Veterinary Extern (2026-2027 school year)

Denver Zoo Conservation Alliance (DZCA) honors our animals, staff, and guests by conducting ourselves at the highest level of integrity through our Core Actions -- Inspire Awe: Safety, Care, Connect and by embracing our Core Values of: Welcoming, Curious, United, Courageous, and Transformative in all that we do.

DZCA offers a 4-week zoological medicine externship for 4th-year veterinary students for the 2026-2027 school year. This externship provides an opportunity to gain hands-on experience with the DZCA Wildlife Health team, which includes Clinical Veterinarians, a Veterinary Pathologist, a Nutritionist, and Registered Veterinary Technicians. Externs will receive exposure to the diagnosis and treatment of captive wildlife in a diverse zoological collection.

Responsibilities and Learning Opportunities

• Participate in the diagnosis and treatment of a variety of species, including hematology, cytology, anesthesia, radiology, pathology, internal medicine, and surgery.
• Engage in all aspects of zoological medicine: physical exams, triage, diagnostics, treatments, medical records, and animal care.
• Attend rounds, procedures in the hospital, and procedures on zoo grounds.

Qualifications

To be considered for this externship, candidates must meet the following requirements:

• Submit a cover letter explaining your interest in the externship and relevant experience.
• Submit a curriculum vitae (CV).
• Submit two letters of recommendation.
• Be in your fourth year of veterinary school at the time of the planned externship.
• Have effective communication skills (written, oral, and listening).

Health Requirements (if accepted)

• Proof of a negative TB test within the past 12 months.
• Proof of tetanus vaccination within the past 7 years.
• Proof of rabies vaccination or titer within 2 years.

Documentation must be submitted before the externship start date.

Expectations

• Receive constructive feedback and implement it effectively.
• Work in a fast-paced, team environment, as well as independently without supervision.
• Stay calm and perform under pressure in demanding situations.

Physical Requirements

This externship involves significant physical activity, including:

• Walking, standing, lifting, crouching, pushing, pulling, and carrying items.
• Must be able to lift between 25-50 pounds and work dexterously with hands and arms.
• The extern will have regular interaction with staff, volunteers, other departments, and zoo guests, and will be exposed to all weather conditions, chemicals, and zoonotic diseases.

Environment

• The noise level in the environment is typically moderate.
• Appropriate clothing, footwear, and usage of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) are required.

Application deadline: October 31, 2025. Review of applications will begin immediately. DZCA reserves the right to close the position before this date.

Denver Zoo Conservation Alliance is an Equal Opportunity Employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected status, or any other characteristic protected by law.