Zoo Hospital Technician

Miami-Dade County; Miami (FL); On-site; USD 42,000 - 56,000; Full time

Job summary

Miami-Dade County is seeking a Zoo Hospital Technician to join our on-site team in Miami, FL. This full-time role supports veterinarians with exams, treatments, diagnostics, and surgeries across exotic and wildlife species.

You will prepare equipment, maintain sterile fields, document medical records, collect samples, and assist with routine health checks while adhering to biosecurity protocols and collaborating with animal care staff.

Qualifications

• Completion of a veterinary technician program or equivalent training.
• Certification or licensure as a veterinary technician preferred.
• Experience assisting exams, treatments and handling diverse species.

Responsibilities

• Assist veterinarians with examinations, treatments, diagnostics, and surgeries across exotic and wildlife species.
• Prepare and maintain medical equipment and treatment areas; clean and disinfect facilities.
• Monitor animals before and after procedures and document medical records and inventory.
• Collect samples and perform basic laboratory tests under supervision.
• Support routine health checks and preventive care; adhere to safety and biosecurity protocols.
• Collaborate with animal care staff and may assist with public education or tours related to animal health.

Skills

Vet & animal care

Lab procedures

Records & inventory

Biosecurity awareness

Communication & teamwork

Physical stamina

Vet tech education

Zoo/wildlife experience

Education

Vet tech program

Vet tech certification/licensure

Tools

Medical equipment

Job description

Company Description Miami-Dade County, Florida is the most populous county in the southeastern United States and a major hub for commerce, culture, and tourism. Often referred to as the “Gateway to Latin America and the Caribbean,” the county offers a diverse, international community and rich cultural environment. With an estimated population of over 2.6 million residents, Miami-Dade provides extensive public services, including parks, animal care, and specialized facilities such as zoo and wildlife hospitals. County employees benefit from working in a dynamic setting that supports professional growth and public service. The organization emphasizes inclusive employment practices and community-focused work.

Role Description The Zoo Hospital Technician is a full-time, on-site role based in Miami, FL, providing daily veterinary support within the zoo hospital and animal care facilities. This role includes assisting veterinarians with examinations, treatments, diagnostic procedures, and surgeries for a wide range of species, including exotic and wildlife animals. Typical tasks involve preparing and maintaining medical equipment, cleaning and disinfecting treatment areas, monitoring animals before and after procedures, and accurately documenting medical records and inventory. The technician helps collect samples, perform basic laboratory tests, administer medications under supervision, and support routine health checks and preventive care programs. The position also collaborates closely with animal care staff to monitor animal behavior and health, adheres to safety and biosecurity protocols, and may assist with public education or behind-the-scenes tours related to animal health and welfare.

Qualifications

• Veterinary and animal care skills, including experience assisting with exams, treatments, and handling of domestic and exotic species.
• Technical skills in basic laboratory procedures, sample collection, use of medical equipment, and maintenance of sterile conditions.
• Record-keeping and organizational skills for maintaining accurate medical files, inventory control, and scheduling of procedures.
• Health, safety, and biosecurity awareness, including adherence to infection control, workplace safety standards, and animal welfare regulations.
• Communication and teamwork skills to collaborate effectively with veterinarians, animal care staff, and other departments.
• Ability to perform physically demanding work, including standing for extended periods, lifting moderate weights, and working in outdoor or varied environmental conditions.
• Relevant education such as completion of a veterinary technician program or equivalent training; certification or licensure as a veterinary technician is preferred.
• Prior experience in a zoo, wildlife, or specialty animal hospital setting is beneficial, along with familiarity with diverse species and conservation-focused care.