Lead Veterinarian

Overview

The Lead Veterinarian is responsible for the comprehensive medical and surgical care of the Museum’s live animal collections (program and exhibit) to ensure compliance with AZA and AAZV current standards and guidelines. The position emphasizes integrating skilled volunteers to enhance results. The candidate must be a practicing veterinarian licensed in the state of Virginia prior to the start date. This position reports directly to the Senior Director, Living Exhibits.

• DVM or VMD degree from an AVMA accredited university or school of veterinary medicine.
• Must possess and maintain all necessary licenses, permits, certificates and credentials required by the laws of the United States, the State of Virginia and all other appropriate governmental agencies prior to start date (including any certification and credentials required).
• Must be able to obtain and maintain a DEA controlled substance registration certificate within 3 months of hire.
• Must be able to obtain and maintain a national USDA/APHIS Category II Accreditation within 3 months of hire.
• Minimum of 2 years of professional experience practicing veterinary medicine with zoological, exotic companion animal, and/or wildlife species.
• Demonstrated experience in captive management and health monitoring of zoological species.
• Thorough knowledge of approved animal husbandry techniques.
• Familiarity with AZA accreditation standards and related policies.
• Trained in chemical immobilization techniques.
• Proof of rabies vaccination and maintain appropriate titers.
• Willingness to participate in scientific studies and clinical projects.
• Must hold and maintain independent insurance and provide proof to the Museum.
• Strong leadership skills; previous experience supervising/mentoring staff, volunteers and/or interns.
• Above average ability to organize, manage time, and set priorities while meeting deadlines.
• Effective problem analysis and resolution skills; ability to shift priorities to meet needs.
• Superior verbal and written communication skills.
• Intermediate level computer knowledge and Microsoft Office skills.
• Must be able to remain calm, make sound decisions and provide clear direction in crisis situations.
• Professional demeanor displays sound judgement, discernment, integrity, and confidentiality and discretion.
• Must have a valid driver’s license.

• Be a positive, enthusiastic representative of the Virginia Living Museum.
• Manages a comprehensive veterinary care program for the Museum’s live animal collections (program and exhibit) based on current AZA Standards and the Guidelines for Zoo and Aquarium Veterinary Medical Programs and Veterinary Hospitals; ensure that the Museum’s program emphasizes preventative disease control measures. This includes a preventative medicine program, annual examination schedule, quarantine protocol, pre-shipment requirements, disease surveillance, pathology, disinfection of animal enclosures and equipment, and controlled drug protocols.
• Supervises and trains staff and volunteers to assist with veterinary care.
• Provides comprehensive medical and surgical care to all collection animals. Responds and addresses all animal health concerns.
• Provides emergency on-call coverage for the animal collection seven days per week via phone and/or on-site visits or delegates coverage to assigned on-call veterinarian(s).
• Performs gross necropsies and interprets histopathological results and relays these results to Animal Welfare staff. Reviews all mortalities and collaborates with Animal Welfare staff to prevent future mortalities.
• Conducts all in-house laboratory analysis including chemistry, cytology, fecal analysis, hematology, urinalysis, and proper sample handling and processing for outside laboratories and research collaborations.
• Maintains medical records for all collection animals using Species 360. Creates and maintains medical record including entry of all diagnostic sample results, anesthesia records, gross necropsy records, histopathology reports, veterinary specialist consult reports, and keeper communication.
• Follows and ensures all veterinary volunteers adhere to all museum safety and security policies…