Position Summary:
The Veterinary Technician is responsible for supporting the veterinary services department in providing medical care for the entire collection of animals at Mississippi Aquarium and rehabilitating sea turtle patients. The ideal candidate will represent Mississippi Aquarium in a positive manner, demonstrating enthusiasm and a strong commitment to all aspects of the position.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
Provides medical treatments and performs daily evaluations of patients under the guidance of staff veterinarians.Operates and maintains all veterinary diagnostic and laboratory equipment within the veterinary hospitalPerforms laboratory diagnostic evaluation such as cytological and/or microbiological sample collection, hematology, parasitology, urinalysis and necropsy techniques.Helps with scheduling routine and emergent animal examinationsAssists in maintaining the veterinary pharmacy, ensuring compliance with controlled substances regulations, removing and replacing expired medications and supplies. Collect diagnostic samples on all collection animals at direction of veterinarianPrepare and ship out diagnostic samples to external laboratories as neededPrepare for and assist in large medical and surgical proceduresAssist with and/or independently perform necropsy examinationsMaintains a high level of competency in the operation of all diagnostic equipment including digital radiography, ultrasound, and endoscopyPrepare and dispense prescriptionsMaintain accurate animal medical records promptlyInput data entry of test sample results from external diagnostic laboratories into medical records Process research samples as needed, including cleaning/organizing the specimen refrigerators and ultralow (-80) freezerMaintain standard operating procedures (SOPs) for veterinary departmentMentor and assist with training of volunteers, interns, and externs that participate in and support daily clinical activities.Collaborate with all MSAQ departments as neededWork with animal care teams on behavior training of animals for medical procedures.Attend professional meetings and conferences for continuing education and represent MSAQ by giving presentationsOther duties as assignedRequired Qualifications and Skills:
Graduate of an AVMA accredited veterinary technology programCredentialed veterinary technician (CVT/RVT/LVT). Out-of-state candidates must obtain Mississippi licensure within one year of employment at MSAQ.1-2 years of veterinary technician experience in a wildlife, zoo, and/or aquarium setting. Alternately, at least 3 years as a veterinary technician in another setting. Knowledge in day-to-day function and in a veterinary hospital, with a knowledge base of veterinary nursingExperience with laboratory diagnosticsExperience with aquatic species and/or exotic and zoo species in any capacityProficient in Microsoft Office suite (Excel, word, power point etc.)Strong written and verbal communication skillsAbility to take initiative and work independently in the absence of supervision Follow written standard operating procedures and verbal directivesAble to work indoors and outdoors in all weather conditionsFlexible schedule to allow for working various shifts/hours including some nights, weekends, and holidays, as well as being on call to respond to emergenciesHold valid state driver’s licenseAccess to have reliable personal transportation to allow for movement between worksites throughout the day as neededPreferred Qualifications:
Experience with using Tracks Software and VetRocket/RocketPACSFamiliar with monitoring non-domestic animal patients under anesthesia/sedationExperience performing necropsy examinationsKnowledge of medical procedures and rehabilitation of sea turtles preferredInterest in rehabilitation of animals and participation in research/scientific studies Physical Requirements
Lift, push, and pull 50 poundsWalk/stand for long periods of time Maneuver safely on uneven terrain or in tight spacesSafely climb ladders when neededSquat, bend, kneel, twist and reachPush and pull larger equipmentWork outdoors in all weather conditions and adapt to changing weatherNote: This position will involve exposure to inclement weather, dust, potentially dangerous and unpredictable animals, potentially dangerous machinery, restraint devices, hazardous chemicals and/or drugs, and zoonotic diseases.
Occasional use of protective clothing or equipment will be required. For example, googles, mask, gloves, gowns, and other items as necessary.
This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.
Will be required to provide 2 written letters of recommendation if asked to interview
