Veterinary Forensic Science Coordinator

Summary:

Overview

The Veterinary Forensic Science Coordinator plays a key role on this team by supporting the forensic casework for NYPD animal cruelty cases, including all aspects of the forensic evaluation and evidence documentation of animal cruelty cases brought to the ASPCA 92nd St. Animal Hospital. This includes intake of live and deceased animals, animal handling, medical record and legal paperwork management and computer data entry. Other responsibilities include evidence handling and photography, radiography, and participation in necropsy of deceased animals. This is a unique opportunity for a person with interest in forensic science, veterinary medicine and animal welfare. Veterinary Forensic Science Coordinator reports directly to the Forensic Sciences Manager and has no direct reports.

Who We Are

The Forensic Sciences team in the Humane Law Enforcement department works to support casework and advance and execute the application of veterinary medicine and forensic sciences to the investigation, prosecution and prevention of cruelty to animals. We strive to advance the fields of forensic veterinary medicine and forensic applied animal behavior through original research and outreach to professionals in allied disciplines.

Where and When You’ll Work

This position is an on-site role and reports to 424 E 92nd St. New York, NY 10128 ASPCA location. The schedule is Sunday – Thursday with a variability in requested shifts of 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM and 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM. Schedule is subject to change for appropriate coverage.

What You’ll Get

Compensation

Benefits

At the ASPCA, you don’t have to choose between your passion and making a living. Our comprehensive benefits package helps ensure you can live a rewarding life at work and at home. Our benefits include, but are not limited to:

• Affordable health coverage, including medical, employer-paid dental, and optional vision coverage.
• Flexible time off that includes vacation time, sick and bereavement time, paid parental leave, 10 company paid holidays, and paid personal time off that allows you even more flexibility to observe the days that mean the most to you.
• Competitive financial incentives and retirement savings including a 401(k) plan with generous employer contributions — we match dollar for dollar up to 4% and provide an additional 4% contribution toward your future each year.
• Robust professional development opportunities including classes, on-the-job training, coaching and mentorship with industry-leading peers, internal mobility, opportunities to support in the field, and so much more.

Responsibilities:

Responsibilities include but are not limited to:

Administrative (75%)

• Computer Data Entry in Forensic/Legal Database and ASPCA Animal Hospital (AAH) Database: Case and animal identification, arrest information, animal legal and forensic status, animal location and disposition
• Forensic case record management.  Responsible for creation of medical records and adding paperwork to medical record as it is produced during animal’s stay at AAH
• Provides District Attorney’s offices with discovery related to animal cruelty cases
• Oversee collection of forensic patient weekly weights
• Assist in the development of new protocols and standard operating guidelines for NYC Anti-Cruelty animals

Forensic Science and Veterinary Medicine (25%)

• Assist with live medical animal handling
• Handling of deceased animal remains
• Assist with all aspects of veterinary forensic work, including intake of all live and deceased animals as well as forensic photography of animals and other evidence
• Preparation of equipment and participation in off-site work including scene investigations in the NYC area
• Support evidence handling and safekeeping.
• Assist in forensic necropsies including, medical notes, forensic photography, sample collection and animal dissection
• Responsible for maintenance of necropsy room, including cleaning and management of refrigerator and freezer where deceased animal bodies are stored
• Assist with maintenance of inventory and ordering of forensic supplies and stock crime scene kits as directed by the Forensic Manager
• Send outside lab samples including, but not limited to, Babesia, DNA, and necropsy samples.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 1 year experience in animal welfare, direct animal care, shelter experience, forensic science or a related field required
• Safe and humane animal handling skills with dog and cat handling experience desirable. For example, working directly with animals at a shelter, training facility, dog day care, dog walking service, or boarding kennel.
• Basic knowledge of forensic science and its application to veterinary medicine is preferred
• Excellent communication skills and the ability to work collaboratively.
• Detail oriented
• Knowledge of and proficiency using computers (Outlook, Microsoft Office) required
• Knowledge of and proficiency using software such as Box, Salesforce, Impromed preferred
• Presents information clearly in verbal and written form.
• Must be able to bend, crawl, climb, reach overhead, kneel and work in a stationary position for 8 or more hours to meet the physical requirements of this position
• Must be able to lift and carry up to 25 lbs.
• Able to occasionally work in physically challenging conditions, including cold temperatures and be able wear appropriate protective gear, including a protective mask and full Tyvek suit. Potential environmental factors include exposure to biological hazards, such as feces and blood, and exposure to sharp objects
• Must provide a valid driver’s license upon hire and pass a motor vehicle history check demonstrating a safe driving history a plus
• Ability to exemplify ASPCA’s core values, behavioral competencies, and commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.

Education and Work Experience

• Minimum of Bachelor’s Degree in any discipline. (Animal Sciences or Criminal Justice preferred) or equivalent experience
• High school degree required
• Familiarity using medical and/or forensic databases preferred
• Familiarity with necropsy and handling of deceased animals preferred
• Familiarity with photography, radiography, and participation in necropsy of deceased animals preferred

Additional Information

• We encourage a candidate who demonstrates outstanding inter-personal communication and the ability to work in a team environment or independently, with a high degree of integrity and accountability. This position welcomes a candidate with a sense of humor that can balance flexibility and enthusiasm and thrives on detail.

Qualifications:

See above for qualifications details.

Language:

English (Required)

Education and Work Experience: