Veterinary Technician

Birmingham Zoo • Birmingham, AL

396d

About The Position

The Birmingham Zoo is seeking two licensed veterinary technicians to join its Animal Health Center (AHC) team. This role involves working with a diverse range of animals, assisting in medical procedures, and contributing to the zoo's conservation efforts. The position emphasizes teamwork, clinical skill development, and a supportive work environment, with a focus on maintaining the health and wellbeing of the animal collection.

Requirements

• Graduate from an AVMA accredited veterinary technology program.
• Licensed (CVT, RVT or LVT) and able to obtain an Alabama license within 3 months of employment.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team with minimal supervision.
• Strong time management, organization, and prioritization skills.
• Current valid driver's license with no prior traffic violations in the last five years.
• Current negative TB test and rabies titer, or willingness to undergo testing.
• First Aid/CPR certified or willing to be trained.

Nice To Haves

• Knowledge of Microsoft Office and Outlook; experience with ZIMS preferred.
• Strong interest in advancing conservation missions of zoos and aquariums.
• Alignment with the Zoo's core values: passion, excellence, teamwork, sustainability, diversity, and inclusion.

Responsibilities

• Participate and manage cases under the supervision of veterinarians.
• Assist with anesthetic events including induction, intubation, and monitoring.
• Perform or assist with necropsies.
• Use and maintain medical equipment such as digital radiography and ultrasound.
• Manage and enter patient records in ZIMS.
• Calculate, fill, compound, and administer prescriptions.
• Perform necessary medical treatments for animals.
• Conduct laboratory techniques including fecal analysis and urinalysis.
• Capture, crate, and transfer animals using appropriate techniques.
• Prepare and package samples for shipment or archive.
• Handle Class II narcotics and controlled substances according to protocols.
• Assist in daily husbandry of hospitalized and quarantine patients.
• Maintain cleanliness and orderliness of the AHC according to AZA and USDA standards.
• Participate in behavioral training of animals for medical procedures.
• Perform euthanasia of animals as directed by veterinarians.
• Communicate issues or concerns regarding the collection or staff to veterinarians or senior staff.

Benefits

• Veterinary technician license transfer fees and renewal costs covered.
• Continuing education requirements paid for, including registration, time off, and travel if applicable.
• AZVT annual membership dues covered.
• Support for pursuing Veterinary Technician Specialty certification in zoological medicine.
• Variety of teamwear provided, including scrub tops.
• Generous paid time off including 10 paid holidays, bereavement, pet bereavement, parental leave, voting leave, and jury duty.
• Time and a half pay for hours worked during inclement weather.
• Competitive medical benefits package including health, vision, and dental coverage.
• Disability and life insurance coverage available.
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for personal or work-related issues.
• 401K plan with significant company match after one year of employment.
• Eligibility for the Passion Into Conservation Action (PiCA) grant after one year.
• Free zoo membership and discounted memberships to local attractions.
• One free week per year of Children's Zoo Camp and additional weeks at a discounted rate.
• Discounts at food and beverage locations within the zoo and in the zoo gift shop.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Industry: Museums, Historical Sites, and Similar Institutions
• Education Level: No Education Listed
• Number of Employees: 251-500 employees