Veterinary Technician

Under the supervision of a licensed staff veterinarian, employee will perform veterinary technical support to staff veterinarians for the care of collection animals, in the animal clinic and in the field.  Responsibilities include assisting veterinarians with the implementation of all aspects of a comprehensive healthcare program for a wide variety of exotic animals.  This includes but is not limited to: animal restraint (manual and chemical), sample collections, clinical procedures, anesthesia, radiology, pharmacology, surgical and pathology service support.  Performance of in-house laboratory procedures, preparing and shipping samples for reference labs, data collection/record keeping via computer programs, pharmacy/inventory management, equipment maintenance and facility upkeep are also duties for this position.

General knowledge of

• Animal behavior
• Biology of exotic and domestic animals
• Neonatal care
• Clinical pathology techniques (manual and automated)
• Diagnostic sample collection/preparation
• Techniques for restraining and capturing exotic and domestic animals
• Anesthesiology: inhalant and injectable agents, appropriate delivery methods,  manual and mechanical monitoring methods
• Zoonotic disease awareness and prevention
• Sterilization and disinfection methods

Capable of

• Assisting in routine and emergency veterinary procedures
• Following sterile procedures/surgical support
• Appropriate necropsy methods
• Caring for hospitalized patients, including feeding, husbandry, and medicating
• Pharmacology inventory management,  dosage calculations, appropriate administration methods, safety techniques, darting equipment
• Recognizing and appropriately responding to medical human or animal related emergencies
• Maintaining clinic and equipment, including cleaning and disinfection
• Operating clinical  laboratory, radiology, and ultrasound equipment correctly
• Performing in-house laboratory testing, including parasitology, urinalysis, manual blood counts on non-mammalian species, cytology, and special staining
• Preparing biological samples for shipment to outside laboratories
• Maintaining accurate medical records and controlled drug log, utilizing both digital and paper systems
• Using computer programs, including Microsoft products and specialized record keeping and data collection programs
• Maintaining inventory management, and equipment operation and maintenance
• Operating motorized vehicles and equipment. Applicant must possess a valid driver’s license
• Creative thinking, working in a team oriented environment, and possessing excellent verbal and written communication skills

Strong organizational skills

• Ability to participate in teaching/outreach programs, including tours and presentations
• Following multiple directions from veterinarians, and making ethical decisions within the state’s parameters for licensed veterinary technicians
• Performing other duties as assigned

Education/Experience

• Graduation from an accredited AVMA veterinary technology program
• Ability to obtain licensure in the state of Tennessee within 6 months of employment
• 5 years of veterinary technician experience with a minimum two years’ experience as a veterinary technician with non-domestic species a zoological institution.

Physical Requirement & Work Environment

• Negative TB skin test or equivalent.
• Must be dexterous, able to stand/walk up to 6-8 hours, 
• Must be able to work outside year-round, under typical Tennessee weather conditions and temperatures for extended periods of time. 
• Must be able to work in uneven terrain with exposure to varying weather conditions, dust, and allergens. 
• Must be able to move about on slippery surfaces, handle potentially toxic and hazardous materials and work in cramped and confined spaces. 
• Must be able to lift and carry materials up to 50 pounds.
• Position is subject to animal bites, scratches.

Pre-Employment Requirements:

Nashville Zoo is an EEO institution and Drug Free Workplace

Offers for this position are contingent on the satisfactory results of a pre-employment drug screen and criminal background check.

Perks

medical, dental, vision, LTD, STD, voluntary life and AD&D insurance, 401-k match