Small Animal Husbandry Caretaker

Position Description

Help to care for, monitor, and coordinate use of animals/patients involved in the curriculum of the Texas Tech University School of Medicine (TTU SVM). They will engage in all aspects of animal husbandry and handling including grooming, feeding and general care. Monitor the condition of the animal housing units, exercise yards, and husbandry equipment.

Major/Essential Functions

• Assist veterinary faculty and staff in developing and constructing methods of handling and care of hospitalized and resident patients
• Monitor and facilitate feeding of patients
• Monitor the health condition of patients, report concerns as needed, and treat animals as instructed
• Maintain animal quarters, equipment, and facilities in a clean and organized manner
• Assist with animal-based educational research
• Ensure appropriate inventory levels are stocked for animal husbandry
• Optimize efficiency in animal care, housing, and handling
• Maintain patient records in a practice management software
• Innovatively coordinate patient use for instruction, medical care, and housing
• Assist in clinical and professional skills laboratories involving animal use
• Transport animals between local/area shelters and SVM facilities
• Routinely lift 50 pounds or less independently
• Work closely with veterinary students in the care and housing of animals
• Supervise others in animal use, such as students, student workers, or other staff regarding use of equipment and safety procedures
• Integrate animal exchange with local shelters
• Clean and disinfect kennels, yards, and other areas used by animals
• Bathe, groom, and monitor cleanliness of animals
• Exercise animals as needed while under our care
• Support veterinary technicians and students as needed
• Be willing to cross train and assist Large Animal Husbandry Caretakers with the care of horses and cattle on an occasional basis if needed.
• Other duties as assigned

Required Qualifications

High School Diploma or GED equivalent. Experience working with and handling various species of animals. Promote and foster the Core Values of the School of Veterinary Medicine. This position requires eligibility to drive TTU vehicles, including a valid U.S. driver license and two years of driving experience.

Preferred Qualifications

• Willingness to learn new techniques and animal handling skills
• Experience working with and handling various species of animals
• Ability to recognize when an animal is in need of veterinary care.
• Veterinary supervised experience
• Ability to work outside of regular business hours
• Experience with Microsoft Office programs and veterinary practice management software
• Trained in animal health, behavior, handling, and general animal welfare