Job Summary
Provide medical care for chimpanzees. Most duties performed under general supervision.
Duties and Responsibilities
Provide assistance to veterinary technicians and veterinarians.
Observe chimpanzees for detection of symptoms associated with disease.
Dispense medication to chimpanzees under direction of veterinarian.
Maintain med bottles, trays and medical log books.
Prepare med bottles for AM and PM distributions.
Record observations and may maintain chimpanzee medical records.
May recover chimpanzees.
Assist veterinarian with physical exams, treatments and procedures, including the collection of samples for testing as needed.
Assist during necropsies, including operation of equipment.
Maintain cleanliness of pharmacy.
Stock veterinary supplies as instructed by the veterinary technician.
Work with veterinary technicians to maintain medical and surgical equipment.
Work with veterinary technicians to coordinate laboratory tests.
Work with behavioral staff to train chimpanzees to cooperate during medical procedures.
Assist behavioral or husbandry staff as required.
Assist with training of new employees
May train other animal care staff on procedures.
May supervise volunteers.
Perform related duties as required.
Education and Experience Required
Assistant Veterinary Technician requires a high school diploma or equivalent. A combination of related education and experience may be considered.
Education Preferred: A veterinary technical degree is preferred.
Experience and skills required: Applicants must have an aptitude for the care and well-being of animals.
Experience and skills preferred: Prior veterinary technician experience preferred. One year working with nonhuman primates preferred.
Other requirements and working conditions
This work will require bending, carrying, kneeling, lifting, listening, pulling, pushing, reading, speaking, squatting, standing, stooping, stretching, walking, watching and writing.
Must be able to routinely lift and carry 165 lbs. for short distances. Must be able to assist in lifting chimpanzees (up to 198 lbs.).
Duties may require driving Chimp Haven vehicles, and must have a valid driver’s license and meet Chimp Haven’s motor vehicle operating standards.
Work may involve considerable outdoor work in various weather conditions.
Potential exists for animal bites and scratches.
Potential exposure to unpleasant odors, animal wastes, animal tissues and body fluids, toxic chemicals, zoonotic diseases (tuberculosis, shigella etc.), infectious agents (Hepatitis B, C, HIV, etc.).
Weekend work is necessary. Current schedules available-Sunday-Thursday and Tuesday-Saturday. Holiday and night work may be necessary.
Participation in a medical monitoring and surveillance program that includes hepatitis B and other inoculations is required.
Safety training, equipment, clothing and supplies will be provided.