Veterinary Technician Lead

Veterinary Technician Lead

The Veterinary Technician Lead is a key member of the Veterinary Services team at BCUS, providing clinical and technical support to the Veterinarians and assisting with the training of both new and existing staff. This position collaborates with the Veterinary Technician Supervisor to monitor staff performance and recommend training initiatives as necessary. This role is responsible for ensuring the delivery of high-quality animal care, fostering team accountability, and promoting adherence to institutional and regulatory guidelines. This position requires strong technical and clinical expertise, proactive communication and effective team collaboration in a dynamic work environment.

Veterinary & Clinical Support

• Assist veterinarians with examinations, treatments, surgical procedures, diagnostics and sample collection.
• Perform advanced veterinary technical procedures including anesthesia monitoring, medication administration, catheter placement, and patient recovery.
• Monitor animal health and behavior, promptly communicating abnormalities to the veterinary team.
• Ensure accurate and timely documentation of medical procedures, treatments, and observations.

Technical Leadership & Staff Development

• Assist the Sr. Veterinary Technicians and Technical Trainer train and orient new Veterinary Technicians and assist with the training of existing staff.
• Mentor technicians by demonstrating proper techniques, reinforcing best practices, and promoting continuous learning.
• Promoted teamwork, accountability, professionalism, and effective communication within the department.

Compliance & Quality Assurance

• Ensure adherence to institutional policies, SOPs, IACUC protocols, USDA, AAALAC standards, and all applicable animal welfare requirements.
• Maintain complete and accurate clinical records and procedural documentation.
• Assist with internal audits and inspections.

Facility & Operational Support

• Promote proper sanitation, infection control, biosecurity practices throughout the veterinary areas.
• Assist with emergency response protocols and care during off-hour or high-priority situations.
• Work may include weekends, holidays, or on call-shifts
• Perform other duties as assigned to support business operations and continuous improvement.

Education & Experience

• High school diploma or equivalent required
• Associate degree in Veterinary Technology or related field preferred.
• Minimum of 2 years of progressively responsible veterinary technician experience required.
• ALAT or LAT Certification preferred.

Skills/Abilities

• Demonstrated proficiency in advanced veterinary technical procedures, anesthesia monitoring, sample collection, medication administration, and laboratory techniques.
• Experience administering medications through intravenous (IV), intradermal (ID), subcutaneous (SQ), intramuscular (IM), and oral routes.
• Strong knowledge of animal husbandry, animal welfare regulations, and laboratory animal medicine.
• Ability to mentor, train, and develop technical staff in a supportive and professional manner.
• Excellent observational skills with the ability to recognize subtle changes in animal health and behavior.
• Strong critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent verbal, written, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Ability to organize work, prioritize multiple responsibilities, and function effectively in a fast-paced environment.
• Demonstrated professionalism, integrity, and commitment to compassionate animal care.
• Ability to lift and maneuver animals and veterinary equipment safely while maintaining attention to detail and safety.
• Bilingual English/Spanish preferred

Physical Requirements

• Proof of measles vaccination or updated titers prior to initial contact with animals.
• Current results of TB testing or be tested prior to initial contact with animals. Annual tuberculosis screening is required of all employees.
• Personnel must be able to carry out the essential functions of this position with reasonable accommodation if disabled.
• Prolonged periods sitting/standing; frequent walking between buildings; lift/move up to 25 lb. (supplies, boxes).

Environmental Working Conditions

• Potential exposure to disinfectants, chemicals, biologics, infectious agents (BSL1, BSL2), animal dander, and dust.
• Normal scientific laboratory conditions may work with hazardous materials and unpleasant odors.