Staff Veterinarian

Houston Zoo • Houston, TX

100d

About The Position

The Staff Veterinarian is responsible for providing clinical care for a diverse collection of more than 850 species of mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, fish, and invertebrates. This position works closely with other stakeholders to ensure the highest quality of animal care for the zoo’s specimens. This position reports directly to the Vice President of Animal Operations. Our Mission: Houston Zoo connects communities with animals, inspiring action to save wildlife. Our Vision: Houston Zoo will be a leader in the global movement to save wildlife.

Requirements

• DVM or VMD or equivalent from an accredited School of Veterinary Medicine.
• Two years of exotic animal medicine experience is required, preferably in a zoological facility.
• License to practice or ability to obtain a license to practice veterinary medicine in the State of Texas.
• Obtain DEA license to use Class 2 narcotics.
• USDA accreditation to certify health for interstate and international transport of animals.
• Must obtain a valid Texas driver’s license.
• Ability to work weekends, holidays, and occasional after-hour assignments.

Nice To Haves

• Preference will be given to candidates that are ACZM Board Certified.

Responsibilities

• Works with animal care staff and veterinary team to implement a preventive medicine program that includes quarantine, routine exams, disease monitoring, parasite control, vaccinations, tuberculin testing, dental prophylaxis, and periodic nutrition reviews.
• Diagnoses illness and injury in collection animals and provides appropriate treatment and therapies.
• Collaborates with colleagues and local veterinary and medical specialists on clinical cases as needed.
• Participates in dialogue with area curators and supervisors about animal care and welfare, nutrition, breeding, husbandry, and housing.
• Performs gross necropsies and collect samples for histopathology, prepare necropsy reports and analyze findings, formulate recommendations for preventive measures.
• Prepares and maintains required records, ensuring accuracy and professionalism.
• Supports AZA conservation programs and other research efforts by collecting samples and by gathering and submitting data as appropriate.
• Participates in local and international in situ conservation programs, including the USFWS Recovery and Reintroduction Programs for the critically endangered Attwater’s prairie chicken and Houston toad, sea turtle rehabilitation, and an ongoing elephant herpes virus research program with Baylor College of Medicine.
• May conduct or participate in research projects into the husbandry, breeding, welfare, behavior, or conservation of both captive and wild populations of animals.
• Participates in maintaining standards and regulations of AZA, AAZV, USDA, OSHA, and other regulatory agencies and associations as they apply to zoological institutions and veterinary programs/facilities.
• Ensures compliance with local, state, and federal laws and regulations relating to animal care, transport, treatment, and the handling of controlled substances.
• Participates in AAZV and other professional organizations and forums; remain current on CEU requirements.
• Prepares reports and presentations for publication or delivery at both professional and public forums.
• Participates in training and mentoring programs for senior students, summer veterinary interns, colleagues, and other visiting professionals.
• May directly supervise staff including recruitment, selection, development, evaluation, and performance management of direct reports.
• Contributes to saving animals in the wild through: reduction of waste, water and energy use and inspiring guests and staff to take wildlife protection actions.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Benefits

• Medical and Prescription Drug
• Vision
• Dental
• Basic Life AD&D (100% Employer Paid)
• Short Term Disability (100% Employer Paid)
• Long Term Disability (100% Employer Paid)
• Supplemental Life
• Flexible Spending Account / Health Savings Account
• 401k, with employer match
• Free Zoo Membership
• Free Guest Passes
• Discounts on Food, Merchandise, Attractions, Admission and Programs
• Free parking

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: Bachelor's degree
• Number of Employees: 501-1,000 employees