Primate-Jobs
Positions Available

CHIMPANZEE VETERINARY TECHNICIAN I-II

Hiring Organization:
Chimp Haven, Inc.

Date Posted:
2009-03-26

Position Description:
Position Opened: 3/26/09
Closed: When filled

Shift: Normally days. Night and weekend work may be required.

Primary Function:
Provide veterinary care to sanctuary chimpanzees under the direction of the Veterinarian.


Duties and Responsibilities
• Assist veterinarian with physical exams, treatments and procedures, including the collection of samples for testing.
• Set up for routine procedures as well as for emergency surgeries.
• Assist during surgical procedures.
• Observe chimpanzees for detection of symptoms associated with disease.
• Dispense medications to chimpanzees under direction of veterinarian.
• Order, stock and maintain accurate inventory of veterinary supplies and medications.
• Record observations, medications given, and assist in maintaining chimpanzee medical records.
• Maintain medical equipment, including calibrations and ordering replacement parts.
• Sedate and recover chimpanzees.
• Coordinate laboratory tests, arrange for pick up and delivery and follow through on results.
• Work with behavioral staff to train chimpanzees to cooperate during medical procedures.
• Assist behavioral or husbandry staff as required, including participation in colony management decisions.
• Available to work some weekends and to be called in during emergencies.
• Clean and sterilize equipment in a timely manner.
• Maintain cleanliness and sterility of veterinary clinics.
• Set up and assist with necropsies.
• Flexibility and a positive attitude a must.
• Experience with Excel beneficial.
• Perform related duties as required.

Qualifications/Experience:
Education and Experience Required:
• Associates degree or Veterinary Technical degree required
• Four years veterinary technician experience required.
• One year experience working with nonhuman primates required.

Education and Experience Preferred:
• Six years veterinary technician experience preferred. A bachelor’s degree in related area and four years experience as a veterinary technician can be substituted for the above education/experience requirement.
• One year experience working with chimpanzees preferred. Skilled in voluntary injections and darting. Experience with general anesthesia and sedations.

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 50 lbs for short distances.
• 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, 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.

Salary/funding:
Send cover letter, salary requirement and resume to: careers@chimphaven.org or fax resume to Human Resources Department @ 318-925-5600.

Contact Information:
Human Resources
13600 Chimpanzee Place
Keithville, LA 71047
USA

Telephone Number:
318-925-9575

Fax Number:
318-925-5600

Website:
http://www.chimphaven.org

E-mail Address:
careers@chimphaven.org