Denver Zoo is a leader in animal care, wildlife conservation and education. We are passionate about our commitment to excellence in support of our mission of Inspiring Communities to Save Wildlife for Future Generations.
Denver Zoo honors our animals, staff, and guests by conducting ourselves at the highest level of integrity through our Core Actions -- Inspire Awe: Safety, Care, Connect and by embracing our Core Values of: Welcoming, United, Transformative, Curious, Courageous in all that we do.
Denver Zoo offers a 4-week zoological medicine externship for 4th year veterinary students (2025-2026 school year). Denver Zoo's veterinary staff includes four veterinarians, a veterinary pathologist, a nutritionist, and six veterinary technicians. Students will gain knowledge and experience in diagnosis and treatment of captive wildlife in a diverse zoological collection. This will include hematology, cytology, anesthesia, radiology, pathology, internal medicine, and surgery. Students will participate in all aspects of zoological medicine, including physical exam and triage, diagnostics, treatments, medical records, and animal care. Students will attend rounds, procedures in the hospital, and procedures on zoo grounds.
To be considered a candidate for this position, the following criteria are required:
- Submit a cover letter explaining your interest in this opportunity and pertinent experience
- Submit curriculum vitae
- Submit two letters of recommendation
- Be in your fourth year of vet school at the time of the planned externship
- Have effective communication skills (written, oral and listening)
If accepted, you will be required to provide proof of a negative TB test within 12 months of your start date, tetanus vaccine in the past 7 years, rabies vaccination or titer within 2 years
Veterinary Externs are expected to:
- Receive feedback and implement it
- Work in a fast paced, team environment
- Work alone without supervision
- Remain calm and perform under pressure
Much of the work involves walking, standing, lifting, crouching, pushing, pulling and carrying items. Must be able to lift between 25-50 pounds and work dexterously with hands and arms. This position requires a substantial amount of contact with staff, volunteers, other departments and zoo guests. The extern will be exposed to all weather conditions, chemicals and zoonosis. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate. Appropriate clothing, including footwear, is required. This application closes on October 31, 2024.
Denver Zoo reserves the right to close the position prior to the above date.
Denver Zoo is an Equal Opportunity Employer
