Position Title: Veterinary Technician

Department: Veterinary

Supervisor: Hospital Manager

Nashville Zoo Mission

Nashville Zoo is dedicated to inspiring a culture of understanding and discovery of our natural world through conservation, innovation, and leadership. With a diverse collection of animals and a commitment to wildlife preservation, we provide engaging experiences for visitors of all ages.

Why Work with Us

At Nashville Zoo, we believe in taking care of our team just as well as we care for our animals. Full-time employees enjoy a robust benefits package designed to support your health, well-being, and future:

Comprehensive healthcare coverage – including medical, dental, and vision plans to keep you and your family healthy.
Employee Assistance Program (EAP) – confidential support services for mental, emotional, and financial well-being.
401(k) retirement plan with company matching – helping you build a secure future while you make a meaningful impact today.
Generous paid time off and sick leave – because rest and recovery are vital.
Exclusive zoo perks – enjoy discounts on park experiences, retail, and food services, plus complimentary membership benefits.
A collaborative and inclusive culture – be part of a diverse team where your voice matters, your growth is nurtured, and collaboration thrives across all departments.
AZA-accredited facility – Nashville Zoo is committed to top-tier animal care, ethics and global conservation efforts.

Job Description

The Nashville Zoo is seeking an experienced Veterinary Technician to join our team at our new 24,000 square foot state of the art Veterinary Hospital. The Veterinary Technician, as part of the Veterinary Team consisting of two Veterinarians, a Hospital Manager, two technicians, and two hospital keepers provides quality care to over 400 species. The Nashville Zoo is a recognized leader and supporter of animal conservation and is an AZA accredited institution. Our beautiful park offers a unique variety of animal exhibits with experienced staff and volunteers committed to providing superior animal care and guest experiences. This position is Full Time and offers a competitive total compensation package that includes medical, dental, vision, life, long term and short term disability; 401(k) plan with match; Company funded Heath Reimbursement Accounts and Health Savings Accounts, paid holidays, and paid time off.

This position provides veterinary technical support to the veterinary and animal management staffs both within the hospital and in the field. Responsibilities include assisting staff veterinarians with all aspects of a comprehensive animal health program for a wide variety of species. This includes, but is not limited to the following: animal restraint, sample collection, clinical procedures, product purchasing, anesthesia, radiology, surgical and pathology services support. Opportunities exist for assisting with conservation research. The individual will also be expected to complete laboratory procedures and maintain area compliance with USDA and AZA regulations and standards, including record keeping, husbandry care, training, enrichment, quarantine procedures, etc. Veterinary staff are required to work weekends and holidays as the animal care schedule necessitates. This position reports to the Hospital Manager. Applicants for this position are required to submit to a criminal background check and pass a drug test.

Duties and Responsibilities

Maintain professional conduct at all times and consistently model the organization’s values in all interactions with colleagues, guests, and stakeholders.
Maintain regular and reliable attendance
Perform monitoring on anesthetized animals using pulse oximetry, EKG, blood pressure, and blood gas machines, and to recognize normal and abnormal values
Assist veterinary staff in recognizing and correcting animal medical emergencies
Provide intensive care for critical animals under the direction of the veterinary staff
Assist with the care of hospitalized and quarantined patients