Jessica Kritzer
Smithtown
Summary
Dedicated pre-veterinary college student with a passion for learning and a commitment to academic and professional excellence. Thrives in fast-paced environments and is eager to contribute skills and enthusiasm to diverse projects and opportunities. Proficient in time management, collaboration, and problem-solving.
Overview
5
5
years of professional experience
Work History
Mammal Department Assistant
Long Island Aquarium
Riverhead
05.2025 - 08.2025
- Prepared and inspected daily diets for seals, sea lions, and North American river otters, including hand-checking and weighing fish, discarding poor-quality specimens, and administering vitamin supplements to ensure optimal health.
- Prepared and distributed enrichment for terrestrial mammals, including coatis, porcupines, marmosets, and fishing cats, focusing on physical and cognitive stimulation to promote welfare and natural behaviors.
- Assisted with behavioral husbandry through observation and participation in training sessions for a variety of species, under the guidance of professional animal care staff.
- Lead independent daily training and feeding sessions with harbor seals, practicing behavioral cueing, reinforcement timing, and maintaining behavioral criteria under supervision.
- Assist with sea lion show by setting up the stage, preparing show materials, ensuring guest safety, and operating the tech booth.
- Maintain high standards of sanitation and biosecurity by cleaning animal food prep stations, buckets, and equipment used for diet prep, and enrichment distribution.
Veterinary Assistant
Smithtown Village Animal Hospital
Smithtown
03.2025 - 08.2025
- Assisted veterinarians in the restraint and handling of canine and feline species during physical exams, diagnostics, and procedures, ensuring animal and staff safety.
- Collected and processed diagnostic samples (blood, fecal, urine, cytology), performed in-house lab tests, and assisted in interpreting results under DVM guidance.
- Maintained strict infection control and sanitation protocols across exam rooms, kennels, and surgical areas, contributing to a safe and efficient clinical environment.
- Supported hospitalized and post-operative patients with compassionate care, enrichment, feeding, and regular monitoring to promote recovery and well-being.
- Provided daily care for boarding and hospitalized dogs, including feeding, medicating, exercising, and monitoring for changes in behavior, appetite, or health.
- Administered oral and topical medications as prescribed by veterinarians, maintaining accurate treatment logs, and reporting concerns to medical staff.
Team Member
Chick-fil-A
Smithtown
04.2022 - 12.2024
- Delivered fast, friendly, and accurate service, ensuring a positive guest experience, and upholding Chick-fil-A’s customer service standards.
- Collaborated with team members across front and back of house roles to maintain smooth operations during peak hours.
- Took and fulfilled complex customer orders with attention to accuracy and speed, regularly handling special requests and dietary needs.
- Maintained a clean, organized, and food-safe work environment by following strict health and sanitation guidelines.
- Handled cash and digital transactions efficiently while maintaining professionalism and accuracy under pressure.
- Adapted quickly to changing roles and responsibilities, supporting team coverage in kitchen prep, drive-thru, dining room, and register stations.
- Resolved customer concerns calmly and effectively, contributing to high satisfaction and repeat business.
Community Outreach Volunteer
Guide Dog Foundation
Smithtown
03.2020 - 06.2023
- Organized community events to raise awareness about guide dogs and their benefits.
- Conducted outreach efforts to recruit potential volunteers for various initiatives.
- Provided information and resources to the public regarding guide dog services available.
- Collaborated with other volunteers to plan activities that would benefit those living in underserved areas.
- Solicited donations from local businesses and organizations for fundraising initiatives related to community outreach efforts.
- Participated in various public events to promote awareness of available programs and services.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Animal Sciences
University of Florida
Gainesville, FL05-2027
Associate of Science - Veterinary Technology
Long Island University
Greenvale, NY05-2025
Skills
- Animal care
- Behavioral training
- Customer service
- Team collaboration
- Veterinary assistance
- Event organization
- Attention to detail
Timeline
Mammal Department Assistant
Long Island Aquarium
05.2025 - 08.2025
Veterinary Assistant
Smithtown Village Animal Hospital
03.2025 - 08.2025
Team Member
Chick-fil-A
04.2022 - 12.2024
Community Outreach Volunteer
Guide Dog Foundation
03.2020 - 06.2023
Bachelor of Science - Animal Sciences
University of Florida
Associate of Science - Veterinary Technology
Long Island University
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