What are the responsibilities and job description for the Veterinary Technician position at Dolphin Research Center?
Company Description
Dolphin Research Center is a not-for-profit education and research facility located in the Florida Keys on Grassy Key, providing a natural environment for dolphins and sea lions. Since 1984, the center has been committed to advancing marine mammal care through public education programs, non-invasive research, and global collaboration within the marine mammal care community. The center fosters an understanding of marine ecosystems and environmental conservation while offering opportunities to work closely with marine animals in a unique setting.
Clinical Operations
Coordinate daily veterinary medical workflow and treatment support.
Provide advanced technical support during medical and surgical procedures.
Prepare for and assist with examinations, procedures, diagnostics, and emergency response.
Ensure medical areas are organized, prepared, and fully stocked.
Maintain high standards of patient care and animal welfare.
Prepare, dispense, and accurately document prescriptions as directed by the veterinarian.
Collect and process diagnostics samples on animals at the direction of the veterinarian.
Input data entry of results from external laboratories into medical record.
Prepare and assist with medical or surgical procedures.
Perform laboratory diagnostic evaluation such as cytological and/or microbiological sample collection, hematology, urinalysis, and necropsy techinques.
Respond to and assist with manatee rescues, and field medical procedures.
Assist with water quality monitoring in accordance with USDA standards.
Track expiration dates and ensure proper storage of medications and supplies.
Hospital Licensing & Compliance
Support compliance with state animal hospital licensing requirements.
Maintain organized medical records in accordance with regulatory standards.
Assist in preparation for inspections and audits.
Medical Equipment Oversight and Medical Procurement
Serve as the primary liaison with diagnostics laboratories, equipment vendors and service providers.
Oversee operations, maintenance, calibration, and troubleshooting of in-house laboratory equipment.
Establish and maintain laboratory quality control protocols.
Ensure proper sample collection, labeling, processing, storage and shipment.
Support laboratory supply inventory and reordering systems.
Maintain controlled substance logs, and ensure regulatory compliance.
Required:
Graduate of an AVMA accreditied veterinary technology program and credentialed veterinary technician (CVT, RVT, LVT), or equivalent experience.
1-2 years veterinary technician experience in a wildlife, zoo, and/or aquarium setting.
Alternatively at least 3 years as a veterinary technician in another setting.
Experience with laboratory diagnostics and knowledge in day-to-day function of a veterinary hospital with a strong knowledge base of veterinary nursing.
Experience with aquatic species and/or exotic and zoo species in any capacity.
Strong organizational skills.
Clear communication and ability to collaborate seamlessly with a team.
Ability to maintain professionalism and discretion.
Adaptability in fast paced medical environments.
Ability to lift 50 lbs and work outdoors in varying weather conditions.
Physical Requirements:
Ability to work in outdoor marine environments.
Comfortable working in and around water and in heat.
Capable of bending, lifting, and prolonged standing.
Work Schedule:
Full-time position.
Will be required to work weekends days and some holidays.
Typical shifts will be 10 hours, 4 days a week but flexibility is needed to provide coverage when others are out and to assist if there is a critical case or major medical procedure.