Veterinary Technician

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Located along the Space Coast in Melbourne, Florida, the Brevard Zoo is an AZA-accredited facility with a diverse collection of over 900 animals representing nearly 200 species. It is also home to the Sea Turtle Healing Center for rehabilitation of wild marine turtles. Brevard Zoo is well-known for its strong conservation ethic and unique attractions, such as kayaking through the Africa area, giraffe feeding, and rhinoceros and lemur encounters.

The Zoo's growing Department of Veterinary Programs is seeking a dynamic individual to join our team of dedicated animal health professionals as a Veterinary Technician. We are searching for a team-oriented candidate that is positive, motivated, and engaging, and will enthusiastically represent Brevard Zoo in all aspects of the job. The Veterinary Programs team consists of its Director, Staff Veterinarian, Veterinary Intern, Veterinary Technician, Veterinary Resource Manager, Animal Nutrition Technicians, Sea Turtle Program Manager, and Sea Turtle Program Coordinator.

QUALIFICATIONS

EDUCATION AND RELEVANT EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS

REQUIRED:

• Veterinary technology degree from AVMA Accredited program.
• Ability to be certified in Florida within 90 days of hire.
• Obtain Florida Driver's License within 90 days of hire.
• Minimum one year of clinical experience in a zoological facility, preferably one that is accredited by the AZA.
• 3-5 years of professional work experience, preferably with non-domestic species.
• Strong background in performing in-house laboratory testing (e.g., hematology, serum chemistry, cytology, urinalysis, parasitological exams), anesthetic monitoring, and equipment maintenance.

PREFERRED/DESIRED:

• Experience in avian and reptile hematology is preferred
• Working knowledge of ZIMS computer medical record keeping system and Microsoft Office products

PERFORMANCE RESPONSIBILITIES

Essential Functions:

• Preparing for, assisting with, and monitoring of anesthesia.
• Preparing for and assisting with medical and surgical procedures, including phlebotomy, other sample collection, and diagnostic imaging.
• Assisting zoo veterinarians with triage of medical cases presented to the hospital.
• Performing laboratory diagnostic evaluation, including hematology, blood chemistry, cytology, and fecal parasite examinations, as well as preparing biomedical samples for shipment to off-site laboratories or investigators.
• Assisting with administration of medication and treatments for animals including restraint, wound care, and laser therapy.
• Assisting in euthanasia and necropsy examination of animals.
• Filling and organizing medical prescriptions and maintaining pharmacy supplies and drug inventory.
• Assisting with animal husbandry needs for hospitalized patients.
• Performing data entry and maintaining complete and current applicable medical records using ZIMS record-keeping system.
• Maintaining standards and cleanliness of laboratory; cleaning, stocking, and maintaining equipment and supplies for radiology, treatment and surgical suites including sterilization procedures.
• Organizing hospital and laboratory workflow to maximize operational efficiency, including investigating new medical equipment or laboratory protocols.
• Supervising and participating in the overall care and maintenance of medical, surgical, and animal holding areas to ensure animal health and safety and staff safety through standard operating procedures for animal care as set forth by AZA, USDA, DEA, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation, Florida Department of Health, and Brevard Zoo.
• Instructing a variety of veterinary and veterinary technology students, interns, and volunteers.
• Handling multiple and complex responsibilities at the same time; be timely and reliable in attendance and performance; can work well with all levels of staff, volunteers, vendors, and guests.
• Assisting in research and special maintenance projects, educational and training programs, tours, and other duties as requested.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Ability to react calmly and objectively in emergency situations and under adverse conditions.
• Ability to take initiative and work independently in the absence of immediate supervision.
• Ability to communicate clearly and effectively, both verbally and in writing.
• Ability to maintain a professional and respectful demeanor at all times.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS/WORK ENVIRONMENT

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

Exerting up to 50 pounds of force occasionally, and/or up to 25 pounds of force frequently and/or up to 10 pounds of force constantly to move objects as needed to move objects.

POTENTIAL ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS/HAZARDS:

Indoor office environment most often with frequent movement outdoors. Exposure to extreme heat and weather conditions. Requires Sitting, Standing, Walking, Bending, Stooping, Kneeling, Finger Dexterity, Talking, Hearing, and Visual Acuity frequently.

WORK SCHEDULE:

May be required to work weekends and nights as necessary.

• Veterinary technology degree from AVMA Accredited program.
• Ability to be certified in Florida within 90 days of hire.
• Obtain Florida Driver's License within 90 days of hire.
• Minimum one year of clinical experience in a zoological facility, preferably one that is accredited by the AZA.
• 3-5 years of professional work experience, preferably with non-domestic species.
• Strong background in performing in-house laboratory testing (e.g., hematology, serum chemistry, cytology, urinalysis, parasitological exams), anesthetic monitoring, and equipment maintenance.PREFERRED/DESIRED:
• Experience in avian and reptile hematology is preferred
• Working knowledge of ZIMS computer medical record keeping system and Microsoft Office products

Please send cover letter and resume to

Brevard Zoo
8225 N Wickham Rd
Melbourne, FL 32940
Phone: