Employment Opportunities

Veterinary Technician

 About Oklahoma Primate Sanctuary

Oklahoma Primate Sanctuary provides exceptional, compassionate, lifetime care for nonhuman primates retired from research, rehomed from the pet trade, and retired from display. Located outside of Newcastle, OK, the sanctuary currently cares for nearly 100 animals on 12.5 acres. Our core values of respect and kindness for the animals in our care is infused throughout the organization and its operations.

Position Summary

We are seeking a compassionate, skilled, and dedicated veterinary technician to join our team at OPS. This position will support the sanctuary’s veterinarian in providing medical care for a diverse group of primates, ensuring their health and well-being. The ideal candidate will have a strong passion for animal welfare, particularly for exotic species, and will play a key role in managing day-to-day veterinary needs.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist the veterinarian with routine and emergency medical procedures for primates.
• Administer medications, vaccinations, and treatments as directed by the veterinarian.
• Perform diagnostic tests such as blood draws, urinalysis, and radiographs.
• Monitor animal anesthesia during procedures and assist with recovery.
• Provide wound care and basic veterinary nursing services.
• Maintain accurate medical records for each animal in accordance with sanctuary protocols.
• Help maintain the sanctuary’s veterinary equipment and supplies inventory.
• Educate sanctuary staff and volunteers on animal health and safety protocols.
• Assist with animal transport for veterinary appointments when needed.
• Respond to animal emergencies and provide first aid when necessary.
• Ensure sanitation and cleanliness of veterinary facilities and animal enclosures.
• Participate in regular rounds with the veterinarian to monitor the overall health of the primates.
• Collaborate with other sanctuary staff in behavioral assessments and enrichment activities.

Desired Qualifications

• Education:
  • Certification as a Veterinary Technician (CVT, LVT, or RVT).
• Experience:
  • Minimum of 1-2 years experience as a veterinary technician, with a strong preference for those with experience working with exotic animals, particularly primates.
  • Experience in administering anesthesia and performing diagnostic procedures.
  • Knowledge of zoonotic diseases, animal behavior, and emergency care for exotic species.
• Skills & Attributes:
  • Strong interpersonal skills, with the ability to work well with a diverse team of animal caretakers.
  • Compassionate and dedicated to animal welfare.
  • Ability to handle physically demanding tasks, including lifting and restraining animals.
  • Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills for maintaining medical records and interacting with staff.
  • Ability to stay calm and focused in high-stress situations, particularly during animal emergencies.

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to lift 50 lbs regularly and assist with the movement of larger animals.
• Comfort working in a variety of environmental conditions, including outdoor and enclosed spaces.
• Ability to stand, walk, bend, and stoop for extended periods.

Hours & Location

• This is an in-person, full-time position. Regular working hours are expected to be 9:00am-5:00pm, Monday-Friday.

Compensation & Benefits

• $35,000–$40,000 annual salary, negotiable based on experience.
• Additional monthly stipend of $150/month to assist with health and pet insurance premiums.
• Paid holidays and vacation.

How to Apply

• Please send a cover letter and resume by email to jobs@okprimates.org and include “OPS Vet Tech” in the subject line. Your cover letter should address your interest in OPS’s mission and how your qualifications relate to this position.
• We will accept applications on a rolling basis until the position is filled. The hiring process will involve an interview, a site visit, and a reference check.