Veterinary Technician

JOB SUMMARY

A Veterinary Technician is integral to supporting our veterinary clinic in providing comprehensive medical area for animals. Responsibilities include preparing animals for medical procedures, administering treatments, conducting lab work, maintaining clinic cleanliness and inventory, and ensuring accurate record-keeping. Exceptional customer service is essential in client education and addressing their needs.

RESPONSIBILITIES

The responsibilities listed are not an exhaustive or comprehensive list of all possible responsibilities, tasks, and duties that are required of the position. Responsibilities, tasks, duties, and activities may change, or new ones may be assigned at any time with or without notice. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

• Prepare animal for veterinarian by reviewing animal’s medical records and client’s needs and by taking animal’s vital signs, drawing blood for testing, and preparing and administering vaccines 
• Provide excellent customer service by educating clients and answering questions on available services, general animal care, preventative medications, dietary recommendations, annual vaccines, medication instructions and scheduling appointments
• Process patient prescriptions and medication instructions based on veterinarian’s direction
• Prepare animals for surgery, monitor patients during surgery, and observe during recovery phase
• Clean and disinfect all clinic areas and surgery equipment including but not limited to kennels and cages, exams rooms, linens, sanitization of prep areas, disposing of sharps properly, making surgical packs and sterilizing instruments
• Perform animal lab work including collecting blood, urine, and fecal samples, taking X-rays, and obtaining test results
• Complete all necessary paperwork and data entry of veterinarian notes, services provided, rabies certificates, and other medical records
• Input patient charges, handle financial transactions of services rendered and reconcile receipts
• Use proper animal restraint techniques for the safety and well-being of the animal and the team
• Maintain and organize inventory and restock supplies, as needed
• Perform and assist with other lab testing or medical procedures, as directed
• Assist with other areas of clinic, including reception, as needed
• Support the smooth operation of the animal clinic

QUALIFICATIONS

• High School Diploma or equivalent
• At least 6 months of previous Veterinary Assistant or Veterinary Technician work experience 
• Previous experience working in a veterinary clinic, animal shelter or animal welfare organization, or similar environment preferred
• Basic knowledge of animal handling, general pet care principals, preventative medications, and breed identification
• Certification as Veterinary Technician highly preferred
• Completion of certified Veterinary Assistant program preferred
• At least 6 months of work experience in a team environment preferred
• At least 6 months of customer service experience preferred
• Fear Free certification preferred

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

• Knowledge of and ability to perform tasks on a computer using different software programs
• Ability to work with animals safely and humanely and to remain calm in stressful situations
• Effective verbal, written, and interpersonal communication skills
• Ability to quickly adapt to customer, animal, and business needs
• Ability to collaborate with others and work effectively in a team environment
• Strong attention to detail and ability to focus with distractions
• Skilled in the ability to assess animal behaviors and cues
• Ability to comfortably work with animals, treating them with respect and care, including animals that are difficult to handle and/or stressed
• Excellent ability to use good judgement in problem solving and decision making
• Ability to understand and interpret medical terminology and procedures

PHYSICAL AND MENTAL DEMANDS

• Physical demands include extended periods of standing, walking balancing, reaching, handling, grasping, crouching, and feeling with constant lifting and carrying requirements of up to 25 lbs. 
• Visual acuity and depth perception is required for safe handling of animals
• Work is frequently performed in the small, enclosed spaces such as animal cages
• Work includes providing compassionate and dedicated care to others 
• Work requires the ability to maintain focus and composure while working under pressure, manage stress during difficult situations, and adapt quickly to resolve issues or conflicts
• Work frequently requires critical thinking to solve problems and make decisions that offer the best outcome for the client and Pet Alliance

WORK ENVIRONMENT

• Most work is performed in the animal clinic and medical areas of Pet Alliance which is open and well lit, adequately ventilated, noisy and distracting environment.
• Work environment involves exposure to potentially hazardous materials and situations that require following safety precautions and may include the use of protective equipment.
• The job requires frequent and routinely intense public contact as well as the ability to multi-task under conditions that can be described as extremely fast-paced/high volume and are potentially stressful on a routine basis.