***Anticipated Vacancy***
Teaching Assistant – Veterinary & Animal Science Program
HFM BOCES Career and Technical Education Center
Help Shape the Next Generation of Animal Care and Veterinary Professionals
Are you passionate about animals, agriculture, veterinary science, and helping young people discover meaningful careers? HFM BOCES is seeking an enthusiastic and student-centered Teaching Assistant to support our growing Veterinary & Animal Science Program. This is an exciting opportunity to work alongside dedicated educators, local agribusiness partners, veterinary professionals, and motivated students as they explore careers in animal health, veterinary medicine, agriculture, and related industries.
At HFM BOCES, we believe learning happens through hands-on experiences, industry partnerships, and real-world application. As a Teaching Assistant, you will play an important role in preparing the next generation of animal science and veterinary professionals while helping students build the technical and employability skills needed for success in college and careers.
Position Responsibilities
- Assist the Veterinary & Animal Science instructors with daily classroom, laboratory, and animal care activities.
- Support students during hands-on learning experiences involving animal handling, animal health, veterinary practices, agricultural science, and related coursework.
- Help maintain a safe, organized, and engaging learning environment.
- Assist with the care, monitoring, and management of animals used for instructional purposes.
- Support student learning through individual and small-group instruction under the direction of the teacher.
- Help prepare instructional materials, laboratory equipment, and classroom resources.
- Assist with student supervision during field trips, experiences at local agribusinesses, work-based learning experiences, industry visits, and special events.
- Foster positive relationships with students while encouraging professionalism, responsibility, and workplace readiness.
- Collaborate with local veterinarians, agricultural businesses, animal care professionals, and industry partners to enhance student learning opportunities.
- Support the implementation of employability skills, career exploration activities, and career readiness initiatives.
Why Join HFM BOCES?
- Make a lasting impact on students exploring careers in veterinary medicine, animal science, agriculture, and related industries.
- Work alongside passionate educators and industry professionals.
- Build connections with local farms, veterinary clinics, animal care facilities, agricultural organizations, and agribusinesses throughout the region.
- Be part of a dynamic Career and Technical Education program that emphasizes hands-on learning and workforce development.
- Help students develop the technical skills, confidence, and professional habits needed to succeed in high-demand careers.
Join Our Team
If you are looking for a rewarding opportunity to combine your passion for animals, agriculture, and education while helping shape the future workforce, we encourage you to apply. Come inspire, mentor, and empower the next generation of veterinary and animal science professionals at HFM BOCES.
Desired Qualifications
- New York State Teaching Assistant Certification (or ability to obtain certification).
- Experience working with animals, veterinary practices, agriculture, livestock, equine programs, animal shelters, pet care, or related fields preferred.
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
- Ability to work collaboratively with students, staff, families, and industry partners.
- Passion for mentoring and supporting high school students.
- Commitment to creating an inclusive and supportive learning environment.
TEACH Clearance
Per Regulations of the Commissioner of Education, to be employed in a position designated by a school district or BOCES as involving direct contact with students, a clearance for employment from the State Education Department is required. Formal job offer/selection is contingent on candidate's ability to obtain a fingerprint security clearance through the TEACH system prior to working. For more information: http://www.highered.nysed.gov/tsei/ospra/.
Equal Opportunity / Non-Discrimination
HFM BOCES is committed to equal opportunity in educational programs, admissions and employment. HFM BOCES does not discriminate on the basis of an individual’s actual or perceived race, color, religion, religious practice, national origin, ethnic group, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, political affiliation, age, marital status, military status, veteran status, disability, weight or any other basis prohibited by New York state and/or federal non-discrimination laws in its programs and activities, including admissions and employment, and provides equal access to the Boy Scouts and other designated youth groups. Inquiries regarding the BOCES non-discrimination policies should be directed to Dr. Aaron Bochniak (abochniak@hfmboces.org), Assistant Superintendent for BOCES Operations and Component District Services, (518) 736-4305, HFM BOCES, 2755 State Highway 67, Johnstown, NY 12095. Inquiries may also be addressed to the Office for Civil Rights at the US Department of Education, 32 Old Slip, 26th Floor, New York, NY 10005, 646-428-3800, OCR.NewYork@ed.gov. (Revised 9/2020)