Registered Veterinary Technician

Position Description

Title: Registered Veterinary Technician

Reporting to: Animal Health Coordinator

Status: Full-time, Contract (12 months)

Compensation Range: $23.00-$27.00/hour

POSITION SUMMARY:

We are seeking to fill a 12-month vacancy, with the possibility of extension to up to 18 months based on organizational needs.

Reporting to the Animal Health Coordinator, the Registered Veterinary Technician plays a crucial role in the health and well-being of the animals in our care. They are responsible for performing intakes and examinations, administering treatments and medications, and performing diagnostic tests on animals within PHS. This role collaborates with the Animal Health team to develop treatment plans, manage animal records, and ensure that all animals receive the necessary medical attention. The successful candidate must be able to work weekends/evenings, and be readily available on short notice, if required.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Supervisory

• Support the Animal Health Coordinator in the supervision of the animal care team
• Ensure animal care staff and volunteers observe general and occupational safety protocols and ensure a safe work environment Health Monitoring, Animal Care, and Administration
• Perform intakes, examinations, administer treatments and medications, and perform diagnostic tests on animals within PHS
• Provide support to the Animal Health Coordinator by monitoring animal health, completing daily rounds, creating daily task lists, and ensuring adequate animal flow within PHS
• Provide support in providing daily husbandry duties for animals in the shelter as required

Record Keeping

• Maintain accurate and detailed medical records for all patients, including treatment plans, medications, and progress notes in the animal care software system Diagnostic Testing
• Perform and assist with diagnostic tests such as blood draws, radiographs, ultrasounds, and laboratory tests

Client Education

• Educate pet owners about their pets’ health, treatment plans, and general animal care
• Provide support and information during intake and discharge
• Support the Animal Health Coordinator in their community outreach efforts, including coordination of medical adoptions and foster placements

Biosecurity

• Ensure infection control and biosecurity procedures are followed for the premises, animal housing units and equipment used within the centre

Inventory Management

• Assist in maintaining inventory of medical supplies, vaccines, and animal food

General

• Work in compliance with all centre policies and procedures
• Work in compliance with the Occupational Health and Safety Act
• Advocate for, and continuously embody the Mission, Vision, and Values of the Peterborough Humane Society

QUALIFICATIONS

Education and Certification

• Successful completion of an accredited Veterinary Technician program
• Registered and in good standing with OAVT

Experience

• Experience as a Registered Veterinary Technician within a clinic or shelter setting (shelter preferred)
• Previous relevant experience in animal shelter environment in a leadership capacity, including scheduling, supervising, and mentoring staff
• Demonstrated experience in performing diagnostic tests, administering treatments, and providing animal care
• Must have experience in providing support during humane care euthanasia

Skills

• Strong leadership and team management skills
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills for interacting with staff, volunteers, and customers
• Proficiency in performing intakes, examinations, administering treatments, and conducting diagnostic tests
• Ability to educate pet owners about animal health, treatment plans, and general care
• Strong organizational skills with attention to detail in maintaining health records and inventory management

Knowledge

• In-depth knowledge of and commitment to animal health and care standards and practices
• Understanding of disease prevention protocols, quarantine procedures, and sanitation practices
• Knowledge of shelter medicine

Abilities

• Proficient in using veterinary software and maintaining comprehensive health records
• Ability to conduct routine health checks, vaccinations, and medical treatments as prescribed by veterinarians
• Ability to perform diagnostic tests and administer medications
• Ability to support community outreach efforts, including coordination of medical adoptions and foster placements
• Ability to educate and train staff and volunteers on animal care and health protocols
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and handle stressful situations professionally and respectfully
• Compassionate and empathetic towards animals and their care
• Must be able to meet the physical requirements of the job, including but not limited to the ability to: lift up to 50 lbs; stay on feet for extended periods of time; and operate with full range of motion (i.e., crouching, kneeling, reaching, etc.)

BENEFITS:
Upon successful completion of the 3-month probationary period, the following benefits may be available:

• Group RRSP program with up to 3.5% contribution-matching by employer
• Employee & Family Assistance Program for all employees
• Discounted veterinary services and pet food

This is a full-time position (up to 40 hours per week) on a 12-month contract, with the possibility of extension to up to 18 months based on the needs of the organization.