What are the responsibilities and job description for the Veterinarian Technician Assistant position at City of Killeen, TX?
Job Description
Under the general supervision of the Veterinary Technician, performs a variety of duties necessary for the care and treatment of all shelter animals. The Veterinary Assistant will be involved in the daily care of shelter animals which may include animal restraint, wellness and post-op checks, administration of treatments, and preparing animals for surgery. Veterinary Assistants have the greatest opportunity to get to know the individual requirements of the animals in their care and coordinate with the veterinarian technician and shelter staff. Through daily monitoring of health and behavior, the Veterinary Assistant should be the first to pick up on anything out of the ordinary. The Veterinary Assistants has the greatest impact on the continuity of care an animal receives during its stay at the shelter. They are required to work as a part of the team for the betterment of animal care.
Employee has no supervisory responsibilities.
Essential Duties
Perform preliminary animal evaluations, and assist with veterinary exams, record exam/evaluation notes and instructions in Chameleon database on same day.
Administer required treatments as scheduled and update the medical records of animals in the computer.
Monitor and report any animal health concerns throughout the day.
Assist with preparation of animals for surgical procedures.
Maintain the accuracy of animal identification records in all animal care areas. Responsible for accurate kennel cards on all kennels at all times. Monitor weights of animals and coordinate with veterinarian technician on any dietary adjustments.
Ensure that the medical record of every adoptable animal is kept up to date.
Serve as a liaison between animal care staff and veterinary staff.
Perform weekly inventory of medical supplies.
Assist with the training of foster volunteers, field questions and schedule vet checks and treatments.
Assist staff in performing euthanasia services.
If certified as a euthanasia technician, perform euthanasia services for owned animal requests as well as for shelter animals deemed unadoptable in accordance with documented procedures. Monitor and record drug usage and ensure proper storage and handling.
May be assigned to work in other departments temporarily, permanently or for cross training.
Provide a workplace free from serious recognized hazards and comply with standards, rules and regulations issued under the OSH Act.
Perform other duties as assigned by the shelter director, supervising veterinarian, veterinary technician and/or acting supervisor.
Performs office clerical, administrative, kennel duties and cleaning, and other various tasks as assigned.
Required Minimum Qualifications
EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:
1. High School Degree or GED; and
2. One (1) year experience in event/program promotion; and
3. CVA Level 1 Preferred
SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS
1. Must possess a valid driver's license or obtain one by date of hire.
2. Must have a Texas Driver's license within 6 months of hire.
3. Must become euthanasia certified within 90 days of hire.
Supplemental Information
1. Treat all animals humanely, with compassion and concern, both on and off the job and convey these values to others.
2. Have basic knowledge of veterinary health care, behavior, control and handling of dogs, cats and other companion animals.
3. Ability to medicate dogs, cats and other companion animals appropriately using liquids, tablets, and capsules.
4. Provides assistance to the veterinary technician during medical exams and is able to perform treatments during exams when necessary.
5. Learn and abide by appropriate procedures and SOPs for caring for and treatment animals.
6. Safely, confidently, and humanely handle various types, sizes, and temperaments of animals.
7. Understand and follow oral and written instructions in a timely manner.
8. Provides microchip services for citizen pets and pets at the facility. Includes scanning, implanting microchips, and facilitating microchip registration paperwork.
9. Be able to understand and clearly explain Killeen Animal Services’ mission, needs, and services as they relate to medical care provided to animals of of Killeen Animal Services to the public and rescue groups, and other entities as required.
10. Use computer programs, including shelter database, Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Publisher, etc. to track and accurately record various information and data.
11. Maintain positive relationships with staff, veterinary and rescue partners and be able to effectively submit required information needed to secure veterinary services or medical placement.
12. Work independently, be self-motivated, and be able to multi-task while following direction.
13. Demonstrate ability to work in a professional manner with others in a fast paced, complex and ever-changing environment.
14. Communicate effectively and professionally (written and verbal) with the public and provide excellent customer service.
15. Apply sound and independent judgement in a variety of situations in accordance with established policies and procedures.
16. Exercise tact and good judgement to establish and maintain effective working relationships with front desk staff, kennel assistants, veterinarian staff on site and in clinic, volunteers, community service workers, students, rescue groups, fosters, members of the public, and others encountered in the course of work.
