Veterinary Technician Student Externship (Jan - May 2027)

Program Description

The technician externship program at Texas State Aquarium is designed to introduce veterinary technician students to all aspects of aquatic animal medicine. Externships are offered from January to May of each year. Students should plan to spend 3-6 weeks at the Texas State Aquarium. The number of available positions will depend on the externship length for each student that year.

About the Animal Health Department

Veterinary tech externs will work closely with the Texas State Aquarium's veterinary staff, which includes a Director of Animal Health, an Associate Veterinarian, and two licensed veterinary technicians. The Texas State Aquarium, located on the Corpus Christi waterfront, is an AZA-accredited facility that focuses on species found in the Gulf and Caribbean Sea. The animal collection consists largely of aquatic species but also includes terrestrial birds, reptiles, amphibians, and a few terrestrial mammals. The Wildlife Rescue Center operated by the aquarium serves to rehabilitate mostly sea turtles and on occasion marine mammals.

Schedule

The extern's schedule will generally be Monday through Friday, 8a-5p, but there may be times when procedures will be scheduled outside of these hours. Students spending 4+ weeks will be allowed to shadow other husbandry departments and be required to give a 30-minute PowerPoint presentation on the topic of their choice.

Qualifications

• Currently enrolled in an AVMA-accredited veterinary technician/technology program at the time of stay at the Texas State Aquarium
• Preference given to those with previous experience in exotic, zoo, aquatic, or wildlife rehabilitation medicine, and/or those interested in pursuing a related field post-graduation

Application Requirements

• Online application
• Curriculum vitae/resume
• Letter of intent reflecting the applicant's externship goals, future career goals, and any prior zoo/aquatic/exotic experience
• 1 reference
• 3 sets of available dates in order of preference during the period between Jan–May 2027

Additional Details

• Externship applications accepted on a rolling basis until slots are filled
• Qualified applicants scheduled based on extern's schedule and staff availability
• Parking at the aquarium is provided
• Positions available from January to May 2027
• For additional questions or inquiries, email vet@txstateaq.org