Associate Veterinarian - Full Time
Position: Full-time Associate Veterinarian
Reports to: Director of Animal Care
Supervises: Veterinary Technicians
Coordinates with: Animal and Education departments
Summary of Responsibilities: Elmwood Park Zoo is getting ready to celebrate its 100th Anniversary with an ambitious master plan that includes the construction of a 17,000 square foot public-facing Animal Health Center. The Animal Health Center is the kickoff project for our Master Plan with an anticipated completion date of Fall 2024. The Animal Health Center will be situated inside the Zoo’s Welcome Center, and zoo visitors will have viewing opportunities into the animal treatment room and commissary. The zoo is looking to add a full-time Associate Veterinarian to the team to help manage the growing animal collection, and to expand opportunities for veterinary student training within the new Animal Health Center.
- As essential personnel, animal department staff are expected to be available as per business needs which include weekends, holidays, evenings and in inclement weather
- Foster an appreciation of wildlife and their habitats that will inspire active participation in conservation
- Assist management in ensuring safety, cleanliness, and efficiency in all areas of the operation of the Zoo
- Follow and adhere to all policies and procedures and safety protocols for the department and the Zoo
- Use proper radio etiquette and adhere to proper uniform attire at all times
- Assist in coordinating and advancing the Preventative Health Program including performing routine exams, disease surveillance, parasite control and contraception to zoo residents
- Diagnose and treat sick or injured animals and provide emergency care, surgery, and pathology services
- Provide oversight to animal nutrition, scientific research, pest control, hazardous chemicals and welfare programs
- Maintain accurate medical records using the Zoo Information Management System (ZIMS)
- Maintain accurate records for controlled substances in compliance with DEA regulations
- Communicate with animal department staff on exam and diagnostic testing results
- Assist with the design and implementation of training program for veterinary and veterinary technical students
- Maintain and expand collaborations with local and state universities
- Maintain administrative supervision and oversight of the Veterinary Department operating budget
- Provide regular department updates to the EPZ Board of Directors
- Other duties as assigned
- Work assignments are subject to the hazards inherent in caring for wild animals in captivity and may include:
- Interaction with a variety of domestic and wild or potentially dangerous animals; animal odors, animal body fluids, cleaning materials, disinfectants, etc.
- Inclement weather conditions
- Ability to develop and maintain effective working relationships with EPZ staff and volunteers
- Ability to work irregular hours as needed including nights, holidays and weekends
- Ability to work special events and other functions as required
Education and Experience:
- Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine from an accredited university
- At least 3 years of full-time experience within a zoological institution with experience managing medical staff, AZA facility experience preferred
- ACZM board certification or eligibility within 24 months preferred
Core Competencies:
- Proficiency in anesthesia induction and maintenance in a wide variety of species including the use of remote immobilization equipment
- Familiarity with wide variety of dental, medical, and surgical equipment to facilitate preventative and emergency care
- Ability to perform thorough gross necropsy examinations and submit tissues for histopathology
- Excellent communication skills to maintain solid, positive and productive working relationships with Veterinary, Animal and Education Departments, along with other departments throughout the zoo
- Must be licensed or eligible for licensure to practice veterinary medicine in Pennsylvania within 6 months of hire
- Must be eligible to obtain a USDA APHIS category II accreditation within 6 months of hire
- Must have negative TB test
- Must be vaccinated against rabies
- Capable of performing strenuous and/or heavy physical labor
- Able to work outside in all weather conditions
- Must have a valid driver’s license
Pay: Starting at $80K
Identification: Two forms of official valid identification are required. Ability to pass background and child abuse clearances
