Veterinary Technician Job DescriptionPosition Summary
At Homestead Animal Hospital, our Veterinary Technicians are an essential part of our medical team and play a critical role in providing high-quality patient care. Veterinary Technicians work alongside our veterinarians to support medical procedures, diagnostics, patient care, client education, and daily hospital operations.
The ideal candidate is compassionate, detail-oriented, dependable, and committed to providing exceptional care to every patient. Our Veterinary Technicians are expected to demonstrate strong medical knowledge, excellent communication skills, and the ability to work collaboratively in a fast-paced veterinary environment.
Essential ResponsibilitiesPatient Care & Medical Support
- Provide compassionate and safe care to hospitalized, surgical, and outpatient patients.
- Perform patient assessments including temperature, pulse, respiration, pain scoring, weight, and overall patient evaluation.
- Obtain and document accurate patient histories.
- Monitor hospitalized patients and communicate changes in condition to the veterinarian.
- Administer medications, vaccines, fluids, and treatments as directed by the veterinarian.
- Calculate medication dosages accurately and prepare medications under supervision of a veterinarian.
- Place intravenous catheters and maintain IV catheter care.
- Collect blood, urine, fecal, and other diagnostic samples.
- Perform venipuncture and assist with laboratory diagnostics.
- Run in-house laboratory tests including bloodwork, urinalysis, cytology, and other diagnostics as trained.
- Prepare and submit outside laboratory samples.
- Perform patient restraint using proper low-stress and Fear Free handling techniques.
- Assist with patient recovery and monitoring after procedures.
Surgery & Anesthesia Responsibilities
- Prepare surgical patients including catheter placement, surgical preparation, and anesthesia setup.
- Assist veterinarians during surgical procedures.
- Monitor anesthesia under veterinarian supervision.
- Record anesthetic monitoring parameters accurately.
- Prepare surgical instruments and equipment.
- Maintain sterile technique throughout surgical procedures.
- Recover surgical patients safely and monitor until discharge.
- Clean, sterilize, and maintain surgical instruments and equipment.
Appointment & Treatment Responsibilities
- Prepare exam rooms before appointments.
- Obtain patient history and communicate concerns to the veterinarian.
- Assist veterinarians during examinations and procedures.
- Educate clients on medications, treatments, preventative care, and home care instructions as directed by the veterinarian.
- Perform technician appointments as assigned, including:
- Nail trims
- Ear cleanings
- Anal gland expressions
- Bandage changes
- Injection appointments
- Blood draws
- Other technician-approved services
- Maintain accurate medical records and documentation.
Patient Communication & Client Service
- Communicate with clients in a professional, compassionate, and respectful manner.
- Explain treatment plans and home care instructions clearly.
- Provide updates to clients regarding hospitalized patients as directed.
- Address client questions within scope of practice and involve the veterinarian when appropriate.
- Build trust with clients through excellent communication and patient advocacy.
- Represent with professionalism and kindness.
Hospital Operations & Team Support
- Maintain clean, organized, and fully stocked treatment areas.
- Clean and disinfect equipment, kennels, exam rooms, and treatment spaces.
- Maintain inventory levels and notify leadership when supplies are needed.
- Properly handle controlled substances according to hospital protocols.
- Follow OSHA safety standards and hospital infection-control procedures.
- Complete medical records accurately and promptly.
- Assist with opening and closing duties.
- Participate in staff meetings, training, and continuing education opportunities.
- Support teammates and assist other departments when needed.
Leadership & Professional Expectations
- Demonstrate professionalism, accountability, and a positive attitude.
- Arrive prepared and ready to provide excellent patient care.
- Communicate effectively with doctors, technicians, assistants, kennel staff, and client service representatives.
- Take initiative and assist with improving hospital workflow.
- Accept coaching and feedback with a willingness to grow.
- Maintain confidentiality regarding patient and client information.
- Follow all <HOSPITAL NAME> policies and procedures.
- Treat every patient as if they were your own pet.
Qualifications
- Strong knowledge of veterinary terminology, medications, and procedures.
- Excellent patient handling and restraint skills.
- Ability to multitask and prioritize in a fast-paced environment.
- Strong attention to detail and organizational skills.
- Excellent communication and teamwork abilities.
- Compassionate, dependable, and committed to quality patient care.
Physical Requirements
This position requires the ability to:
- Stand and walk for extended periods.
- Lift and carry up to 50 pounds independently and over 50 pounds with assistance.
- Safely restrain animals of various sizes and temperaments.
- Bend, squat, kneel, reach, and perform repetitive tasks.
- Work around animal hair, odors, bodily fluids, medications, and cleaning products.
- Handle stressful situations while maintaining professionalism.
- Work flexible schedules including weekends, holidays, and emergency situations as needed.
Only serious, experienced candidates, please.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $16.00 - $18.00 per hour
Benefits:
- Dental insurance
- Health insurance
- Paid time off
- Professional development assistance
- Uniform allowance
- Vision insurance
Work Location: In person
