Zoo Veterinary Associate — Wildlife Medicine & Care

The Living Desert; Palm Desert (CA); On-site; USD 120,000 - 190,000; Full time

Job summary

The Living Desert is seeking an Associate Veterinarian to join the Veterinary and Animal Care Teams in providing clinical medical and surgical care for the collection. You will collaborate with the Head Veterinarian and three full-time veterinary technicians to maintain the veterinary program.

Located in the Coachella Valley, CA, the role supports AZA standards and conservation initiatives while fostering a forward-thinking, inclusive culture for staff and volunteers.

Qualifications

• DVM or VMD or equivalent from an accredited school of veterinary medicine.
• Two years minimum of full-time zoological or wildlife medicine practice.
• Must be legally able to work in the United States.
• Must be licensed to practice veterinary medicine in California within 6 months of hire date.
• Must obtain USDA National Veterinary Accreditation Category II Accreditation within 6 months of hire date.
• Must obtain a valid California driver’s license within 3 months of hire.
• Must be insurable on The Living Desert’s automobile policy.
• Must provide proof of COVID-19 vaccination and booster.

Responsibilities

• Provide routine and emergency medical and surgical treatment for TLD collection animals.
• Manage the TLD preventive healthcare program.
• Maintain complete and accurate medical records for all animals in the TLD collection.
• Participate in the Emergency Darting Team and assist in training staff on the team.
• Interact with guests and media to promote TLD’s mission.
• Provide a safe and productive working environment.

Skills

Zoo veterinary care

Zoonotic diseases

Zoo animal medicine

Dangerous animals handling

Communication skills

Team supervision

Networking

Attention to detail

Self-starter

Education

DVM or VMD or equivalent

Job description

The Living Desert is seeking an Associate Veterinarian to join the Veterinary and Animal Care Teams in providing clinical medical and surgical care for the collection. You will collaborate with the Head Veterinarian and three full-time veterinary technicians to maintain the veterinary program.

Located in the Coachella Valley, CA, the role supports AZA standards and conservation initiatives while fostering a forward-thinking, inclusive culture for staff and volunteers.