Certified Veterinary Technician (CVT)

Job Title: Certified Veterinary Technician (CVT)

Job Summary: The Certified Veterinary Technician (CVT) provides high-quality medical care and support to shelter animals. In this role, you will assist in treating and preventing illnesses and injuries in animals, as well as maintaining the overall health of the shelter population. Working closely with veterinarians, shelter staff, and volunteers, you will ensure that animals receive appropriate medical care, vaccinations, and treatments, contributing to their well-being and readiness for adoption.

Key Responsibilities:

• Medical Care & Treatment:
• Provide hands-on medical care to shelter animals, including administering medications, vaccines, and treatments.
• Assist in routine health assessments, including physical exams, vaccinations, deworming, flea and tick treatments, and heartworm prevention.
• Monitor animals for signs of illness or injury and report findings to veterinarians for further assessment and treatment.
• Diagnostic & Laboratory Procedures:
• Collect samples (e.g., blood, urine, feces) and perform diagnostic tests to assess animal health, including blood counts, urinalysis, and parasite screening.
• Prepare and interpret diagnostic imaging (e.g., X-rays, ultrasound) and laboratory results to help diagnose conditions.
• Assist in the development of treatment plans for sick or injured animals based on diagnostic results.
• Animal Care & Monitoring:
• Monitor the health and behavior of shelter animals, tracking progress and responding to any medical issues that arise.
• Provide emergency first aid and stabilization for animals in distress or needing urgent care.
• Manage and provide support for animals recovering from surgery, illness, or injury, ensuring their comfort and well-being.
• Client & Public Education:
• Educate potential adopters and the public on basic animal care, including vaccinations, diet, grooming, and behavior management.
• Provide information to adopters about the medical history of animals they are adopting, including any ongoing treatments or special needs.
• Inventory & Supply Management:
• Maintain an inventory of medical supplies, medications, and equipment for the shelter, ensuring stock is up-to-date and properly stored.
• Assist in the ordering of necessary veterinary supplies, ensuring that the shelter operates efficiently and effectively.
• Shelter Team Collaboration:
• Work closely with shelter staff, volunteers, and veterinarians to ensure a cohesive approach to animal care and shelter management.
• Assist in managing animal intake, evaluating their medical needs, and providing appropriate care.
• Help with the development and implementation of shelter health protocols, including disease prevention and quarantine procedures.
• Record Keeping:
• Maintain accurate and up-to-date medical records for each animal, including vaccinations, treatments, surgical procedures, and health assessments.
• Ensure compliance with legal and ethical guidelines for patient documentation and confidentiality.

Qualifications:

• Education: Associate’s degree in Veterinary Technology or related field from an accredited program.
• Certification: Certification as a Veterinary Technician (CVT, RVT, or LVT) is required, with successful completion of the national exam and state licensure (if applicable).
• Experience: Prior experience in a veterinary or animal shelter setting is highly desirable.
• Skills:
• Strong knowledge of animal care, veterinary medical procedures, and common shelter diseases.
• Ability to perform diagnostic tests, assist in surgeries, and handle emergency situations.
• Excellent communication skills to effectively interact with staff, volunteers, potential adopters, and veterinarians.
• Compassionate and empathetic approach to animal care and working with shelter animals, including those that may be frightened or have behavioral issues.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, high-volume environment and handle the physical demands of the role, including lifting animals and standing for extended periods.
• Strong organizational skills for maintaining medical records and managing supplies.

Working Conditions:

• Full-time with flexibility for weekend and evening.
• Work is primarily conducted in an animal shelter environment with exposure to a variety of animals, including those with medical or behavioral issues.
• Physical demands include the ability to lift, handle, and restrain animals of varying sizes, as well as performing medical tasks in a busy, sometimes emotionally challenging environment.

Job Type: Full-time

Expected hours: 40 per week

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Employee discount
• Flexible schedule
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Professional development assistance
• Vision insurance

Schedule:

• 8 hour shift
• Day shift
• Evening shift
• Morning shift
• Weekends as needed

Ability to Commute:

• Hinsdale, IL 60521 (Required)

Ability to Relocate:

• Hinsdale, IL 60521: Relocate before starting work (Required)

Work Location: In person