Veterinary Technician I

About This Role

The Veterinary Technician I is responsible for the care of animals, ensuring humane living conditions and providing basic medical treatments, often requiring shift rotations and emergency response.

Responsibilities

• Administer basic medical treatments, including vaccinations, deworming agents, and parasiticides
• Take and record TPR (temperature, pulse, respiration)
• Collect diagnostic samples (blood, fecal, urine, ear cytology, skin cytology)
• Perform basic diagnostic procedures and document results (heartworm antigen tests, fecal examinations, urinalysis, skin scrapes)
• Clean and maintain laboratory equipment
• Assist with restraining, sedation, and preparations for medical procedures
• Transfer animals to and from kennel/cattery areas during stray holds and quarantine periods
• Observe and record detailed information in medical records regarding animal symptoms and promptly notify management of suspected contagious diseases
• Prepare and record medical histories, procedures, and pertinent medical information in written records or shelter software
• Perform decapitation of deceased animals suspected of having rabies and prepare/package samples for transport
• Maintain a working inventory of veterinary medical supplies, medications, equipment, food, and cleaning items
• Transport animals to offsite locations including adoption events, fundraising events, other shelters, and veterinary clinics
• Provide assistance and information to customers concerning adoption policies and medical discharge information
• Work with outside professionals to determine sick and injured animals for euthanization
• Respond to disasters and emergencies as directed by Animal Care and Control Director
• Assist with feeding and cleaning of animals, including providing fresh food/water and sanitizing kennel areas
• Perform Euthanasia of animals

Requirements

• High school diploma or GED equivalent
• 3+ years experience in animal behavior, animal handling/husbandry, biology, herd health management, laboratory technician, phlebotomy, pre-medical, pre-veterinary or veterinary technician OR veterinary technician certification from an accredited institution
• Euthanasia Certification within six (6) months of hire
• Valid Class E Drivers License
• Knowledge of methods, policies and procedures of the Department and County as they pertain to the performance duties of the Veterinary Technician I
• Knowledge of functions and interrelationships of the County and other Governmental agencies
• Knowledge in the laws, ordinances, standards and regulations pertaining to the specific duties and responsibilities of the position
• Knowledge of codes and regulations related to Animal Control enforcement
• Ability to safely handle, transport and restrain an animal for examination
• Ability to correctly identify a variety of domestic and wild animals, including breed, age, temperament, gender and spay/neuter status where applicable
• Knowledge and understanding of basic medical terminology, abbreviations and orders
• Ability to recognize via observation potential medical issues
• Knowledge of humane euthanasia equipment, supplies, practices and procedures
• Ability to apply current euthanasia practices and procedures to perform safe, humane euthanasia of animals as required
• Knowledge of common drug names and a basic understanding of drug classes and most common clinical uses
• Ability to safely use and apply animal handling and restraint techniques and equipment on animals up to or over 50lbs
• Ability to draw blood, collect fecal/urine samples, observe and record TPR as appropriate
• Ability to administer medications at the appropriate dose via oral, subcutaneous, intravenous, or rectal route as directed by a veterinarian
• Ability to perform decapitation of deceased animals suspected of having rabies using appropriate personal protective equipment
• Ability to communicate in English, including the ability to read, write and comprehend oral or written instructions/directions given in English
• Ability to accurately perform basic mathematical calculations using whole numbers, decimals, and unit conversions
• Ability to plan, organize and prioritize daily assignments and work activities
• Ability to learn and utilize new skills and information to improve job performance and efficiency
• Knowledge of proper English usage, punctuation, spelling and grammar
• Ability to read and interpret materials pertaining to the responsibilities of the job
• Ability to assemble and analyze information and make written reports and records in a concise, clear and effective manner
• Ability to maintain effective relationships with co-workers and personnel in other departments, professionals and members of the public through contact and cooperation
• Knowledge of the occupational hazards and safety precautions of the industry
• Ability to react calmly and quickly in emergency situations

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED equivalent
• 3+ years experience in animal behavior, handling/husbandry, biology, herd health management, laboratory technician, phlebotomy, pre-medical, pre-veterinary or veterinary technician

Certifications