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
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
