Veterinary Technician
National Aquarium is seeking a full-time licensed veterinary technician to join the Animal Care and Welfare Team, providing support for our diverse collection (invertebrates, amphibians, fish, elasmobranchs, reptiles, birds, and mammals) and rescue animals (seals and sea turtles) under veterinarian direction.
About the National Aquarium
Established in 1981, the National Aquarium in Baltimore, Maryland, is a nonprofit organization whose mission is to connect people with nature to inspire compassion and care for our ocean planet. The Aquarium’s award-winning habitats are home to thousands of animals representing hundreds of species. We are accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) and exceed industry standards in all aspects of animal care and welfare. More than 1.2 million people visit annually, and we reach far more through science-based education programs and hands-on field conservation work.
Responsibilities
- Perform daily medical treatments as instructed by the veterinarians.
- Prepare medications, including accurate dose calculations and prescription filling.
- Perform phlebotomy on collection animals.
- Perform or assist in necropsies.
- Assist veterinarians in surgical procedures, including anesthesia administration, monitoring, and surgical equipment setup.
- Respond to emergency situations during or after hours.
- Update computerized medical records, including laboratory submissions.
- Maintain instruments and equipment.
- Perform laboratory procedures such as blood analysis, CBC, serum/plasma prep, parasitology, urinalysis, and microbiology.
- Provide feedback to veterinarians regarding clinical cases.
- Instruct veterinary preceptors and volunteers as needed.
- Support the Aquarium’s mission and adhere to all organizational and departmental policies.
- Perform clinical radiology for exotic animals, including technique chart adjustments and positioning improvisation.
- Apply general veterinary technician principles to novel animals and situations using primary experience, professional consultation, and published references.
- Manage medical department protocols (e.g., Quarantine, Controlled Drugs), clinical laboratory practices, ordering procedures, and equipment operation/maintenance.
- Become knowledgeable about aquatic and exotic animal anatomy and apply standard clinical procedures in an aquarium setting.
- Make decisions in the best interest of the collection, including quick decision-making in emergencies.
- Evaluate situations to determine when to act independently or seek veterinarian consultation.
Requirements
- At least 1-3 years of veterinary technician experience in comparable practice (AZA or exotics/wildlife experience preferred).
- Registered through a state board as a Veterinary Technician or ability to become registered within 6 months of employment.
- Obtain Maryland Veterinary Technician license within 6 months of employment.
- Ability to learn and effectively use proprietary Aquarium software (Tracks).
- Flexible schedule, including weekend/evening hours and on-call availability.
- Ability to perform duties involving extended walking/standing, lifting, climbing ladders, and working closely with others.
- Exceptional communication skills and ability to work with diverse husbandry staff.
- Valid motor vehicle operator’s license, acceptable driving record, and ability to drive a variety of vehicles (cars, vans/trucks).
Benefits
- Four weeks paid time off.
- Six paid floating holidays.
- Up to four weeks of paid family leave and conservation day leave.
- Health care eligibility (single and family) after 30 days of full-time work.
- 401(k) plan participation with employer match.
- Family membership package and Aquarium tickets.
Pay
Hourly range: $18.27–$24.87, with overtime eligibility for hours worked over 40 in a week. Premium pay for recognized holidays and shift differential for overnight shifts.
Schedule
Full-time, on-site role with a flexible schedule including weekends, evenings, and on-call availability.