Zoo Veterinary Technician: Surgery, Diagnostics & Animal Care

Houston Zoo; Houston (TX); On-site; USD 52,000 - 68,000; Full time

Job summary

Houston Zoo seeks a Veterinary Technician to provide medical care and welfare for a diverse animal collection and to support conservation and research. You will collaborate with veterinarians and care teams in anesthesia, diagnostics, and treatment in a dynamic zoo setting.

The role requires a licensed veterinary technician with lab work, imaging, and strong regulatory compliance. Join our team to help keep animals healthy while contributing to wildlife conservation and public education.

Qualifications

• Degree from an AVMA-accredited Veterinary Technician program.
• Licensed Veterinary Technician able to obtain Texas license within 6 months.
• Minimum of three years experience in a veterinary clinic or hospital with at least one year of diagnostic testing.
• Minimum of one year zoo experience in a veterinary clinic or equivalent.

Responsibilities

• Anesthesia induction, monitoring, and recovery of patients.
• Administer and monitor anesthesia in multiple species, ensuring patient safety during procedures.
• Handle controlled substances following DEA and Texas guidelines.
• Assist in surgical procedures and provide diagnostic imaging support.
• Perform veterinary laboratory tests and analyze results.
• Maintain accurate records and ensure regulatory compliance.

Skills

Anesthesia administration

Surgical assistance

Laboratory procedures

Diagnostic imaging

Zoonotic biosecurity

Education

AVMA-accredited Vet Tech program

Tools

Radiography equipment

Laboratory instruments

Job description

Houston Zoo seeks a Veterinary Technician to provide medical care and welfare for a diverse animal collection and to support conservation and research. You will collaborate with veterinarians and care teams in anesthesia, diagnostics, and treatment in a dynamic zoo setting.

The role requires a licensed veterinary technician with lab work, imaging, and strong regulatory compliance. Join our team to help keep animals healthy while contributing to wildlife conservation and public education.