VETERINARY TECHNICIAN

Veterinary Assistant/Technician Animal Services FLSA: N JOB SUMMARY The Veterinary Assistant is responsible for assisting with general veterinary care of animals in the shelters care, including animals in foster care. The normal work schedule is 8:00 am – 5:00 pm Tuesday through Saturday or 8:00 am – 5:00 pm Sunday through Thursday based on current needs. A modified holiday schedule on a rotation basis is required. After hours are required occasionally for special events or emergencies. MAJOR DUTIES Maintains updated medical records regarding any medical treatments performed, in accordance with state and shelter regulations. Administers vaccinations, medications, and microchips under the guidance of the Shelter Veterinarian, performs diagnostics and laboratory tests. Assists with animal handling, medical treatments, surgery preparation and recovery. Communicates and coordinates with local veterinary hospitals to schedule appointments and discuss treatment plans, as well as inputs medical records. Transports animals to and from veterinary appointments as needed. Assists with inventory of medical supplies; orders supplies as needed. Assists with general clean-up and restocking of veterinary areas. Provides veterinary consultations to adopters as needed. Performs and assists with euthanasia. Participates in rabies and microchip clinics or special events. Assists with animal health assessments upon intake to the shelter as needed. Attends Continuing Education and other necessary trainings. Performs other related duties as assigned. KNOWLEDGE REQUIRED BY THE POSITION Knowledge of the symptoms of animal diseases. Knowledge of animal vaccinations and medications. Knowledge of medical terminology and animal anatomy. Knowledge of No Kill philosophy and programs. Skill in the vaccination of domestic animals. Skill in the safe handling of animals with unknown behavior histories, and the ability to utilize appropriate safety equipment when needed. Skill in the use of computers and job-related software programs. Skill in oral and written communication. SUPERVISORY CONTROLS The Shelter Veterinarian assigns work in terms of general instructions. The Shelter Veterinarian spot-checks completed work for compliance with procedures, accuracy, and the nature and propriety of the final results. GUIDELINES Guidelines include North Carolina Department of Agriculture guidelines, Shelter Veterinarians orders, and county and department policies and procedures. These guidelines are generally clear and specific but may require some interpretation in application. COMPLEXITY/SCOPE OF WORK Work is performed in a fast-paced environment and requires the ability to prioritize and multitask. The purpose of this position is to perform technical duties in the provision of veterinary care of domestic animals and may also include livestock and exotic animals. Successful performance contributes to the health and proper care of animals. CONTACTS Contacts are typically with co-workers, other county employees, veterinarians, veterinary support staff, volunteers, and members of the general public. Contacts are typically to give or exchange information, resolve problems, and provide services. PHYSICAL DEMANDS/ WORK ENVIRONMENT The work is typically performed while intermittently sitting, standing, crouching, or stooping. The employee routinely lifts heavy objects, uses tools or equipment requiring a high degree of dexterity, distinguishes between shades of color, and utilizes the sense of smell. The work is typically performed in an office, animal shelter, and outdoors, occasionally in cold or inclement weather. The employee may be exposed to noise, contagious or infectious diseases, irritating chemicals, and potentially dangerous animals. The employee uses protective devices such as masks, goggles, gloves, etc. SUPERVISORY AND MANAGEMENT RESPONSIBILITY None. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS Registered Veterinary Technician preferred, but not required. Compensation based on experience and credentials. Ability to read, write and perform mathematical calculations at a level commonly associated with the completion of high school or equivalent. Sufficient experience to understand the basic principles relevant to the major duties of the position, usually associated with the completion of an apprenticeship/internship or having had a similar position for one to two years. Possession of or ability to readily obtain a valid driver’s license issued by the State of North Carolina for the type of vehicle or equipment operated. Certified Rabies Vaccinator certification (obtain within 6 months). Certified Euthanasia Technician Certification (ability to obtain within 6 months Experience assisting with surgical prep, monitoring and recovery preferred but not required. Ability to multitask and adapt to high stress situations. Position Schedule: Tuesday - Saturday from 8am to 5pm. #J-18808-Ljbffr