Facility

Austin Zoo

Closing Date

Description

POSITION SUMMARY
The Austin Zoo in Austin, Texas is a non-profit organization whose mission is to assist animals in need through rescue, conservation, and education. This, small, hill-country zoo is home to nearly 300 animals representing over 100 species of mammals, birds, reptiles, and amphibians, and is fully accredited by the Zoological Association of America. The zoo has a small on-site veterinary clinic with a pharmacy and surgical suite. The clinic is equipped with a digital radiography system.
This position will have dual roles as a veterinary technician and zookeeper. Under the general supervision of the Zoo Veterinarian/Curator, the Veterinary Technician assists in the care of all zoological specimens in the collection. The Veterinary Technician has a key role in the implementation of preventative medicine programs as well as high quality patient care and welfare. The ideal candidate should emphasize collaborative and teamwork behaviors and have the ability to take initiative and work independently. This person must have good organizational skills and be able to handle multiple responsibilities during routine and/or emergency conditions. In general, this position will spend 2 days a week in the sole role of veterinary technician and 3 days a week in keeper routines.

RESPONSIBILITIES
• Prepare for and perform technical duties during medical and surgical procedures.
• Perform sample collection and evaluation, including fecal parasite examinations, urinalysis, and other laboratory tests including preparing samples for shipment.
• Assist in administration of medications and treatments for animals.
• Maintain complete and current computerized medical records as well as performing data entry into ZIMS medical system.
• Maintain hospital standards of cleanliness including but not limited to instrument sterilization and preparation, sweeping, mopping, removing trash, disinfecting, and when necessary, performing animal husbandry duties.
• Maintain hospital inventory, pharmacy, medical and surgical supplies.
• Maintain a controlled substance log and ensure adherence to local state and DEA requirements.
• Regular/Responsive/Collaborative communication with the Veterinarian/Curator regarding new and ongoing medical, behavioral and nutritional concerns
• Participate in regular staff meetings.
• Visually check any animals of concern and report back to the veterinarian daily.
• All aspects of Animal Husbandry including but not limited to cleaning, feeding, medicating, enrichment, training, handling/restraint, etc.
• Keeper chats/encounters as scheduled. Public media as requested by Curator/Director.
• Maintains records pertaining to feeding, water quality analysis, behavioral observations, training activities, medical procedures, etc.
• Reports facility needs to Veterinarian/Curator/Director in a timely way.
• Adherence to area specific standard operating procedures (SOP’s) including safety.
• Must be able to maintain discretion with confidential information.
• Other duties as assigned.

Education and Pre-requisites

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE REQUIRED
• RVT certification required.
• Recent experience working in a veterinary clinic or hospital.
• Clinical experience at a zoological facility preferred.
• Zookeeping experience preferred.
• Ability to communicate clearly and effectively, both verbally and in writing
• Valid Texas driver’s license or ability to obtain one within the first 60 days of employment
• Negative TB test required.
• Ability to react calmly and objectively in emergency situation and under adverse conditions.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
• In good health and capable of performing strenuous and/or heavy physical labor.
• No history of allergy related to animals or plants, which might interfere with ability to work.
• Ability to remain on feet for long periods of time, climb stairs, bend and stoop.
• Ability to work in all weather conditions.
• No impairment of sight, smell, hearing, touch, balance and agility of movement which might interfere with ability to work.
• Physical strength, including the ability to lift up to 50 pounds and be able to move up to 100lbs.
• Immuno-competence (possible exposure to zoonotic infections/disease).
• Proof of negative TB screening prior to placement and annually thereafter required.
• Proof of rabies vaccination preferred.

Compensation and benefits

Vet Tech salary starting at $19.00 commensurate with experience. Monthly health stipend.

Application instructions

HOW TO APPLY
To apply, please send a cover letter and resume via email to Info@austinZoo.org and include references. Applications will be accepted until the position is filled.