Veterinary Technician

Position Summary

The Veterinary Technician plays a critical role in delivering high-quality medical care and ensuring efficient hospital workflow. This position supports veterinarians in examinations, diagnostics, surgery, and patient care while maintaining excellent communication with clients and team members.

A successful technician is detail-oriented, compassionate, efficient, and proactive in supporting doctors and maintaining hospital productivity.

Key Responsibilities
Patient Care

• Safely restrain animals for exams and procedures
• Obtain accurate patient histories
• Monitor patient comfort and safety during hospitalization
• Administer medications as prescribed
• Assist with treatments and nursing care
• Monitor hospitalized and recovering patients
• Recognize changes in patient condition and report promptly to the veterinarian

Diagnostic Support

• Collect laboratory samples including blood, urine, and fecal samples
• Perform in-house laboratory testing
• Prepare and process samples for reference laboratories
• Take and position patients for radiographs
• Assist with ultrasound and advanced diagnostics

Surgical and Dental Assistance

• Prepare patients for surgery including clipping, scrubbing, and IV catheter placement
• Induce and monitor anesthesia
• Monitor vital signs during procedures
• Assist veterinarians during surgical procedures
• Clean, sterilize, and maintain surgical instruments
• Assist with dental procedures including radiographs and cleanings

Doctor Support & Efficiency

Technicians are expected to help maximize doctor productivity by:

• Preparing exam rooms before appointments
• Obtaining accurate patient histories
• Assisting during exams
• Preparing vaccines and medications
• Entering charges and treatment plans into the medical record
• Educating clients on treatment plans and home care
• Ensuring exam rooms are quickly reset for the next patient

Client Communication

• Provide clear and compassionate communication with clients
• Review treatment plans and estimates
• Demonstrate medication administration and home care instructions
• Return client calls regarding diagnostics when directed by the veterinarian
• Support client education regarding preventative care

Hospital Maintenance & Team Support

• Maintain clean and organized treatment areas
• Assist with laundry and hospital cleanliness
• Restock supplies and exam rooms
• Support other team members when needed
• Follow all OSHA and hospital safety protocols

Required Skills

• Strong patient handling skills
• Ability to multitask in a fast-paced environment
• Excellent communication and client service skills
• Strong attention to detail
• Ability to anticipate doctor needs
• Team-oriented mindset
• Ability to maintain efficiency while delivering excellent patient care

Preferred Qualifications

• Certified/Licensed Veterinary Technician (CVT/LVT) preferred
• Previous veterinary hospital experience
• Knowledge of veterinary software systems (EzyVet, SmartFlow preferred)
• Experience with anesthesia monitoring
• Experience with radiology and laboratory diagnostics

Work Environment

This position requires the ability to:

• Lift up to 50 lbs
• Stand for extended periods
• Work in a fast-paced medical environment
• Safely handle animals of varying sizes and temperaments

What Makes a Great Technician at CareVet of Shoreline

A successful technician:

Supports doctors efficiently
Anticipates needs before being asked
Moves with urgency while maintaining quality care
Communicates clearly with clients and teammates
Takes ownership of patient care from start to finish