The Veterinary Technician assists the veterinarians to the fullest possible extent, to help improve the quality of care given to the patients, and to aid the veterinarians in achieving greater efficiency by relieving them of technical work at Cayuga Veterinary Services.

The Veterinary Technician assists in multiple procedures providing care for cats including physical examinations, dental procedures, surgeries, immunizations, euthanasia as well as client education. This position requires a working knowledge of pharmaceutical drugs, common diseases; their symptoms, means of transmission, treatment and prevention, and other basic preventative health care recommendations. This is an overview of the position and the job responsibilities listed do not encompass the entire position. The Veterinary Technician is under the direct guidance of the Lead Veterinary Technician, Hospital Manager, and Managing Veterinarian (MDVM).

PRIMARY JOB RESPONSIBILITIES

·       Obtain and accurately record patient histories.

·       Collect specimens and perform routine laboratory procedures and tests in hematology, biochemistry, chemistry, microbiology, urinalysis, and serology to assist in the diagnosis and treatment of cat health problems.

·       Dispense and administer medications, vaccines, serums and treatments as prescribed by veterinarians.

·       Administer fluids and blood products as prescribed by the veterinarian.

·       Administer and monitor anesthesia under the direction of a veterinarian.

·       Provide specialized nursing care for injured or ill animals.

·       Prepare patients, instruments and equipment for surgery.

·       Assure that monitoring and support equipment such as anesthetic machines, monitors, and breathing apparatus are in good working condition.

·       Assist in diagnostic, medical and surgical procedures using a range of high-tech diagnostic equipment including electrocardiographic, radiographic, and ultrasonographic equipment.

·       Take and process radiographs.

·       Communicate with and educate owners.

·       Maintain knowledge of preventative healthcare recommendations in order to answer client questions, provide education on vaccines, flea and heartworm products, and assist in marketing veterinary services from which their cat would benefit.

·       Educate clients on products and medications sold including dietary products and answer questions regarding product purchase/use.

·       Maintain inventory of pharmaceuticals, equipment and supplies.

·       Clean, maintain and sterilize instruments, equipment, and materials.

·       Knowledgeable regarding related federal and state animal health laws and regulations including OSHA and DEA. Ensure that the hospital and its employees are in compliance with regulation. Inform the veterinary hospital administrator of any regulatory issues.

·       Work well with all team members and ensure that your actions support the hospital, the veterinarians, and the practice philosophy.

·       Maintain a high level of confidentiality in regard to clients/patients, hospital policies and proprietary information and follow IT Security protocols.                                 

·       Perform other duties as assigned.

CONTROLS OVER WORK

The Veterinary Technician works under the direct supervision of the Lead Veterinary Technician who will indicate general assignments, limitations and priorities. Recurring assignments are performed independently. Deviations or unfamiliar situations are referred to the Lead. Completed work is reviewed for technical accuracy and compliance with established procedures.

SKILLS AND KNOWLEDGE

·       Must obtain 24 hours of continuing education every three years in accordance with New York State Law to maintain licensure.

·       Knowledge of the procedures used for receiving, treating, and scheduling patients, for ordering medical supplies, and requesting laboratory tests.

·       Knowledge of the use, care, and storage of veterinary instruments, materials, and equipment.

·       Knowledge of sterilization techniques to sterilize various instruments and materials.

·       Knowledge of the instruments, materials, and standardized procedures used in the full variety of treatments to make preparation and provide “tableside” assistance.

·       Knowledge of principles and processes for providing client and personal services. This includes client needs assessment, meeting quality standards for services, and evaluation of client satisfaction.

·       Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition, and grammar.

·       Ability to work independently on assigned tasks as well as to accept direction on given assignments.

·       Critical thinking – Understanding the logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems.

PHYSICAL EFFORT

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the primary functions of this job.

·       Frequently required to bend, stand, stoop, walk, sit, talk, and listen, frequently working in a bent position.

·       Frequently use hands to manipulate, handle, or feel; will reach with hands and arms.

·       Use strength and agility in capturing and restraining stronger, more active animals.

·       Frequently lift and/or move up to 30 pounds. Assistance will be provided when lifting over 30 pounds.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is exposed to hazards associated with aggressive patients; hazards associated with infected animal and controlled substances; exposure to unpleasant odors and noises; exposure to bites, scratches and animal wastes; possible exposure to contagious diseases.

Follow federal and state animal health laws and regulations including OSHA and DEA.

Pay Scale: $23-$30/hr DOE