Veterinary Technician

About the role

This position is responsible for providing clinical support to the veterinarians, to include assistance with medical diagnostics and clinical procedures, patient care, laboratory analysis, filling prescriptions, administration of treatments, maintenance of clinical facilities, equipment and medical records.

Responsibilities

• Assist veterinarians during medical procedures including set up and use of equipment and supplies, assisting with chemical or manual restraint, monitoring patients, administration of treatments, production of radiographs, sample collection, record keeping, and observation of patients during recovery, breakdown and clean up after procedure
• Conduct in-house laboratory analysis for hematology, chemistry, serology, cytology, parasitology, bacteriology, and proper sample handling and processing for reference laboratories, long-term storage and research projects
• As directed by the veterinarian, fill prescriptions, administer treatments, and interface with keepers on administration instructions and compliance
• Perform emergency treatment and triage of animals in the absence of the veterinarian and under their remote direction if necessary
• Assist in the daily care of ICU and neonatal patients, following protocols for patient care, monitoring, record keeping and sanitation that have been established by the Senior Veterinary Technician and Director of Veterinary Services
• Follow all safety protocols and comply with regulatory requirements concerning: Disposal of biological products; Inventory of controlled drugs (DEA); Radiation Safety (Federal Radiation and Safety Administration); Protection from zoonotic disease; OSHA
• Stay familiar with and respond appropriately to emergency situations, including: Animal escapes; Potent drug exposures
• Assist in the maintenance of the clinical supply inventory, including stocking and ordering, and in the proper maintenance of medical equipment, sterile supplies and surgical instruments
• Input laboratory and treatment data into computerized medical records database
• Maintain established log books for in-house record keeping

Qualifications

• Must possess working knowledge of: Basic methods and techniques of veterinary clinical procedures; Observational skills for medical procedures and patient monitoring; Basic principles of anatomy, physiology and behavior of a variety of animal species; Basic principles and procedures of safe animal handling and restraint techniques of a variety of animal species; Operational characteristics of veterinary equipment and instruments
• Must possess the ability to: Provide appropriate and timely assistance with medical procedures in a variety of situations and conditions; React appropriately and calmly in emergency situations; Understand and follow written and oral instructions and priorities as set by supervisor; Communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing; Work independently in the absence of immediate supervision; Establish and maintain effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of work; Maintain mental capacity which permits making sound decisions and good judgments, prioritizing work activities, demonstrating intellectual capabilities; Maintain physical condition appropriate to the performance of assigned duties and responsibilities which may include sitting, walking or standing for extended periods of time, working closely with others, operating assigned equipment
• Additional Requirements: Valid driver license with acceptable motor vehicle record to maintain zoo standards of insurability; Proof of negative tuberculosis (TB) screening within previous six months of hire date; Rabies/titers immunization and TB testing as required
• Education and/or Experience: Completion of a zoo technician internship program or; Two years of clinical experience in a private practice or zoological setting and; Graduation from an accredited veterinary technology program and ability to obtain (and maintain) licensed veterinary technician status in the state of Texas within 12 months of commencing employment
• Certificates, Licenses, and/or Registrations: Must obtain veterinary technician licensure in the state of Texas within 12 months of employment.
• Physical Demands: While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to stand; walk; sit; use hands to touch, handle, or feel; reach with hands and arms;