Temporary Keeper, Veterinary Services (Chicago Zoological Society)

The Temporary Keeper in Veterinary Services contributes to the success of the Chicago Zoological Society by providing experienced technical and medical support to the veterinary staff for the care provided to the animal collection and hospitalized patients. This position also assists the Veterinary Services Department and the Chicago Zoological Society in creating innovations and excellence in conservation leadership and animal welfare by enabling the Veterinary Services Department to meet the most current standards for specialized veterinary care.

Responsibilities:
Under direction of Lead Keeper/Assistant Lead Keeper: create and maintain accurate medical record documentation that is required during an animal procedure or prescription request; assist with accurately dispensing and recording medical prescriptions. Administer medications and vaccinations as directed by veterinarians; assist in preparation for surgical procedures and assist veterinary staff in performing surgical procedures; assist in performing cleaning, disinfection and sterilization of the surgical suite, surgical instruments, and equipment; communicate regularly with hospital supervisors/managers regarding animal medical and husbandry management including, but not limited to, medical procedures, nutrition, training, and behavioral enrichment; assist in maintaining drug and medical supplies and inventory maintenance; maintain current pharmacy, treatment areas, animal, and equipment inventory as directed; assist in the operation and maintenance of radiographic equipment; conduct diagnostic radiography, including positioning of the patient, exposure, and development of radiographs; and maintain and monitor anesthesia, including the operation of inhalation anesthesia equipment and patient monitoring devices.

Requirements:
Graduation from an AVMA certified school of veterinary technology preferred or equivalent combination of training and/or experience required. Animal care facility, farm, or equivalent experience required. Experience working with zoo/exotic animals and animal keeper experience is desired. Relevant experience working at the Chicago Zoological Society a plus (includes CZS employment, volunteer, and/or intern experience).

Technical skills are required including proficient restraint, sample collection techniques, patient monitoring, and intravenous catheter placement with domestic animals required and preferable with exotic animals. Ability to learn infection control and quarantine practices. Current knowledge of veterinary medical practices, animal anatomy and physiology, basic pharmacology and principles of anesthesia required. Knowledge of natural history, principles of animal behavior and husbandry preferred. Must be able to work with animals safely. Knowledge of sterile techniques and surgical equipment cleaning and sterilization required. Under direction must be able to deliver various medications through standard practices. Must demonstrate proficiency in perceiving and acting upon relevant changes in animal behaviors and conditions. Must possess a genuine interest in animals and their welfare.

Solid communication and interpersonal skills required. Must be capable of dealing with emergencies calmly and efficiently. Good decision-making skills and sound judgment required. Demonstrated ability to take initiative in identifying and solving problems, recommending ideas and viable suggestions to improve operations. Must work cooperatively and follow appropriate communication channels. Must be able to maintain confidentiality with regard to animal matters, personnel and other privileged information. Experience and/or ability to work and interact effectively with a diverse, multicultural audience. Multi-lingual ability and Spanish fluency a plus.

Must understand, or quickly acquire understanding of how department interfaces with Society-wide operations. Must possess or acquire knowledge of Chicago Zoological Society, the mission, policies and procedures, and incorporate into daily job responsibilities. Must develop proficiency in routines of assigned areas and specialized procedures as directed and demonstrate the ability to accurately perform job duties. Must be reliable.

Valid driver's license required. Illinois residents must possess a valid Illinois license within 90 days of hire. Valid out-of-state license required for out-of-state residents. Must be able to read, write, and speak the English language fluently. Spanish Fluency a plus but not required.