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Oregon Zoo - Veterinary Technician Preceptorship


Oregon Zoo's state-of-the-art Veterinary Medical Center opened in 2012. This 15,000-square-foot building is LEED Gold Certified and includes exam room, surgical suite, radiology room and in- house laboratory and necropsy room. It has all necessary equipment for basic and advanced anesthetic monitoring and diagnostic techniques, including rigid and flexible endoscopy, digital radiography and ultrasound. 

In addition, the Oregon Zoo Hospital is one of the few in the country that has an on-site CT scan. The zoo's endocrinology lab also offers on-site experience with animal welfare research and welfare-based care. The Oregon Zoo inspires visitors to learn about protecting endangered species and restoring native habitats and is the state's most popular paid attraction. The zoo’s roughly 320 employees welcome more than 1.5 million visitors each year. As part of the Metro family, the Oregon Zoo is committed to hiring and supporting staff who reflect the diversity of our communities, and to creating welcoming workplaces. We know diverse voices make the region better and help us fulfill our public mission. 

Veterinary Technician Preceptorship

The purpose of the veterinary technician student program is to provide a recent graduate (<1 year) or current student of an AVMA accredited programs with hands-on training as a veterinary technician in the field of zoological medicine. A full time, 40 hour, 12-week commitment will help to ensure that successful applicants can get the most benefit from this opportunity.

Goals 

  • Assist veterinary staff in all aspects of technical duties including, but not limited to: laboratory specimen testing and handling, general hospital upkeep, surgical preparation, nursing care, anesthesia and monitoring, health records maintenance, observation and medical treatment of animals, and daily care of hospitalized and quarantined animals. Students will be under continuous supervision by the staff veterinarians and technicians while completing these duties. There will also be opportunities for the student to observe husbandry from veterinary staff and seasoned professional zoo keepers.
  • Complete a research project and present findings to interested zoo staff. The subject and presentation is dependent on the student’s interest and may pertain to current cases, larger medical management subjects, or other relevant topics

If you’re interested in our program please review the application requirements and gather the items below and email your application to our email box at recruitment@oregonmetro.gov 

Make sure your application is complete, missing any part of these items below could result in an incomplete application and will not be moved forward in the recruitment process. 
 
Application Requirements: 

  • One-page letter of intent explaining your long-term career goals and interest in zoological medicine
  • Curriculum vitae or resume
  • Two letters of reference
  • Unofficial college academic transcript
  • Full-time, Monday – Friday, 7am – 3:30pm, Unpaid opportunity
Term Application Deadline Months
Spring January 1st March - May
Summer March 1st June - August
Fall June 1st September - November
Winter September 1st December - February


If you have any additional questions feel free to email our recruitment box at recruitment@oregonmetro.gov  for any questions regarding this preceptorship.

Lamarkus Gilliard |Internship Coordinator | Lamarkus.gilliard@oregonmetro.gov | 971-867-0226 | Oregon Zoo, 4001 SW Canyon Rd., Portland