Hospital Assistant (Part-Time)

The Hattiesburg Zoo is currently seeking an exceptional, enthusiastic, and team-oriented hospital assistant to join our team. We strive to provide exceptional and progressive medical care to the animal collection and further the field of zoological medicine through conservation and research. The zoo, opened in 1950 and AZA accredited, is located on 12 acres in Kamper Park with plans to expand to 25 acres. Named Best Travel Attraction of the Year by the Mississippi Tourism Association in 2017, it is also listed as the #1 thing to do in Hattiesburg by TripAdvisor.

About the role

The veterinary team consists of one full-time veterinarian and one certified veterinary technician. We are working diligently to improve and grow our veterinary program as our zoo continues to expand.

Responsibilities

• Maintain a clean and sterile environment within veterinary facilities while ensuring safe use of chemicals
• Assist with record-keeping tasks
• Ensure veterinary facilities are adequately stocked and prepared for routine procedures
• Aid in the preparation of in-house diagnostics and laboratory samples for external testing
• Support routine maintenance of veterinary equipment
• Assist in the setup and breakdown of veterinary procedures
• Collaborate with the veterinary technician and veterinarian during procedures
• Recognize and report any unusual conditions or abnormal behaviors to veterinary staff and monitor animals for signs of distress or disease
• Participate in sustainable initiatives developed for veterinary facilities
• Perform additional duties as assigned

Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent; actively pursuing a degree in a relevant field related to veterinary medicine or one year of experience in a zoo, veterinary clinic, or similar profession
• Valid Driver’s License and eligibility for driving while conducting company business
• Current negative TB test
• Ability to work outdoors in various weather conditions and lift heavy objects (up to 50 pounds)

Skills

• Strong work ethic, self-motivated, and committed to the vision of the Hattiesburg Zoo
• Ability to comprehend and follow both oral and written instructions
• Capable of performing moderately physically demanding work, including lifting or carrying animals, stooping, kneeling, crouching, or crawling
• Capacity to establish and maintain effective relationships with colleagues and the public
• Friendly demeanor towards the public and courteous to visitors
• Basic proficiency in Microsoft Office and Google Workspace software

Schedule

Maximum 24 hours per week on a schedule requiring a mix of weekdays, weekends, evenings, and holidays as required.