Licensed Veterinary Technician
Zoo Atlanta

Job Purpose: Licensed Veterinary Technician to join the Animal Health Department which consists of two veterinarians, three veterinary technicians and a hospital/quarantine keeper in an AZA accredited facility; will report to Sr. Veterinary Technician & VP of Animal Health

JOB FACTORS:                                                                                                

Essential Duties & Responsibilities 

Ø      Will assist the veterinarians in examinations, medical treatments, preventative care, emergency care and all surgical procedures.  

Ø      Provide supportive care for all hospitalized and quarantine animals. 

Ø      Must be knowledgeable in safe animal restraint and become skilled in remote drug delivery via specialized darting equipment.

Ø      Must be knowledgeable in anesthetic monitoring and equipment, sterile technique and preparing surgical instruments and operating areas.

Ø      Will be responsible for obtaining and processing biological samples for in-house diagnostic testing and/or shipment to outside laboratories.  

Ø      Knowledgeable in obtaining and processing radiographs.

Ø      Must be able to prepare and administer prescribed medical treatments and fluid therapy.   

Ø      Responsible for preparing and maintaining accurate medical records, including computer data entry and filing, and for updating/monitoring daily records of hospitalized and quarantined animals.

Ø      Assist and perform basic necropsy, obtain samples for culture and sensitivity, histopathology, storage and shipment to outside laboratories.

Ø      Must have good verbal and written communication skills to interact with curatorial and keeper staff in obtaining patient histories, preparing for medical procedures and monitoring treatments in animal areas.

Ø      Will assist in maintaining zoo hospital, including sanitation, inventory and maintenance of physical plant and equipment.

Ø      May participate in research and conservation programs, including assisting in the development and delivery of educational programs and conducting tours.

Ø      Must be willing to support Zoo Atlanta’s Vision, Mission and Values statement

Ø      Weekend/holiday and some evening work required

Ø      Zoo Atlanta is open to the public 363 days out of the year, therefore, all positions at Zoo Atlanta may require employees to work some weekends, holidays and evenings.

Knowledge/Skills/Abilities:

Ø      Must be able to work as a team member and have the ability to adapt to frequently changing conditions and various job details.  

Ø      Must be able to organize and complete individual tasks when assigned.

Ø      Must communicate effectively and promptly with managers and co-workers verbally and in writing, following appropriate communications channels.

Ø      Animal training experience and knowledge a plus.

Ø      Computer skills in word processing and spreadsheets is desirable.

Ø      Must be able to work well with students and be willing to teach.

QUALIFICATIONS:

Ø      Position requires a minimum of one year of experience as a licensed technician in a veterinary practice.

Ø      Experience with exotic animals or in a zoological setting is desirable. Comparable work experience may be considered.

Education level required for positions:

Ø      Graduation from an AVMA accredited school of Veterinary Technology or comparable degree or job experience that qualifies the applicant for state license.

Ø      Licensure in the state of Georgia required within 90-days of hire.

Certificates/Licenses/Registrations

Ø      Must have a valid Georgia driver’s license

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

Ø      Must be able to lift at least 40 pounds repetitively.  Ability to safely move heavy equipment and animals.

Ø      A pre-employment physical is mandatory for all animal management, all horticulture, all maintenance, and all security, Vet Tech, and Bamboo Tech positions

 

WORK ENVIRONMENT:

Ø      Indoors in veterinary clinic, animal quarantine areas, animal holding areas/exhibits.

Ø      Ability to work outdoors in inclement weather.

Ø      Work involves possible exposure to radiation, zoonotic diseases, potentially hazardous chemicals, narcotics and bio-hazardous waste.

  Please email coverletter and resume to:  amurphy@zooatlanta.org