Primate Sanctuary Veterinarian Jobs

Primate Sanctuary Veterinarian

Born Free USA Primate Sanctuary, Cotulla, TX 78014

The Born Free USA Primate Sanctuary seeks a veterinarian to join its growing primate sanctuary team. This is an exciting opportunity to work at one of the world’s best primate sanctuaries and care for around 260 macaques, baboons, and vervets alongside an incredibly talented, compassionate, and dedicated team.

Working alongside our existing staff veterinarian, the successful candidate will deliver all aspects of preventative and curative animal healthcare and will work with the sanctuary’s veterinary technician and staff of primate caregivers.

The ideal candidate will have experience with primate care, but we are open to early career veterinarians and those with experience working with other wildlife or domesticated species.

Salary and Benefits

This is a full-time, exempt position. Annual salary of $55,000 to $75,000, depending on experience. Benefits include health insurance, paid time off, and a 401(K) plan with employer matching. We also offer free on-site housing (private bedroom with shared bathroom and living space) with utilities included, if desired. Living on the property is not required.

Hours and Location

Regular working hours are 7:00am-4:00pm, five shifts a week. The sanctuary operates 365 days a year. The veterinarian will be expected to work holidays and weekends dependent on scheduling.

The sanctuary is located 90 miles south of San Antonio; candidates must be comfortable living in a rural area with limited amenities and entertainment or willingness to commute on a daily basis. They must also be able to work outside in all weather conditions, including daily temperatures in the 90s or higher in the summer months.

How to Apply

Send resume and cover letter to Liz Tyson, Programs Director: [email protected]

Your cover letter should include discussion of why you feel you are the best candidate for the position based on the stated qualifications and address how your views align with Born Free USA’s position on the keeping of animals in captivity in zoos and the exotic pet trade and their use in medical research.

Additional Information

A criminal background check will be conducted following acceptance of employment offer. All employees must provide proof of being fully vaccinated for COVID-19 unless they qualify for an exemption and proof of a negative TB test taken within the last 12 months.

Primary Responsibilities

The Veterinarian is responsible for working with the existing staff veterinarian in overseeing and administering the medical care and treatment of the sanctuary’s primate residents and a few resident domestic cats. This includes observation, wellness and illness exams, diagnosis and treatment of illness or injury, surgery, and chemical immobilization. Necropsies and euthanasia (as a means to end suffering) may also be required.

They will supervise a veterinary technician and an intern with expectations of guiding and overseeing their work as well as mentoring.

They will also be responsible for regulatory compliance including licensing, medical waste disposal, and use of controlled substances. Other duties include maintaining patient records and transporting animals for radiology or specialist visits.

Qualifications

Applicants must have permission to work legally in the United States at the time of application.

Applicants must have a DVM or VMD degree and be licensed to practice veterinary medicine in the state of Texas.

Preference will be given to candidates with experience working with wild animals in a sanctuary setting, ideally with primates. New graduates or early career candidates will be considered provided they have had education or volunteer or externship experience working with wildlife. Experience in chemical immobilization is also desirable.

The successful candidate will have a demonstrated commitment to Born Free USA’s mission and values. They will be able to perform calmly under pressure and in medical emergencies. The doctor will understand that they are a part of a team and will listen to and give credence to the experience and knowledge of other staff.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $55,000.00 - $75,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Paid time off

Schedule:

• Weekend availability
• On call
• Day shift
• 8 hour shift

Work Location: In person