stories on social media!