Registered Veterinary Technician

About the Role

This is your chance to work in zoo medicine—a unique clinical environment where every day brings new species, new challenges, and genuine conservation impact. You'll provide both clinical and husbandry support to Greater Vancouver Zoo's diverse animal collection, working closely with contracted veterinarians and a dedicated animal care team. Whether you're coming from companion animal, exotic, large animal, or mixed practice backgrounds, this role welcomes vets transitioning into zoological medicine.

You'll be involved in the full spectrum of zoo veterinary work: preventive medicine programs, diagnostics, emergency care, animal handling and restraint, quarantine protocols, nutrition support, and welfare-focused hospitalization. Beyond the clinical side, you'll train and mentor interns and seasonal staff, participate in public education demonstrations, and contribute to zoo-wide conservation initiatives. This is a full-time position based in Aldergrove, BC, offering a collaborative work environment with a team genuinely invested in animal welfare.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist in delivering medical care across the zoo's animal collection—preventive medicine, diagnostics, treatment, and emergency response
• Support and implement preventative health programs including scheduled exams, vaccinations, parasite control, and lab diagnostics
• Monitor, prepare, and administer treatments as directed by veterinarians; maintain accurate medical records
• Facilitate and uphold quarantine protocols for incoming or outgoing animals
• Perform animal handling, restraint, and transport across a wide range of species
• Assist with diet preparation and nutrition monitoring
• Provide welfare-focused care to hospitalized and quarantined animals, including daily husbandry and enrichment
• Maintain cleanliness and organization of medical and quarantine facilities
• Train and supervise interns, seasonal staff, and volunteers
• Participate in staff education, public demonstrations, and conservation programs
• Assist with zoonotic disease surveillance and occupational health protocols
• Collaborate across departments to ensure seamless, ethical animal care

Requirements

• Registered Veterinary Technician (RVT) designation in good standing in British Columbia (or eligibility for registration)
• At least 2–3 years of veterinary experience
• Strong knowledge of animal health, anatomy, husbandry practices, and preventative care
• Comfort working with a wide range of animal taxa (carnivores, primates, birds, reptiles, hoofstock)
• Sound judgment, excellent communication skills, and ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Basic proficiency in Microsoft Office and electronic medical records systems
• Valid BC driver's licence
• Ability to lift up to 70 lbs and work outdoors in all weather conditions
• Comfortable standing, walking, crouching, or kneeling for extended periods
• Comfort with exposure to animal odors, vocalizations, and cleaning agents
• Mental stamina to manage emotional demands, competing priorities, and fast-paced decision-making

Benefits

No specific benefits were detailed in the job posting. Please contact Greater Vancouver Zoo directly for compensation, health coverage, and other employment benefits information.

About the Practice

Greater Vancouver Zoo, established in 1970, is a zoological institution dedicated to animal care and conservation. Located in Aldergrove, BC, the zoo maintains a diverse animal collection and operates with a collaborative team structure where animal care staff, veterinary professionals, and education teams work together to prioritize animal welfare and conservation outcomes.