Veterinary Technician Externship at John Ball Zoo in Grand Rapids, MI

Externship Block Availability: January - March

                                                September - November 

                                                April - May: *With limited to no availability* 

                                                Jun-August, Dec: *NOT available* 

Your application must include:

• Resume or curriculum vitae
• Two (2) letters of recommendation
• Completed application questions

Internship Overview:

The John Ball Zoo (JBZ) provides an exciting opportunity for veterinary technician students, currently in accredited programs completing their final internships/externships, to gain experience in clinical medicine with zoological species. John Ball Zoo, located in the heart of Grand Rapids, Michigan, is an AZA accredited facility. The animal collection covers a broad range of species, from aquatic invertebrates and fish to large felids and primates.

Veterinary technician externs will work closely with the JBZ veterinary team, which consists of two full-time veterinarians, two licensed veterinary technicians, and a hospital zookeeper, in the medical management of all animals located at the zoo. Students will observe and assist with clinical cases, treatments, immobilizations, surgeries, necropsies, and medical record keeping. To appreciate all areas of zoological medicine, students will also have opportunities to work with the zoo's animal care, nutrition, and behavior and husbandry teams.

Responsibilities & Projects:

• Participate in daily morning meetings to go over daily notes and review and revise each day
• Accompany veterinarians on weekly rounds to discuss medical management of active cases
• Veterinary technician externs will observe and participate in diagnostic and treatment plans and anesthetic procedures.
• Shadow and participate in:
• Daily animal care with the animal care team
• Diet preparation in the commissary
• Behavior and daily animal trainings with the behavior and enrichment coordinator
• Complete a project to present at the end of the externship on a subject of the supervisors and students choosing
• Other projects as assigned

Qualifications:

• Field of Interest: Sincere interest in a veterinary technician career at a zoo, aquarium, wildlife, or conservation organization

Skills/Characteristics:

• At least 18 years old
• Ability to work well independently and as a team
• Ability to communicate openly and professionally
• Willingness to ask questions and collaborate
• Must have a strong work ethic and initiative
• Ability to understand and adhere to safety policies and procedures
• Must enjoy good food (particularly sushi, though not required)

Requirements/Work Environment:

• TB test must be up to date within 6 months of externship start date
• Ability to lift objects of 40 pounds or more as well as bend, crouch, squat and carry equipment.
• Will work in various environments both inside and outside and will be exposed to various weather; pollen, mold, dust, dirt, hay, straw, and other airborne contaminants; and temperature variations
• Must be able to work near exotic and domestic animals and tolerate exposure to animal dander, animal wastes, and other zoonotic contaminants
• Must be able to tolerate exposure to anti-bacterial, disinfectants and other cleaning compounds
• Must be able to wear all required protective clothing and equipment

Time & Compensation:

• Length is dependent on school requirements, though most are 3-4 weeks
• Students will work Monday-Friday from 8a-4:30p, but may be asked to stay late for critical cases
• This is an unpaid position. Transportation and housing are the responsibility of the student

Application Questions - Required to be answered in Application

• What are your personal and professional goals and how does this program help you achieve them? Why choose a zoo?
• What experience do you have with exotic species and veterinary medicine overall thus far?