Surgery Veterinary Technician CVT RVT LVT

DoveLewis Veterinary Emergency and Specialty Hospital is seeking full-time Credentialed Veterinary Technicians to join our new Appointment-Based Surgery team.

As a Veterinary Technician on the Appointment-Based Surgery team you will guide the preparation and flow of elective surgical cases to support efficient, accurate, and high-quality patient care in partnership with the attending surgeon. This role provides advanced veterinary nursing before, during, and after surgery in compliance with the attending veterinarian's directives and the Oregon Veterinary Practice Act.

The Appointment-Based Surgery Technician acts as a key liaison among surgeons, staff, and clients to ensure clear communication and a well-coordinated surgical experience. This role also helps guide, direct, oversee, and educate Veterinary Assistants working with the team.

Success in this position requires a proactive approach to patient care as well as strong technical knowledge of surgical procedures and protocols. A genuine love and respect for all animals is essential, as is an appreciation for the human-animal bond.

What you can look forward to at DoveLewis:

• Utilizing your license to its fullest potential, whether you are a CVT, LVT, or RVT we know you worked hard for your education and are excited to use it to support patients with top quality medicine.

• Regular Continuing Education with in-house CE and access to professional learning funds.

• AA or BA/BS degree from accredited veterinary technician program required

• Advancing your surgery and anesthesia skills while working alongside a highly skilled team.

• VTS pathway support for credentialed technicians seeking to specialize, with mentorship from experienced VTS team members.

• Collaborating across multiple specialties, including ECC, Neurology, Cardiology, Internal Medicine, Surgery, Exotics, Hospice, Pain Management, Urgent Care, and Diagnostic Imaging.

Wage: This position qualifies for 10-15% weekend differential pay and 12% overnight differential pay for applicable shifts.

• $28-$36 hourly for Certified Veterinary Technicians (or other license type that is transferable to Oregon)
• $38-$44 hourly for Veterinary Technician Specialists

Other Benefits + Compensation:

• Equitable health benefits (medical, dental, vision, $0 mental health copays, LGBTQIA+ affirming care).
• 403(b) retirement plan with company match and free financial advising
• Student debt repayment assistance for all employees
• Paid vacation, sick time, holiday pay, and bereavement leave (including time off when a pet family member passes away).
• Continuing education support including license reimbursement, professional dues assistance, and access to atDove — over 100 hours of on-demand, RACE-approved CE content.
• A nonprofit mission that makes your work meaningful every day.

What are we looking for in a candidate?

Experience + Education:

• Related experience in elective surgical and orthopedic procedures preferred.

• Current status as a Certified Veterinary Technician in the state of Oregon is required. Alternate forms of credentialed Veterinary Technicians (e.g. Licensed Veterinary Technician, Registered Veterinary Technician, credentialed Veterinary Nurse) with the ability to transfer license to Oregon are also acceptable.

• High school diploma or equivalent required

Any suitable combination of experience or education may substitute for the above.

Knowledge, Skills, + Abilities:

• Adaptable, lifelong learners who are eager to face new challenges every day and actively participate in our teaching hospital culture.

• A commitment to providing both patients and clients with the highest standard of care at a client-centered hospital.

• The ability to handle stressful situations in a fast-paced environment with compassion, efficiency, and flexibility.

• Knowledge of veterinary practice and safety measures.

• Working knowledge in technical skills required to nurse emergency and critically ill animals.

• Working knowledge of veterinary computer systems to input charges and other client/animal information.

• Knowledge in general janitorial and cleaning methods.

• Teamwork and interpersonal skills to work in cooperative and close fashion within critical care environment.

• Caring customer service skills.

• Skilled in decision making in order to follow through on prescribed medications, animal monitoring, team, and other decisions.

• Ability to accurately record medications and inventory and ability to calculate dosages of medication.

• Ability to work in stressful situations associated with high volume, urgent care animal practice where accuracy, organization, and flexibility is needed at all times.

• Ability to have a flexible schedule and work varied shifts as needed, including holidays and on-call.

• Knowledge of professional workplace etiquette, including communication protocols, confidentiality, and collaboration practices in in-person environments.

• Familiarity with conflict resolution and customer service principles when interacting directly with clients and colleagues.

• Strong verbal communication and active listening skills to ensure clarity and understanding in face-to-face interactions.

• Ability to manage time and prioritize tasks effectively in a shared workspace with competing demands.

• Skilled in observing non-verbal cues and adjusting approach accordingly to build trust and rapport.

• Proficient at using workplace technology and tools in an in-person setting.

• Ability to adapt quickly to changes in schedule, priorities, or team needs in a physical work environment.

• Ability to maintain professionalism under pressure, including during direct client or stakeholder interactions.

• Ability to foster collaboration and teamwork through presence, accountability, and consistent engagement on site.

The Pacific Northwest Advantage:

With the ocean an hour away to the west and mountains an hour away to the east, Portland is an epicenter for outdoor enthusiasts and animal lovers like you. Enjoy:

• Portland's mix of historic small-city vibes with modern amenities and stunning natural beauty
• Quick access to the Columbia River Gorge for waterfalls, hikes and scenic views
• A vibrant food scene with everything from fun food carts to top-tier restaurants
• Reliable public transit and extensive bike lanes for easy commuting
• Access to the largest forested park within U.S. city limits
• Year-round farmers' markets, craft breweries, coffee spots, and a vibrant local wine scene

How to apply:

To be considered for this position, you must complete the online application and upload a resume.

DoveLewis is an equal opportunity employer dedicated to workforce diversity and a drug-free workplace. Pre-employment background and drug screen for illegal substances is required.