Zoo Operations - Animal Care, Research & Conservation

Shifts: 8 hours per week, 8 hours per day. May include weekends, evenings and holidays. 

About Assiniboine Park Zoo

Home to more than 150 animal species, the Assiniboine Park Zoo is a place for exploration and family fun in every season. Located in beautiful Assiniboine Park, the Zoo has been a favourite destination for families, tourists, school groups, and animal lovers for over a century. 

Assiniboine Park Zoo is an accredited member of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, Canada’s Accredited Zoos and Aquariums, and the World Association of Zoos and Aquariums. As an accredited, modern zoological organization, Assiniboine Park Zoo focuses on meeting and exceeding the ever rising standards of animal care and welfare, safety, and veterinary programs and as well as demonstrating a commitment to education, conservation and research.

With over 80 acres to explore, the Zoo is open year-round with both indoor and outdoor exhibits, providing visitors with the opportunity to interact with animal species from all corners of the globe. Educational programs for adults and children, unique event venues, and special events and promotions combine to make the Zoo Winnipeg's premier outdoor attraction!

The Opportunity

Under the general direction of the Director, Animal Health and Nutrition, the Registered Veterinary Technologist is responsible for assisting in the delivery of preventative and emergency veterinary care to the animals at Assiniboine Park Zoo while maintaining the quality standards of accredited zoological and veterinary practices.

The incumbent will maintain high standards of maintenance and care for a diverse collection of animals. Responsibilities include: animal husbandry and welfare, day to day servicing of hospital facilities and equipment, examinations of collection animals, administration of veterinary treatments, collection and reading of diagnostic samples, guest services, medical record keeping and related duties as required. The incumbent may be required to work with or within other zoological departments.

The incumbent will adhere to all health and safety regulations, legislation and policies.

Responsibilities include but are not limited to:

• Under the direct supervision of the Director of Animal Health
• Administer and monitor anesthesia under veterinary direction
• Aseptically prepare patients for surgery, assist in surgery under veterinary direction
• Maintain diagnostic and treatment instruments in good working order
• Clean, disinfect or sterilize facility and equipment as needed
• Administer veterinary treatments to animals by oral, subcutaneous, intramuscular, intravenous, intra-peritoneal and other routes
• Obtain clinical samples including blood, urine, feces, hair, feathers and swabs
• Administer and maintain veterinary medical devices including intravenous and urinary catheters, butterfly needles, blood pressure monitors, EKG monitors and other devices as required
• Perform diagnostic evaluations on clinical samples
• Maintain medical records of procedures, and treatments
• Maintain hospital inventory of equipment and supplies
• Maintain animal quarantines as directed by Zoo Veterinarians
• Participate in animal training for veterinary diagnostics or treatments
• Participate in animal handling, restraint, and transport in accordance with established procedures
• Collaborate in research programs with approved partners
• Promote and participate conservation projects and initiatives
• Conduct research to keep up-to-date with animal species, animal inventory, new animals, etc.
• Deliver tours and presentations as scheduled
• Maintain cleanliness and orderliness in assigned areas
• Assist in husbandry care of animals held within the Animal Health Centre
• Maintain animal equipment and facilities in good order
• Deal in a courteous and professional manner to Park guests
• Adhere and comply with all APC policies, safety regulations and safe work practices that will ensure a safe work environment
• Maintain a professional image while working and provide extraordinary experiences to our Park guests while preforming daily work activities
• Demonstrate the ability to establish and maintain positive relationships with co-workers, volunteers, and guests
• Demonstrate a commitment to the principles of equity and diversity, and proven ability to work effectively with a diverse population
• Collaborate and work alongside APC teams, including providing direction and oversight of volunteers working within your department
• Perform other related duties and responsibilities as required

Qualifications Required

• A post-secondary education diploma from an accredited Veterinary Technology Program
• Must possess a license from the Manitoba Veterinary Technology Association (MVTA)
• Must possess a license from the Manitoba Veterinary Medical Association (MVMA)
• Successful completion of Veterinary Technician National Examination
• Valid Manitoba Driver’s License
• A minimum of two years Registered Veterinary Technologist experience in a veterinary practice
• A good understanding of captive management and behaviors of a wide variety of domestic and wild animals
• Basic knowledge of computer programs including Microsoft Office software
• Demonstrated ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with co-workers, volunteers, and guests
• Good standing in provincial regulatory body overseeing the RAHT / RVT profession
• An equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered

APC Commitment to Diversity & Inclusion:

APC is committed to employment equity and encourages applications from women, Indigenous people, underrepresented community members, and persons with disabilities. 

Accommodations are available upon request during the assessment and selection process.

How to apply:

All interested applicants can submit their résumé and cover letter on our career website. We thank all who apply, however, only those selected for further consideration will be contacted. 

Successful candidates will be subject to a Criminal Record Check, child abuse registry check and will be required to wear APC issued uniforms.