Aquatic Wildlife Veterinarian Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the age of conservation, the focus on aquatic wildlife veterinarians has never been more crucial.

As our understanding of aquatic ecosystems deepens, the demand for knowledgeable professionals dedicated to the health and well-being of marine and freshwater species grows.

But let’s dive deeper: What’s truly expected from an aquatic wildlife veterinarian?

Whether you are:

• An aspiring vet trying to understand the scope of this role,
• A hiring manager looking to pinpoint the perfect candidate,
• Or simply captivated by the complexities of aquatic veterinary science,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we introduce a customizable aquatic wildlife veterinarian job description template, designed for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s take the plunge.

Aquatic Wildlife Veterinarian Duties and Responsibilities

Aquatic Wildlife Veterinarians play a crucial role in the healthcare of aquatic animals.

Their duties and responsibilities go beyond just medical treatment, encompassing research, conservation efforts, and ensuring the overall well-being of aquatic species.

Their duties and responsibilities include:

• Diagnosing and treating diseases and injuries in aquatic animals
• Performing routine health checks and immunizations on aquatic animals
• Conducting surgery on injured or ill aquatic wildlife, if necessary
• Prescribing medications for the treatment of diseases
• Providing emergency care to injured or sick aquatic animals
• Advising and consulting with other wildlife professionals about the health and wellbeing of the animals under their care
• Conducting research to increase understanding of diseases and health issues in aquatic wildlife
• Implementing disease prevention and control programs
• Collaborating in conservation efforts to protect endangered aquatic species
• Ensuring that all aquatic animals under their care are living in sanitary and safe conditions
• Providing education and raising awareness about the care and protection of aquatic wildlife

 

Aquatic Wildlife Veterinarian Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a dedicated Aquatic Wildlife Veterinarian to diagnose and treat medical conditions in various aquatic animals.

The Aquatic Wildlife Veterinarian responsibilities include conducting regular examinations, performing surgical procedures, and promoting the health and wellbeing of aquatic animals.

Our ideal candidate is passionate about aquatic life and has an excellent understanding of marine biology.

They should be able to effectively treat animals while minimizing stress and discomfort.

Ultimately, the role of the Aquatic Wildlife Veterinarian is to ensure the overall health and wellbeing of aquatic animals through preventative care, diagnosis, and treatment.

 

Responsibilities

• Performing regular examinations on aquatic animals
• Diagnosing and treating illnesses and injuries
• Performing surgical procedures when necessary
• Providing emergency care to injured or sick aquatic animals
• Developing and implementing preventative care programs
• Educating the public about aquatic animal health and welfare
• Collaborating with marine biologists and other professionals in the field
• Keeping detailed records of animals’ medical histories
• Keeping up-to-date with advancements in veterinary medicine and techniques

 

Qualifications

• Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) degree
• State license to practice veterinary medicine
• Specialization in aquatic animal health
• Proven experience as a Veterinarian, preferably with aquatic animals
• Strong understanding of marine biology
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Ability to handle stressful situations and manage emergencies
• Detail-oriented with excellent problem-solving skills

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Continuing education opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Aquatic Wildlife Veterinarian
• Work Environment: This role typically works in an aquarium, zoo, marine park, or wildlife rehabilitation center. The job may require being outdoors in various weather conditions and may involve physical activities, such as lifting heavy objects or animals.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Head Veterinarian or Director of Animal Health.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $75,000 minimum to $105,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does an Aquatic Wildlife Veterinarian Do?

Aquatic Wildlife Veterinarians are specialized professionals who focus on the health and well-being of marine animals and fish.

They may work in various environments, including aquariums, marine rehabilitation centers, research institutions, or wildlife conservation organizations.

Their primary responsibility is diagnosing and treating illnesses, injuries, or diseases in a variety of aquatic species.

This could range from tiny fish to large mammals like whales and seals.

Aquatic Wildlife Veterinarians conduct routine medical procedures, surgeries, and administer medications as required.

They may also respond to and treat marine animals affected by oil spills or other environmental disasters.

These veterinarians often perform necropsies to determine cause of death and contribute to research on disease prevalence and emerging health issues in marine populations.

In addition to these duties, Aquatic Wildlife Veterinarians also play a critical role in the conservation of endangered species.

They may participate in breeding programs, reintroduction efforts, and other conservation initiatives.

They also educate the public and various stakeholders on issues related to marine wildlife health, conservation, and human impacts on these species.

 

Aquatic Wildlife Veterinarian Qualifications and Skills

An Aquatic Wildlife Veterinarian must have a unique set of skills and qualifications to provide necessary care for aquatic animals, such as:

• A Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) degree with specialization in aquatic or marine animals, and licensure for practice in the veterinarian’s location
• Technical knowledge and experience in diagnosing and treating diseases in aquatic wildlife, including the ability to perform surgeries and provide emergency care when needed
• A strong understanding of different aquatic species, their behaviours, and their physiological characteristics for accurate diagnosis and treatment
• Excellent observational skills to detect changes in behaviour or appearance of aquatic animals that may indicate health problems
• Excellent communication skills to effectively explain the diagnosis, treatment options and care instructions to the animal’s caretakers, other veterinarians, or rehabilitation staff
• Problem-solving abilities to determine the most effective treatment plans for each individual animal
• Patience and empathy to provide quality care for animals that may be stressed or in distress
• Physical stamina to conduct examinations and procedures on a variety of aquatic animals, some of which may be large or strong
• Understanding of environmental conservation and wildlife protection laws to ensure all actions are in compliance

 

Aquatic Wildlife Veterinarian Experience Requirements

Aquatic Wildlife Veterinarians typically need a doctoral degree in veterinary medicine, along with a state license to practice.

However, practical and specific experience is crucial in this specialized field.

Starting at the undergraduate level, those interested in becoming aquatic wildlife veterinarians should seek internships or volunteer experiences at aquariums, zoos, or marine rehabilitation centers.

These experiences provide hands-on experience with aquatic animals and exposure to the unique challenges of their healthcare.

After obtaining a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree, aspiring Aquatic Wildlife Veterinarians usually undertake a 1 to 2-year residency or fellowship in aquatic animal medicine, where they gain specialized experience treating a range of aquatic species.

Those with more than 3 years of experience often have a breadth of knowledge in various aquatic species’ diseases and treatments, and they may have conducted relevant research or published scholarly articles in the field.

Veterinarians with more than 5 years of experience in the aquatic wildlife specialty may be ready for a leadership role, such as head veterinarian at an aquarium or marine park, or they may pursue a career in academia as a professor or researcher.

They may also be involved in conservation efforts or policy-making related to aquatic wildlife health and welfare.

 

Aquatic Wildlife Veterinarian Education and Training Requirements

Becoming an Aquatic Wildlife Veterinarian requires a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) degree, which usually takes four years to complete after earning a bachelor’s degree.

The bachelor’s degree is typically in a field such as biology, animal science, zoology, or a related field, while the DVM program focuses on veterinary medicine.

The DVM program includes coursework in areas such as animal anatomy, physiology, disease prevention, diagnosis, and treatment.

After earning a DVM, aspiring Aquatic Wildlife Veterinarians should further specialize in aquatic animal health.

This may include completing a residency program in aquatic animal medicine, which provides advanced clinical training and research opportunities.

In addition, all states require veterinarians to obtain licensure before they can practice.

The requirements for licensure usually include graduating from an accredited veterinary school, passing the North American Veterinary Licensing Examination, and completing a state jurisprudence exam.

Continuing education is critical for Aquatic Wildlife Veterinarians to stay updated on the latest advancements in aquatic animal health.

This can be achieved through seminars, workshops, and professional conferences.

Some veterinarians may also choose to become board certified in a veterinary specialty, such as aquatic veterinary medicine, which indicates high levels of expertise and dedication in the field.

 

Aquatic Wildlife Veterinarian Salary Expectations

An Aquatic Wildlife Veterinarian can expect to earn an average salary of $88,770 (USD) per year.

However, this figure can significantly fluctuate based on factors such as years of experience in the field, educational background, geographical location, and the specific sector of employment like research facilities or wildlife conservation organizations.

 

Aquatic Wildlife Veterinarian Job Description FAQs

What are the educational requirements to become an Aquatic Wildlife Veterinarian?

Becoming an Aquatic Wildlife Veterinarian requires a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) degree from an accredited veterinary college.

Additionally, special training or certification in aquatic animal medicine or wildlife medicine can be beneficial.

Some veterinarians also pursue a Master’s degree or Ph.D. in marine biology or a similar field.

 

What skills are important for an Aquatic Wildlife Veterinarian?

Important skills for an Aquatic Wildlife Veterinarian include excellent diagnostic and surgical skills, strong knowledge of aquatic animal diseases and treatments, and an ability to handle stress and make decisions in emergency situations.

They must also have good communication skills to liaise with pet owners, wildlife conservationists, and other veterinary professionals.

 

What duties does an Aquatic Wildlife Veterinarian typically have?

An Aquatic Wildlife Veterinarian is responsible for the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of diseases in marine and freshwater animals.

Their duties can include performing physical examinations, conducting diagnostic tests, prescribing medications, performing surgeries, and providing preventative care, such as vaccinations.

They may also be involved in research related to aquatic animal health or conservation efforts.

 

What makes a good Aquatic Wildlife Veterinarian?

A good Aquatic Wildlife Veterinarian has a passion for aquatic animals and their wellbeing.

They have a deep understanding of marine biology and the unique health issues that can affect aquatic animals.

They are also dedicated to continuous learning to stay updated with the latest research and treatment methods.

Good Aquatic Wildlife Veterinarians are also empathetic, patient, and have strong communication skills.

 

Is it challenging to find qualified Aquatic Wildlife Veterinarians?

Yes, it can be challenging to find qualified Aquatic Wildlife Veterinarians because it is a specialized field with relatively few practitioners.

However, the demand for these specialists is high, particularly in areas with large populations of marine or freshwater wildlife, aquariums, or marine parks.

Offering competitive salaries and opportunities for research and professional growth can help attract qualified candidates.

 

Conclusion

And there we have it.

Today, we’ve dove beneath the surface to explore the depths of what it truly means to be an aquatic wildlife veterinarian.

And you know what?

It’s not just about treating illnesses in marine animals.

It’s about safeguarding the aquatic ecosystem, one aquatic animal at a time.

With our go-to aquatic wildlife veterinarian job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to take the plunge.

But why not go even deeper?

Dive further with our job description generator. It’s your next step to creating razor-sharp job listings or refining your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every treated aquatic animal contributes to the health of our oceans and seas.

Let’s protect that aquatic life. Together.

How to Become an Aquatic Wildlife Veterinarian (Complete Guide)

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