Certified Veterinarian Technician

The Wildlife Hospital at Lion Country Safari is seeking a qualified candidate for the position of a full-time Certified Veterinary Technician. Located in Loxahatchee, Florida (just west of West Palm Beach in Palm Beach County), Lion Country Safari is a diverse zoological park, which is home to almost 900 animals. The park boasts a 320-acre drive through preserve, that allows non-domestic hoof stock, rhinos, ostriches, and lions (in their own exhibit area) to roam freely. Individual islands are home to siamangs, gibbons and chimpanzees. Additionally, a variety of avian species, small ruminants and reptiles are on display and provide interactive experiences with the guest in our walk-through portion of the zoo. Our facility also includes a water park, small rides for children, a boat ride, miniature golf, a restaurant, and gift shops.

Lion Country Safari Mission Statement: Be a leader in animal care, conservation, and education to inspire people through connections with wildlife in a fun, family-friendly environment.

General Job Description

Under Veterinary supervision and reporting to the hospital manager, the Certified Veterinary Technician’s duties include, but are not limited to the following:

• Aiding the veterinarians in all forms of routine health procedures, field immobilizations, administration of medicines and anesthetics, husbandry, surgery, necropsy, etc.
• Performance of in-house laboratory procedures (i.e., fecals, urinalysis, blood smears, etc.)
• Preparation of samples to be sent to other laboratories
• Maintenance of accurate records and knowledge of ZIMS
• Caring for and observing animals housed in the Wildlife Hospital as needed.
• Maintaining/Cleaning of entire hospital and all equipment.

Benefits

• Insurance coverage (medical, dental, and life)
• 401(k)
• Paid holidays and paid time off
• Performance based increase and review after first 90 days

Employee Perks

• 40% off lunch at the restaurant
• 30% off all retail shops
• Free tickets to Lion Country Safari
• Free tickets to attractions through Florida and discounts for family members
• Free uniforms

DFWO/EOE

Minimum Qualifications Lion Country Safari requires Veterinary Technicians to be eligible for Certification in the state of Florida within 6 months of hire.

• Graduate of an American Veterinary Medical Association Accredited Veterinary Technology Program
• Achieved a passing score on the Veterinary Technician National Exam
• Two years’ experience in a companion, emergency or specialty veterinary hospital (preference to those in a zoo, wildlife or exotic hospital)
• Valid driver’s license, and Florida driver’s license required within 6 months

Special Qualifications Lion Country Safari is located in South Florida and the majority of procedures are performed in the field, which requires the Certified Veterinary Technician to load/unload vehicles with equipment on a regular basis.

• Willingness to work overtime and be available for emergency work
• Must be able to work weekends and holidays (facility is open 7 days a week 365 days a year)
• Willingness to work outdoors in the elements (heat, rain, etc)
• Ability to physically lift heavy objects alone, up to 50lbs
• Understands the risks inherent to working with wildlife and zoo animals
• Able to work well as part of team and individually with minimal supervision.