Veterinary Technician

Lincoln Park Zoo inspires communities to create environments where wildlife will thrive in our urbanizing world. The zoo is a leader in local and global conservation, animal care and welfare, learning, and science. A historic Chicago landmark founded in 1868, the not-for-profit Lincoln Park Zoo, is a privately-managed, member-supported organization and is free and open 365 days a year. Visit us at lpzoo.org.

GENERAL SUMMARY

• Provide technical assistance to the veterinary department.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Under general supervision, assists veterinarians in the medical care of the animal collection including all species of mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, fish and invertebrates.
• Under general supervision, assists veterinarians in training activities related to the medical care of the animal collection as above.
• Administers anesthesia under the direction of a veterinarian, monitors said animals under general anesthesia, and assists in surgery. 
• Assists in veterinary and animal emergencies.
• Supervises and performs cleaning, disinfection, and sterilization of surgical instruments, equipment, and hospital and operating areas to maintain zoo hospital in a clean and orderly condition.
• Performs other related duties required by veterinarians to maintain and operate the hospital safely and efficiently. 
• Operates the diagnostic laboratory, including, but not limited to, hematology, biochemistry analysis, cytology, and parasitology.
• Prepares biological specimens for shipment. 
• Organizes and maintains pharmacy including rotating inventory, removing expired products, and ordering pharmaceuticals and supplies, under the direction of veterinarians. 
• Operates and maintains radiographic equipment. 
• Dispenses and administers medications and vaccinations as prescribed by veterinarians.
• Assist with post-mortem examinations through necropsies, cleaning, waste removal, or sample handling.
• Maintains accurate records, including computer entry for Tracks or similar programs.
• Assists with coordination of the activities of veterinary and veterinary technician students, volunteers, and other individuals as directed by zoo veterinarians.
• Assists in any special maintenance project as required. 
• Must demonstrate knowledge of occupational hazards involved and the safe work practices to employ while in proximity of potentially dangerous animals or substances.

ADDITIONAL RESPONSIBILITIES

• Assist in educational and/or research programs as requested.
• Assist in preparation and presentation of training programs for zoo volunteers and new employees as requested.
• Conduct tours for visitors and volunteers as requested.
• Other duties as assigned.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, & ABILITIES

• Ability to record and deliver information, to explain procedures, to follow oral and written instructions, and otherwise communicate effectively and efficiently with co-workers and supervisor.
• Knowledge of computer programs of basic word processing, spreadsheets, and internet database access.
• Ability to interact courteously and respectfully with supervisors, fellow employees, volunteers, our visitors, and the general public.
• Comprehensive knowledge of the zoo’s mission and philosophy
• Ability to exercise sound judgment in emergency situations and to respond with appropriate action          
• Good skill in safe operation of veterinary equipment including but not limited to restraint, remote injection, radiography and other imaging, and surgical, monitoring and anesthetic equipment
• Good interpersonal skills including ability to get along with diverse groups with tact and maturity.
• Ability to represent Lincoln Park Zoological Society in a professional manner at all times
• Ability to interact courteously and respectfully with visitors and general public

EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS

• Graduation from an AVMA-accredited school of veterinary technology.

EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS

• Preference will be given to those individuals with a least one year of experience as a veterinary technician, preferably with exotic or zoo animals.
• Note: 
• A comparable combination of education, experience or training that would provide the level of knowledge, skills and ability required may qualify an individual provided the individual can be certified as a veterinary technician in the State of Illinois. 

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

• Ability to remain on feet for long periods of time
• Ability to traverse zoo grounds without vehicle
• Ability to handle and restrain zoo animals
• Ability to perform a variety of physical tasks that include but are not limited to climbing, bending, stooping, kneeling, twisting, reaching, crawling
• The employee will be regularly exposed to water, chemicals, and potentially loud noises.
• Physical strength, including ability to regularly move 30 lb objects and occasionally move 50 lb objects
• Ability to work in small, confined spaces
• Ability to work in all weather conditions – including potentially adverse conditions
• Ability to wear requisite Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) that may include rubber/latex gloves, masks, eye goggles and airway protection
• No allergy related to plants or animals that may interfere with the ability to work
• No impairment of sight, smell, hearing, touch balance or ability of movement that might interfere with ability to work
• Ability to maintain immune response to exposure to infectious and parasitic diseases

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS

• Available to work any of seven days of the week or special needs or events that may occur outside of regular work schedule, including evenings, weekends or holidays, as required. 
• Non-infectious tuberculosis status via intradermal skin test, thoracic radiographs, or treatment regimen. 
• Current Rabies vaccinations as required by the department.

LICENSES AND CERTIFICATES

• Certified as a veterinary technician in the State of Illinois or similarly certified in another state and must obtain Illinois license within thirty (30) days from date of hire.
• Maintain said certification appropriately with continuing education and ethics.
• Valid IL driver’s license and able to maintain a good driving record.
• Salary: $30.16/hr.
• Lincoln Park Zoo is committed to an environment that is inclusive and welcoming. 
• We celebrate the diverse qualities, perspectives, values and experiences of all people. 
• For Wildlife.
• For All.

Salary

• $30.16/hr