Veterinary Technician Apprentice

Description: The six-month training program combines hands-on experience and related classroom instruction. Participants will learn the practical skills and theoretical knowledge required to excel in the field of veterinary medicine and understand its role in wildlife rehabilitation and animal care. This program is designed for individuals with some prior experience in wildlife rehabilitation or animal care who are planning to pursue a career in veterinary medicine, but require more thorough development of medical and laboratory skills, animal handling and husbandry techniques. The VTA will assist the Lead Veterinarian, Associate Veterinarian and Veterinary Technicians with day-to-day operations involving physical examination, diagnosis, and treatment of all injured or ill animals received by the hospital, with an emphasis on native wildlife. The VTA’s daily duties, in addition to serving the veterinary staff, will include the cleaning and upkeep of the surgery room, cleaning and preparation of surgical packs, fecal examination and urinalysis, morning administration of medications in the hospital, and evening surgery room closing duties. The VTA will also be required to complete rehabilitation and animal care shifts as needed.

Requirements: 

• Minimum one year of previous professional animal care experience required, wildlife rehabilitation and veterinary clinic experience strongly preferred. • Bachelor’s degree required.
• Commitment to completion of the twelve-month program.
• Willingness to work evenings, weekends, and holidays.
• Ability to work long hours (40 hours per week, overtime as needed) in all weather conditions.
• Ability to lift 50lbs, twist and bend, and spend long periods of time on your feet.
• Capable of handling physically, mentally and emotionally stressful situations.
• Possess a strong personal work ethic, positive attitude and high level of integrity.
• Meningitis, Tetanus and Rabies pre-exposure vaccines are required. Negative tuberculosis test result is required. Valid driver’s license and clean driving record are required.

Availability: Annual Wildlife Rehabilitation Apprentice & Veterinary Apprentice sessions have a flexible start date. A six-month commitment is required.

Compensation: A monthly stipend of $500 dollars is granted. On-site housing and cost of pre-exposure rabies vaccines provided with six-month commitment. Utilities and internet included.

Persons interested in applying for this position should send a cover letter, resume, three references, and any letters of recommendation (email preferred):

Wildlife Rescue & Rehabilitation, Inc.

Attn: Apprentice & Training Supervisor

P.O. Box 369 | Kendalia, TX 78027

Fax: (830) 336-3733

Email: GKelliher@wildlife-rescue.org

Email Subject Line: “Apprentice Application Your Name