Virginia Zoo · Virginia · posted today
Zoological Veterinary Technician Position Join Our Growing Team as a Zoological Veterinary Technician and Help Shape the Future of Wildlife Care The Virginia Zoo is adding a third veterinary technician to our growing team. We are seeking an enthusiastic and skilled Zoological Veterinary Technician to join our animal health department. The growing department includes a Senior Director of Animal Health (diplomate of ACZM and ECZM), two associate veterinarians, an office manager/veterinary technician, a veterinary technician, a Lead Animal Health Keeper, two Animal Health Keepers, and an Animal Registrar. This new veterinary technician position supports the department’s continued expansion and will bring the total number of technician positions to three. This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to the care, health, and welfare of our diverse collection of species. As a vital part of the veterinary team, you’ll play a key role in maintaining the health and well-being of our resident animals and supporting global conservation efforts. Come live by the beautiful Chesapeake Bay; kayak launch sites are just outside our perimeter fence. We are situated 30 minutes from the ocean front and 3 hours from the Blue Ridge Mountains. Adding this position supports our commitment to ensuring a good work-life balance for our team members. Team members accrue 12 days of PTO and 17 holidays (holidays can be banked up to 1 year if you work the holiday) per year. The veterinary technicians currently work a five 8-hour work week, but there is potential to shift to a four 10-hour work week once the team is fully staffed and trained. *This position will remain open until a suitable candidate is found. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis. Department hiring salary range: $50,077-60,000, commensurate with zoological medicine experience. https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/norfolk/jobs/5510350/zoological-veterinary-technician Key Responsibilities: • Maintain and operate the veterinary clinic and laboratory in compliance with all relevant regulations • Ensure cleanliness and maintenance of veterinary equipment and hospital areas • Monitor and maintain appropriate environmental conditions for hospitalized and quarantined animals • Assist veterinarians during medical procedures, surgeries, and exams • Monitor animal anesthesia and recovery • Perform diagnostic testing including bloodwork, urinalysis, fecal analysis, radiography, and other diagnostics as instructed by veterinarians • Maintain accurate medical records, daily reports, inventories, and supply logs • Prepare, dispense, and administer medications, vaccinations, and treatments as prescribed • Work with keepers to train animals for medical behaviors such as voluntary blood collection and hand injections. • Assist in approved research, field activities, and animal transportation between institutions • Enforce zoo visitor safety regulations when applicable • Support neonatal care and hand-rearing as needed Qualifications: • Licensed Veterinary Technician (LVT) in the State of Virginia (must be obtained before start date) • Associate’s or Bachelor’s (preferred) degree in Veterinary Technology from an AVMA-accredited program • Minimum of 2 years of post-graduate clinical experience as a veterinary technician, including at least 1 year working as a zoo veterinary technician in an AZA-accredited (or equivalent) institution • Valid driver’s license Preferred Qualifications: • Experience working with large carnivores, great apes, hoofstock, and megavertebrates • Familiarity with technical skills related to the care of mammals, birds, reptiles, and amphibians • Proficiency in laboratory diagnostics: hematology, biochemistry, fecal analysis, cytology • Experience with remote drug delivery systems • Experience managing drug inventories, tracking expiration dates, and maintaining medical supply stocks • Ability to consult with animal keepers regarding medication plans and health updates • Strong knowledge of animal behavior, restraint, and husbandry practices Work Environment and Safety: Zoo Veterinary Technicians must be aware of the inherent risks associated with working near non-domestic animals, including exposure to zoonotic diseases. Adherence to strict safety protocols is always required to minimize the risk of injury or disease transmission. Due to the nature of the role, weekend shifts are required and occasional after-hours work may be necessary based on caseload. Work includes both indoor and outdoor tasks in all weather conditions. In the event of severe weather (e.g., hurricanes or snowstorms), this role may be required to stay on-site as part of the ride-out team. Job perks: Kind, and supportive culture; 12 days PTO per year; 17 paid holidays per year; health insurance; dental insurance; close to the beach. Virginia Zoo Company Description: The Virginia Zoo in Norfolk is a 53‑acre accredited zoological park dedicated to exceptional animal care, conservation, and community education. Home to more than 700 animals from around the world, the Zoo features immersive habitats, innovative animal health practices, and impactful conservation programs. As a growing, mission‑driven organization, the Virginia Zoo offers a collaborative environment where employees directly support animal welfare and meaningful guest experiences.
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