Veterinary Technician

Company Description

Mississippi Aquarium showcases the diverse aquatic ecosystems of Mississippi, from the Gulf of Mexico to the Mississippi River and serene bayous. Located in Gulfport, MS, the Aquarium highlights the state’s natural beauty and interconnected water resources. Committed to education, conservation, and community, it offers visitors a unique blend of entertainment and learning. The Aquarium provides opportunities for individuals to experience the natural wonders of Mississippi while fostering a deeper appreciation for its aquatic environments.

Mississippi Aquarium is a 501c(3) non-profit organization and local leader in coastal conservation, education and community participation. The Aquarium operates without subsidies and every contribution supports animal care and health, education and conservation initiatives, aquatic research and future growth

Position Summary

The Veterinary Technician supports the Veterinary Services department in providing comprehensive medical care to Mississippi Aquarium’s diverse animal collection, including teleosts, elasmobranchs, marine mammals, terrestrial mammals, amphibians, reptiles, and birds, while also playing an active role in sea turtle rehabilitation efforts. This newly developed position adds a second veterinary technician to the veterinary team, joining two full-time veterinarians and a senior veterinary technician. The ideal candidate represents the Aquarium with professionalism and positivity, demonstrating enthusiasm and a strong commitment to excellence in animal care and welfare.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Provides medical treatments and performs daily evaluations of patients under the guidance of staff veterinarians.
• Operates and maintains all veterinary diagnostic and laboratory equipment within the veterinary hospital
• Performs laboratory diagnostic evaluation such as cytological and/or microbiological sample collection, hematology, parasitology, urinalysis and necropsy techniques.
• Helps with scheduling routine and emergent animal examinations
• Assists in maintaining the veterinary pharmacy, ensuring compliance with controlled substances regulations, removing and replacing expired medications and supplies. 
• Collect diagnostic samples on all collection animals at direction of veterinarian
• Prepare and ship out diagnostic samples to external laboratories as needed
• Prepare for and assist in large medical and surgical procedures
• Assist with and/or independently perform necropsy examinations
• Maintains a high level of competency in the operation of all diagnostic equipment including digital radiography, ultrasound, and endoscopy
• Prepare and dispense prescriptions
• Maintain accurate animal medical records promptly
• Input data entry of test sample results from external diagnostic laboratories into medical records 
• Process research samples as needed, including cleaning/organizing the specimen refrigerators and ultralow (-80) freezer
• Maintain standard operating procedures (SOPs) for veterinary department
• Mentor and assist with training of volunteers, interns, and externs that participate in and support daily clinical activities.
• Collaborate with all MSAQ departments as needed
• Work with animal care teams on behavior training of animals for medical procedures.
• Attend professional meetings and conferences for continuing education and represent MSAQ by giving presentations
• Other duties as assigned

Required Qualifications and Skills

• Graduate of an AVMA accredited veterinary technology program
• Credentialed veterinary technician (CVT/RVT/LVT). Out-of-state candidates must obtain Mississippi licensure within one year of employment at MSAQ.
• 1-2 years of veterinary technician experience in a wildlife, zoo, and/or aquarium setting. Alternately, at least 3 years as a veterinary technician in another setting. 
• Knowledge in day-to-day function and in a veterinary hospital, with a knowledge base of veterinary nursing
• Experience with laboratory diagnostics
• Experience with aquatic species and/or exotic and zoo species in any capacity
• Proficient in Microsoft Office suite (Excel, word, power point etc.)
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to take initiative and work independently in the absence of supervision 
• Follow written standard operating procedures and verbal directives
• Able to work indoors and outdoors in all weather conditions
• Flexible schedule to allow for working various shifts/hours including some nights, weekends, and holidays, as well as being on call to respond to emergencies

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with using Tracks Software and VetRocket/RocketPACS
• Familiar with monitoring non-domestic animal patients under anesthesia/sedation
• Experience performing necropsy examinations
• Knowledge of medical procedures and rehabilitation of sea turtles preferred
• Interest in rehabilitation of animals and participation in research/scientific studies 

Physical Requirements

• Lift, push, and pull 50 pounds
• Walk/stand for long periods of time 
• Maneuver safely on uneven terrain or in tight spaces
• Safely climb ladders when needed
• Squat, bend, kneel, twist and reach
• Push and pull larger equipment
• Work outdoors in all weather conditions and adapt to changing weather

Note: This position will involve exposure to inclement weather, dust, potentially dangerous and unpredictable animals, potentially dangerous machinery, restraint devices, hazardous chemicals and/or drugs, and zoonotic diseases. Occasional use of protective clothing or equipment will be required. For example, googles, mask, gloves, gowns, and other items as necessary.

This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice. 

**Will be required to provide 2 written letters of recommendation if asked to interview**