ZOO VETERINARY TECHNICIAN

Job Summary The Veterinary Technician serves as a key member on the animal care team at Mesker Park Zoo, providing technical and medical support for the health and well‑being of the zoo’s animals. This position is responsible for performing a variety of veterinarian procedures and duties in accordance with established zoo and veterinary professional standards. The Veterinary Technician is expected to work independently, exercising sound judgement within established guidelines and protocols. Essential Duties and Responsibilities Assists with all aspects of veterinary care for zoo animals, including preventive care, medical treatments, immobilization, anesthesia, surgery, post‑operative recovery, intensive care/hospitalization, and necropsies. Performs in‑house laboratory procedures such as operating blood analyzers, preparing and interpreting manual blood smears, conducting urine and fecal analyses, and performing cytology. Collects and submits specimens to outside referral laboratories as needed. Prepares, labels, administers, and distributes medications and chemicals under the direction of the veterinarians. Assists in obtaining various diagnostic imaging, including radiographs, ultrasound, CT scans, etc. Maintains and services veterinary equipment; prepares surgical packs, instruments, and machines for use. Orders and manages inventory of drugs, medical supplies, and equipment. Performs routine cleaning and sanitation of the veterinary facility and animal health areas. Maintains accurate and up‑to‑date animal medical records and oversees the preventive and regulatory medicine tracking system. Provides care for neonatal or juvenile animals as required. Conducts animal health observations and reports findings to staff. Assists with the safe transport of animals for medical or relocation purposes. Monitors the zoo’s parasite control program. Provides guidance, instruction, and technical support to zoo staff regarding animal health and veterinary procedures. Supports the Veterinarian and Zoo Director in departmental risk management and compliance initiatives. Collaborates closely with the Veterinarian, Director of Animals, Animal Curators, Zookeepers, and other zoo staff to ensure effective communication, coordination of services, and adherence to policies. Interacts with the general public as needed to explain and interpret veterinary services and zoo procedures. Performs other related duties as assigned. Skills, Abilities and Knowledge Strong understanding of veterinary sciences, medical procedures, and terminology, including appropriate use of medications and vaccines for a wide variety of animal species. Proficiency in sample collection, anesthesia, surgical techniques, and related technical skills. Ability to identify species‑specific parasites and accurately read blood smears and cytology samples. Working knowledge of operating veterinary equipment, including radiology, laboratory, surgical, anesthesia, and dental equipment. Skilled in the safe handling and restraint of zoo animals, both large and small species, and in observing animals for signs of behavioral or health issues. Ability to establish and maintain organized filing and cataloging systems for animal health records; familiarity with ZIMS medical record system preferred. Strong ability to follow complex oral and written instructions accurately. Education and Experience Bachelor’s degree in animal medical sciences or a related field. Minimum of 3 years of experience working in a veterinary hospital; experience in a zoological setting preferred. Valid Registered Animal Health Technician Certificate issued by the State of Indiana. Additional Requirements Availability to work weekends, holidays, and on‑call shifts as required. Must possess a valid Driver’s License and be able to operate zoo vehicles safely on and off zoo grounds. Work Environment and Physical Requirements Performs work in all weather conditions, both indoors and outdoors. Frequently stands, walks, bends, crouches, and stoops. Lifts and carries light and heavy objects (over 50 lbs.). May be exposed to loud noises, dust, animal feces, infectious diseases, and hazardous chemicals. Works in proximity to potentially dangerous animals. Adheres to safety protocols and uses appropriate protective equipment. This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive list of activities, duties, or responsibilities that are required of the employee. #J-18808-Ljbffr