Licensed Veterinary Technician-Pt

NEVADA HUMANE SOCIETY
Job Description

The Nevada Humane Society's mission is to care for pets, find them homes, and save lives; Our vision is that all pets deserve a healthy, happy life.

Job/Position Title: Licensed Veterinary Technician
FSLA Status: Non-Exempt Date: 7/12/2023

Primary Purpose: The Licensed Veterinary Technician supports and assists the veterinarians in the Clinic, ensuring the safety and overall health of the animals at the shelter.

Staff Supervised: N/A.

Essential Duties/Functions:

1. Assists by providing safe and adequate restraint during physical examinations and medical procedures, as needed.
2. Assists with surgical duties in a high volume, fast paced environment pursuant to Nevada State law, and under the supervision of a Licensed Veterinary Technician and Veterinarian. Tasks include, but are not limited to:
a. Inducing patients while following proper drug protocols.
b. Intubating cats and dogs of different size ranges.
c. Prepping animals for surgical procedures shaving hair from surgical sites and ensuring a sterile field by using proper sterile surgical scrub techniques. Performing any further injections or tasks needed (Sani-shave, nail trim, etc.)
d. Monitoring anesthesia knowing acceptable heart rate, respiratory rates and SpO2 levels to ensure proper safety for all patients under anesthesia and inform DVM of any unacceptable rates/levels.
e. Performing surgical recovery monitor each patient's stage of recovery, extubating, ensuring patients maintain appropriate temperatures, etc.
3. Assist surgeon(s) with dental procedures and perform tasks within scope of license. Tasks include but are not limited to dental radiographs and dental prophylaxis.
4. Perform routine diagnostic testing on animals as directed. This includes, but is not limited to phlebotomy, cystocentesis, digital radiographs, infectious disease testing, and use of standard IDEXX laboratory equipment (ProCyte, SediVue and Catalyst Machines)
5. Utilize technical skills daily, such as, but not limited to:
a. IV Catheter Placement
b. Bandage Changes
c. Administering IV injections
d. Urinary Catheters
6. Perform routine maintenance on medical equipment as needed.
7. Printing and filling RX medications as directed by the Veterinarians.
8. Administer prescribed medication(s) to animals in accordance with the Nevada State Board of Veterinary Medical Examiners.
9. Vaccinate shelter and foster animals, as needed.
10. Enter exam and treatment notes into the appropriate software program.
11. Receive supplies/inventory and distribute them to their designated areas. This includes organizing all inventory and informing manager/supervisors of any expired items.
12. Perform basic husbandry tasks to all animals housed in clinic (cleaning in-patient kennels, providing food and water, etc.)
13. Help prevent the spread of disease by using proper cleaning protocols in designated clinic areas at the end of each day and/or up to several times throughout the workday.
14. Complete medical and surgical discharges of patients to their owners, as needed. This includes going over any waivers and/or medical history provided, microchip information, medications prescribed for patient, etc.
15. Assisting with public service events (vaccine clinics, spay/neuter, etc.), both on and off-site, and working with the events staff and others within the organization.
16. Fill in for other areas and perform other tasks/functions, as needed.
17. May be required to train new hires or volunteers.
18. Wears company uniform and otherwise dress appropriately and professionally to project a positive image to the public.
19. Interacts with co-workers and volunteers in an efficient and courteous manner to ensure a cooperative team environment amongst all departments.
20. Attend and participate in departmental and shelter meetings. Attend educational conferences/seminars as recommended/approved.
21. Address and/or report any safety hazards or unsafe use of NHS equipment.
22. Perform other duties as requested by direct management, and/or the CEO.

Working Conditions: Air-conditioned office or air-conditioned building with computer and internet access. May require travel within a workday on a regular basis. Work is also performed outdoors and/or offsite for shelter events. Use of personal vehicles may be required for fieldwork; mileage allowance will be provided.

Equipment Use: Idexx laboratory, radiology, surgical, and more. Telephone, cell phone, computer, printer, scanner, copier, and other office-related equipment. May require use of personal and company vehicles.

Work Hours: This is an hourly position that requires flexibility. While a typical workweek will be 40 hours, days off, or scheduling may change based on the needs of the organization. Attendance at events and other functions may require longer hours or holiday, weekend, and evening work.

Mental Demands: Must have the ability to multitask, prioritize, and handle various levels of stress. Position requires excellent organizational skills, as well as a high level of accuracy and attention to detail. Must have adequate judgment and self-confidence to handle decision making duties. Must be able to meet deadlines and delegate appropriately. Must be a team player able to give and receive instructions, and work effectively with all staff. Requires exceptional attention to detail, courteous and professional demeanor, extensive interaction with staff and public. Ability to work with staff and volunteers in a fair and ethical manner. Requires the ability to think clearly, act quickly, and utilize sound judgment in a variety of situations. Requires the ability to be self-disciplined and self-motivated. Must be able to endure long hours and remain alert, energized, and positive.

Physical Demands: This position may involve desk and computer work and being on your feet for long periods of time. Position may include (vehicle) travel back and forth to outside venues as well as some lifting. Must be able to work at a fast and efficient pace. Requires lifting heavy objects more than 50 pounds. Ability to safely handle and control animals of all kinds.

Desired Experience: Experience in same or related position in a nonprofit setting-preferably animal welfare. Record of continually increasing responsibilities with measurable results. A sincere interest in Organization's mission and vision and increasing visibility within the community.

Qualification Requirements:

• Must be a Licensed Veterinary Technician in the State of Nevada or can obtain a Nevada License within 30 days. Alternatively, a Licensed Veterinary Technician in Training would be considered for the position.
• Ability to function independently, manage multiple projects and meet deadlines.
• Strong interpersonal communication and written skills.
• Ability to stay abreast of new developments in the community, especially as it relates to animal welfare.
• Strong attention to detail with a high degree of accuracy.
• Excellent verbal, written and observational skills.
• Must be goal-oriented, self-starter with a willingness and maturity to go beyond prescribed work and time schedules and meet assigned deadlines.
• Possession of a valid California or Nevada Driver's license with valid registration and insurance of personal vehicles.

General Qualifications:

• Must have a passion for animals and support the mission of the Nevada Humane Society.
• Must treat animals humanely, with love and concern both on and off the job and transmit these values to others.
• Must adhere to all local laws regarding personally owned animals.
• General knowledge of pet behavior and care. Ability to work with all kinds of animals in a safe and responsible manner.
• Positive attitude a must!

Additional Qualifications that would benefit this position:

• College degree.
• Experience in a nonprofit agency.
• Animal welfare experience.