Senior Veterinarian

As the Senior Veterinarian at Lion Country Safari, located in Loxahatchee, FL, you will lead our veterinary team in providing exceptional care to a diverse range of exotic and domestic animals residing within the zoo. Your role involves overseeing the health and well-being of our animal population, collaborating with other zoo departments, and contributing to conservation efforts.

The Senior Veterinarian designs and maintains preventative medicine programs and responds to day-to-day clinical care of sick or injured collection animals and native wildlife.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Conduct routine health checks and medical assessments for animals.

• Diagnose and treat illnesses, injuries, and diseases in various species.

• Perform surgeries and medical procedures as necessary.

• Develop and implement preventive health care programs.

• Lead the quarantine and biosecurity protocols for incoming animals.

• Manage the animal nutrition program.

• Collaborate with curators and keepers to ensure appropriate animal enrichment.

• Oversee anesthesia and sedation procedures for animal examinations.

• Manage veterinary staff, veterinary technicians and assistants in daily tasks, professional competency, culture, and engagement.

• Maintain accurate medical records and documentation.

• Participate in and support conservation initiatives and research projects.

• Undertake, assign and manage clinical cases as required.

• Other duties as assigned.

Requirements

Education and Experience

• Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) or equivalent degree.

• Licensed to practice veterinary medicine in the state/province/country of employment.

• Minimum of 15 years of clinical experience, preferably with exotic animals.

• Strong surgical and medical skills applicable to diverse species.

• Experience in zoo medicine or wildlife rehabilitation is highly desirable.

• Ability to lead and mentor a team of veterinary professionals.

• Excellent communication skills and ability to collaborate with diverse zoo departments.

• Commitment to animal welfare and conservation principles.

• Willingness to work flexible hours and participate in on-call duties.

• 18 years or older

• Valid FL Drivers License

• Pre employment TB screening, Rabies and Tetanus vaccinations are a requirement of this role.

• Willingness to work overtime and be available for emergency work

• Must be able to work weekends and holidays.

• Must possess a good work ethic and make every effort to be at work, on time, and be a team player.

• Must possess the ability to work alone and unsupervised for extended periods of time.

• Must have the ability to interact and communicate with the public in a courteous and professional manner.

• Safety is our highest priority and safety procedures/guidelines must always be adhered to

• Punctuality and attendance are extremely important to the success of the operations in general as well as contributing to an overall positive team atmosphere

Preferred Qualifications:

• Board certification or eligibility in Zoological Medicine (ABVP or ECZM) is a plus.

• Experience in research related to zoo animal health and conservation.

• Familiarity with regulatory requirements related to zoo animal health and welfare.

DFWP/EOE