Job opportunities

Zoo Vet

Overview
The Zoo Veterinarian plays a crucial role in the health and welfare of the animals within the zoo. This position requires a dedicated professional who is passionate about wildlife and committed to providing high-quality veterinary care. Your role will be to manage and develop a small veterinary hospital, adapting to the needs of an evolving living collection.

Duties

• In collaboration with a veterinary colleague, assume responsibility for clinical care of the living collection at Drayton Manor Resort Zoo, liaising with the out of hours cover practice/s where possible, when not in attendance.
• Conduct comprehensive health assessments and examinations of zoo animals.
• Diagnose and treat medical conditions, injuries, and diseases in a variety of species.
• Perform surgical procedures as necessary, ensuring the highest standards of care.
• Collaborate with animal care staff to develop and implement health management plans.
• Maintain accurate medical records for all animals under veterinary care.
• Liaise with the Head of Zoo Operations (and where appropriate APHA) on all animal transfers
• Assume joint responsibility for liaising with the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons, the Veterinary Medicines Directorate, the Animal and Plant Health Agency etc. to ensure the zoo and onsite veterinary facilities meet all regulatory requirements and that policies and procedures are fully compliant.
• Responsibility for the cost-efficient use of the veterinary hospital, equipment, consumables, and veterinary medicines in line with the resorts financial policies and procedures.
• Participate in educational programmes for staff and visitors regarding animal health and welfare.
• Engage in research initiatives related to wildlife conservation and veterinary medicine.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant legislation and ethical standards concerning animal care.
• Interact with guests in a polite and professional manner at all times, ensuring guest safety and satisfaction are paramount.
• Handle first and second stage guest complaints regarding animals and the zoo, referring upwards to the Head of Zoo Operations in more complex or formal cases as appropriate.

Qualifications

Essential

• Member of the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons registered to work in the UK
• To hold or be working towards a further qualification in zoological medicine such as CertAVP (ZM)
• Full Drivers Licence
• Professional indemnity insurance
• Significant experience as a practicing Veterinary Surgeon
• Experience with zoo, wildlife, or exotic pet species.
• Member of the British Veterinary Zoological Society or equivalent body (e.g., EAZWV, AAV)
• In depth understanding of regulations pertaining to the management of animals in zoos
• Knowledge of small population management
• Understanding exotic animal nutrition
• Good standard of verbal and written communication
• Good IT skills (ability to work with Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook etc)
• Meticulous with good attention to detail

Desirable

• A compassionate approach towards animal care, demonstrating empathy for both animals and their needs.
• Ability to work flexible hours, including weekends or holidays as required by the needs of the zoo.
• First Aid at Work
• IOSH
• BASC Firearms course (or equivalent)
• Firearms licence
• OCQ (V) panels appropriate for export of zoo collection animals (hoof stock, small animals, and birds)
• Safe operation of standard veterinary equipment
• Use of ZIMS & Zootrition (training can be provided)

This role offers an exciting opportunity for a dedicated veterinarian to contribute significantly to animal health while promoting conservation efforts within a dynamic environment.

Job Type: Part-time

Expected hours: 20 per week