Vet Technician

Veterinary Technician

The Veterinary Technician's primary role is to support and assist the doctors of the hospital. The Veterinary Technician will begin the physical examination and continue to assist the doctor throughout the examination, diagnosis and treatment phases of the pet's visit. Vet Techs will also interact closely with clients communicating general information, home care and other information in regards to the pet's care.

Essential duties and responsibilities include performing all duties in accordance with government regulations and hospital policies and procedures. Prepares and maintains the exam rooms and treatment areas. Assists the doctor in medical, surgical and dental procedures; prepares patients for surgery; assists the doctor in administering anesthetics; monitors patients during surgery and recovery; administers fluids. Gives injections and administers oral medications. Performs emergency procedures such as control of bleeding, resuscitation with oxygen, and external cardiac massage. Assists in restraining pets when necessary. Performs clinical laboratory procedures such as fecal flotation exams, heartworm checks, skin scrapings, urinalysis, and fungal cultures; draws blood for laboratory analysis; maintains file of lab test results and ensures that test results are recorded in patient records. Takes radiographs and performs EKGs. Admits and discharges patients on the doctor's orders. Counsels clients on various aspects of animal care; explains dosage/purpose of medications; reinforces the proper care and procedures that should be followed at home; makes follow-up calls to clients. Understands usage and dosage for commonly used prescription drugs including heartworm preventative and prescription flea control products and can readily explain them to clients. Properly cleans all surgical materials after they are used; keeps the operating room stocked and prepared for surgery. Maintains an appropriate inventory of all drugs and medical supplies. Assists other staff members as required. Performs other duties as determined by the doctors. Prepares estimates for clients.

Preferred education and experience includes a high school diploma or equivalent and previous veterinary practice experience. Competencies include compassion and empathy, technical capacity, ability to carry out verbal and written directions, strong communication skills, ability to stay calm and efficient during times of high tension, collaboration and teamwork.

Computer skills to perform this job successfully include knowledge of MS Excel spreadsheet software and MS Word; MS PowerPoint word processing software. Previous experience with veterinary practice software is a plus.

Travel requirements for this position include no travel expected. Physical demands include sitting and talking or hearing, standing and walking, lifting and/or moving up to 40 pounds, and specific vision abilities including close vision, color vision and ability to adjust focus.

Job type is full-time with a salary range of $22.00 - $30.00 per hour. Benefits include 401(k), dental insurance, employee discount, flexible spending account, health insurance, health savings account, paid time off, and vision insurance. Schedule includes an 8 hour shift Monday to Friday with weekend availability. Supplemental pay types include a signing bonus available. Experience required includes one year of veterinary experience and one year of veterinary technicians experience.