Come live by the beautiful Chesapeake Bay. Kayak launch sites are just outside our perimeter fence. We are situated 30 minutes from the ocean front and 3 hours from the Blue Ridge Mountains. We are looking for an experienced zoo veterinary technician to join our team. The veterinary department consists of a board certified head vet, an associate vet, an office manager/vet tech, and possibly you. This position will report to the Veterinary Hospital Manager. This position primarily assists in veterinary medical procedures and recovery at the Virginia Zoo. Provides care and daily husbandry for animals in hospital.
- This position is responsible for providing clinical support to the veterinarians, to include assistance with medical diagnostics and clinical procedures, patient care, laboratory analysis, filling prescriptions, administration of treatments, maintenance of clinical facilities, equipment, and medical records. Working nights or weekends may be required depending on the schedules of the zoo veterinarian or the status of some animal cases and situations.
- This position must also be aware of the risks inherent in working with zoo animals including exposure to zoonotic diseases and must take proper safety precautions to minimize the potential for injury by animals and the potential for disease transmission.
- This position may also be involved in assisting with acquisition and disposition of animals, transportation of animals between institutions, and managing rearing of young including hand-rearing when necessary. The management of the quarantine and hospital spaces fall under the responsibility of this position which includes keeping areas clean and always well organized.
- This position partners with the animal care team at the Zoo.
- The responsibilities include a strong emphasis on teamwork and the ability to work collaboratively and communicate effectively within a diverse team of professionals.
- Also involves indoor and outdoor work in all weather conditions.
- In the event of severe weather (snowstorms, hurricanes, etc.) you may be required to stay on-site as a member of the ride-out team.
Experience Required
- An associate or bachelor’s degree in veterinary technology from a program approved by the American Veterinary Medical Association is required.
- Must be a licensed veterinary technician (LVT) in the state of Virginia or the have the ability to obtain licensure in the state of VA within 6 months of hire.
- Minimum of 2 years postgraduate clinical experience as a veterinary technician with 1-2 years of experience working in a zoo setting (employment at an AZA accredited institution is preferred).
- General knowledge of technical skills, restraint techniques, anatomy, physiology, and diseases of a wide variety of species of mammals, birds, reptiles and amphibians.
- Knowledge of laboratory diagnostic techniques for evaluation of samples including hematology, biochemistry, fecal examination and cytology.
- Experience administering medications to zoo animals under veterinarian supervision, ordering and monitoring supplies, drugs and medical equipment.
- Other responsibilities include tracking drug expirations, logging drug inventory, and maintaining stock as well as consulting with keepers for information concerning drug administration and updates on the animal's health.
- Experience utilizing remote drug delivery systems.
- Must have National Certification.
- Must have a valid drivers’ license.
Perks
- paid holidays, vacation and sick leave, employer paid pension plan, basic life insurance, voluntary participation in medical and dental, Section 457 deferred compensation, long-term disability, optional life insurance for self, spouse and children, medical and dependent care reimbursement plans, access to membership in credit union and employer provided parking, zoo membership, scrub tops and outerwear provided
Salary
- $41,231 - $67,207
