Veterinary Medical Oncology Assistant
Veterinary Care & Specialty Group (VCSG) is Chattanooga's largest multi-specialty and emergency hospital, where compassionate care meets cutting-edge medicine. We are committed to providing exceptional specialty and emergency care while fostering a supportive and collaborative team environment.
About the role
We're looking for a compassionate, sensitive, and patient veterinary technician who loves to make a difference. This high-touch position involves extensive client interaction, requiring empathy and the ability to calmly discuss topics with pet parents. You will work alongside experienced Medical Oncologists and other compassionate veterinary professionals, playing a vital role in diagnosing and treating cancer using advanced tools such as ultrasound, biopsies, cytology, and radiology, while administering or assisting with chemotherapy and palliative treatments.
Responsibilities
- Chemotherapy Treatment Support: Monitor for treatment side effects and educate clients on post-treatment care.
- Patient Monitoring & Support: Oversee oncology patients during treatment, including while under general anesthesia, administer pain management, and provide supportive care.
- Advanced Diagnostic Procedures: Assist with fine needle aspirations, biopsies, cytology, and histopathology.
- Client Communication & Education: Guide pet owners through treatment options, provide clear instructions on at-home care, and offer emotional support.
- Record Keeping & Treatment Plans: Maintain accurate electronic medical records and collaborate with oncologists to update treatment plans.
- Pain Management & Palliative Care: Administer pain relief and comfort care for patients in all stages of cancer.
- Oncology Team Collaboration: Work closely with board-certified oncologists and other specialists to ensure coordinated care.
Requirements
- 2 to 3 years of experience as a veterinary assistant with oncology or internal medicine experience (preferred).
- Advanced venipuncture and IV catheter placement experience.
- Anesthesia and sedation monitoring.
- Medication calculations and administration (IV, IM, SQ, oral).
- Safe handling and restraint of dogs and cats, including fractious patients.
- Competence with electronic medical record keeping (Instinct).
- Excellent communication skills with clients, team members, and veterinarians.
- Calm, organized, and proactive in a fast-paced, high-stress environment.
- Strong critical thinking and problem-solving abilities.
- Dependable with excellent follow-through on cases and attention to detail.
- Eagerness to learn new skills.
Benefits
- Competitive wage.
- Generous paid time off.
- Medical, dental, and vision benefits.
- Employer-funded HSA.
- Paid family leave.
- 401(k) with company match.
- Continuing education allowance.
- Pet care benefits.
About Us
Our hospital is located in the up-and-coming Southside Neighborhood in Chattanooga at the base of Lookout Mountain, next to the beautiful Tennessee River Park and the new baseball stadium. The area offers various restaurants, breweries, and entertainment venues.
We are committed to training and growth, providing in-person didactic, hands-on, and virtual learning. Our hospital was built with the highest level of care in mind, featuring the latest equipment and technology alongside board-certified specialists across multiple disciplines. We offer a supportive environment that fosters personal and professional development.