Driver Volunteer

For the Animal Planning and Logistics (APL) department in AAP Almere, the Netherlands, AAP is looking for enthusiastic volunteer drivers who are ready to make a real difference for animals in need. Are you looking for a meaningful volunteering role where your driving skills can help give rescued animals a fresh start? Then this might be the volunteering job for you! 

Your department
The APL team is responsible for managing the journey of our animals, from the moment they are rescued until they find their forever homes. The team oversees the daily operations of our two rescue centers, located in Almere, the Netherlands, and Villena, Spain.

Our Logistics Department is currently looking for new volunteer drivers for our rescue center in the Netherlands. As a volunteer driver, you'll help transport animals that are on their way to their forever homes, as well as animals arriving at AAP for rescue and care.

What will you do? 
As a volunteer driver, you will play an important role in helping rescued animals reach their new forever homes at our Outplacement partners. This role involves transporting animals safely and comfortably, as well as assisting with loading and unloading transport crates. The work can sometimes be physically demanding, so a positive attitude and good health is essential.

• During the journeys, you will also help monitor the animals' wellbeing, ensuring they remain as comfortable and stress-free as possible. You are responsible for transporting animals safely to their new home. You might also play a key role during animal intakes, supporting our Animal Care Team when additional help is required.
• You have a positive, flexible attitude, enjoy working with fellow volunteers, and remain calm, patient, and attentive around animals. The welfare of the animals is always your priority.
• You are happy to assist with the loading and unloading of transport crates and kennels when required.
• During transports, you help monitor the animals' well-being and comfort, ensuring they travel safely and with as little stress as possible.

What does AAP offer?

• An inspiring working environment situated in the green heart of Almere, within close reach of Amsterdam and Utrecht.
• A workplace close to the animals we rescue.
• A position with social value and relevance, within an international company.  
• A professional workplace that encourages and supports dedication, accessibility and decisiveness.
• You will contribute to improving the welfare of exotic animals
• You will meet new people and gain new experiences
• You will receive a travel allowance
• Free vegetarian lunch in the AAP canteen
• As a volunteer, you fulfil an indispensable role!

 What do we ask of you?

• You hold a valid driving license and are comfortable driving both manual and automatic vehicles.
• You enjoy being on the road and are willing to undertake both short and long journeys.
• You are fit enough to do physical work.
• You have an affinity to AAP's mission.
• You have experience with long-distance driving, preferably in a variety of traffic and weather conditions.
• You can communicate effectively in both Dutch and English

Would you like to more about the position? If so, please contact Lisette Hoorn, Volunteer Coordinator, at vrijwilligerswerk@aap.nl or call 036-5238735.  You can apply via our application form.

Only people with the right to work within the EU will be considered for this application.

About AAP
AAP Animal Advocacy and Protection is a European animal welfare organization dedicated to the welfare of exotic animals. It is our mission to end their suffering by rescuing animals in need and advocating for better laws and regulations.

AAP operates two rescue and rehabilitation facilities, one in Almere (the Netherlands) and one in Villena (Spain). We rescue animals from illegal trading, circuses or private owners and help them recover both mentally and physically. When they are rehabilitated and ready to move on, we find them a place at one of our outplacement partners, such as a sanctuary or suitable zoo. 

About 100 employees and more than 200 volunteers work at AAP in The Netherlands. 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.  This means the results of your hard work are always close by!

For more information, check out our website www.aap.eu and follow our stories on social media.