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Veterinary Technician

Lincoln Park Zoo
Chicago, United States Posted: September 24, 2024


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

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