We welcome all persons that hold a DVM, VMD or equivalent veterinary degree, and demonstrated experience in the zoological medicine and/or emergency veterinary response communities, to apply for the position of Contract Veterinarian – Zoonotic Disease Framework Development with the Zoo and Aquarium All-Hazards Partnership (ZAHP). This position is funded by a cooperative agreement with the United States Department of Agriculture’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (USDA APHIS), and will be responsible for the development of a framework for zoonotic disease preparedness and prevention; a key objective of the agreement.

Essential Duties
The successful applicant will use a One Health approach to examine current efforts for disease preparedness and prevention in the Exotic Animal Industry (EAI), and develop a strategic framework to guide ‘big picture’ efforts moving forward. Essential duties would include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Conduct research and outreach to gather information about the current state of zoonotic disease preparedness and prevention in the EAI
• Capture industry needs & capabilities and identify gaps where additional resources are needed, opportunities for greater collaboration, and potential challenges to this work
• Collaborate with key stakeholders to identify overarching priorities and objectives for the framework
• Develop a draft framework, to include strategies and recommended activities in support of priorities and objectives
• Coordinate with American Association of Zoo Veterinarians (AAZV) ZAHP Operations Committee to review draft and determine next steps
• Some travel may be required

Additional duties may be assigned to achieve project goals. This hourly contractor will be under the supervision of the AAZV Executive Director, and will work closely with the ZAHP Operations Committee and AAZV staff.

Required Skills and Qualifications

• Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) or equivalent
• Demonstrated experience in zoological medicine and/or emergency veterinary response
• Familiarity with zoos, aquariums, sanctuaries, and/or other captive wildlife facilities operations, including regulatory requirements and broad inter/intra-industry relationships
• Knowledge of zoonotic disease concerns
• Excellent interpersonal, communication, and organizational skills
• Exceptional research, writing, and analytical skills
• Collaborative spirit and ability to work effectively across a diverse group of stakeholders
• High proficiency in virtual collaboration tools and MS Office suite
• Ability to work independently to achieve project goals

Term and Compensation
This position will be contracted hourly at a rate of $60/hour for a maximum of 1000 hours over the current period of performance (ending November 6, 2023). There is potential for extension if additional funding is secured.

Work will take place remotely over approximately 7-months, with an estimated start date of late March/early April 2023. Work is part-time and as an independent contractor.

To Apply
Deadline to apply by 13 February 2023 at 5PM EST. Send resume and cover letter to azielinski@zahp.org with the subject line “ZAHP Contract Vet Application”.

No phone calls, please.

About ZAHP
The Zoo and Aquarium All Hazards Partnership (ZAHP) is a collaborative effort that leverages the expertise of the exotic animal industry (EAI) and the emergency management sector to provide resources for enhancing preparedness for, and resiliency to, all-hazards that may impact facilities caring for exotic animals and wildlife.
ZAHP supports the entire EAI by providing reliable information, education, and outreach opportunities to address the unique needs and challenges, as well as capabilities and subject matter expertise, of this diverse community. While not a “boots-on-the ground” response organization, ZAHP is committed to building capacity for response and recovery within the EAI by working to strengthen coordination and communication with the larger response community, and supporting response partners during major events.
Funding support for this program is provided by the United States Department of Agriculture as a cooperative agreement with the American Association of Zoo Veterinarians (AAZV).