Veterinary Technician (Seasonal)

Join the PRIDE!


This position contributes to the success of Brookfield Zoo Chicago (“BZC”) by providing experienced technical and medical support to the veterinary staff in creating innovations and excellence in conservation leadership and animal welfare by enabling the Hospital Operations Department to meet the most current standards for specialized veterinary care.

This is a temporary/seasonal non-union position, salary grade Sea07, with a starting pay rate of $32.24 per hour. The Benefits Summary Information (for this position, please refer to the seasonal employees section): Benefits Table and/or details also provided below after the job description information. Or paste in your browser to view:
www.brookfieldzoo.org/custom.czs/files/06/06337b2c-b3db-45a2-8eb2-f8362486bd0e.pdf

Primary job duties and responsibilities:
Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential job functions.
1. * Prepare for and assist veterinary staff in performing clinical procedures. Maintain and monitor anesthesia, including the operation of inhalation anesthesia equipment and patient monitoring devices.
2. * Conduct various types of laboratory tests including, but not limited to, comprehensive hematology and serum chemistry, cytology, and fecal analysis for parasites. Create and maintain accurate medical record documentation of clinical procedures, prescriptions, and diagnostic laboratory work. Forward samples for analysis of non-routine tests and research requests to outside referral laboratories. Under necessary conditions, assist with sample preparation, clean animal enclosures, pools, and service areas as required.
3. * Operate and maintain imaging equipment, including digital radiography, mammography, computed tomography, and ultrasound h direction from veterinary staff. Conduct diagnostic imaging, including positioning of the patient, exposure, and development of radiographs. Perform cleaning, disinfection, and sterilization of the treatment room, surgical suite, surgical instruments, and equipment. Perform troubleshooting, quality control procedures, and required maintenance on laboratory instruments and equipment
4. * Accurately dispense and record medical prescriptions. Properly administer medications and vaccinations as directed by veterinarians. Maintain current pharmacy inventory, treatment areas, laboratory, and equipment inventory. Assist with ordering drugs, medical supplies, laboratory supplies, and inventory maintenance.
5. * Communicate regularly with the Hospital Manager and Associate Veterinarians regarding management of active medical cases including, but not limited to, medical procedures, nutrition, training, and behavioral enrichment.
6. * Report equipment and facility maintenance needs and perform minor maintenance tasks.
7. * Monitor guests to ensure animal and human safety and protection of park property. Communicate with and assist guests. Take initiative to facilitate guests’ appreciation of animals and enjoyment of their visit.
8. Other related duties as assigned.
* Denotes Essential Job Function(s)

Position requirements:
• Graduation from an AVMA certified school of veterinary technology required. Licensure in the state of Illinois within 90 days of hire required.
• Completion of a zoo-focused internship and/or one-year experience with non-domestic or exotic species as a certified veterinary technician in a zoo or private practice required.
• Excellent technical skills, including proficiency in restraint, sample collections techniques, patient monitoring, intravenous catheter placement, cytology, parasitology, and blood analysis, with domestic animals required.
• Detailed and current knowledge of veterinary medical practices, animal anatomy and physiology, basic pharmacology and principles of anesthesia required.
• Ability to work with live animals safely.
• Knowledge of sterile techniques and surgical equipment cleaning and sterilization in addition to knowledge of infection control and quarantine practices.
• Ability to deliver various medications through standard practices.
• Capable of dealing with emergencies calmly and efficiently.
• Good decision-making skills and sound judgment.
• Proficient in perceiving and acting upon relevant changes in animal behaviors and conditions.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality with regard to animal matters, personnel and other privileged information.
• Team player and able to develop and maintain good working relationships.
• Ability to work with minimal supervision.
• Strong communications (reading, writing, and speaking) and interpersonal skills required. English fluency at a professional proficiency required.
• Computer proficiency with Window