Licensed Veterinary Technician (Full-Time)

DescriptionReports to Supervising Doctor of Veterinary MedicineThe Richmond SPCA is a non-profit organization located in the heart of Richmond, Virginia. As a leader in the field of animal welfare, we are cultivating a community committed to saving, protecting and enriching animal lives with a mission to provide education and resources to achieve and sustain a no-kill community. Annually, we rescue, rehabilitate and find homes for about 4,000 homeless animals while also providing our region with vital safety net programs designed to keep thousands of pets in loving homes and out of shelters. Our values of collaboration, creativity, honesty, inclusion and respect guide not only what we do – but how we do it.The Richmond SPCA’s Susan M. Markel Veterinary Hospital is a full-service, low-cost hospital that provides quality, accessible care to our community. By doing so, we work to prevent pet relinquishment due to cost of veterinary care.Licensed Veterinary Technicians are essential members of our team, as they provide lifesaving and life-improving medical care to pets who may otherwise not have access to these needed services.Essential FunctionsProvide exceptional patient care for surgical, hospitalized pets, and outpatientsProvide support to and take direction from Doctors of Veterinary Medicine (DVMs) in the provision of veterinary medicineAdminister medications, treatments, and vaccines as prescribed by DVMsEfficiently pre-medicate, induce, intubate, and monitor surgical patients as necessaryPartner with the DVM on the floor to manage hospital flow, including support staff and patient care in rooms (moved up the list)Assist with the acceptance and accurate entry of inventory into practice management software, ensuring meticulous attention to detail when updating item quantities, product information, and expiration datesPerform clerical work, data entry into patient charts, and invoicing promptly and accurately as needed and ensure prompt and accurate record-keeping procedures are followed by medical support staffPerform routine and specialized diagnostic testsHandle, track, and appropriately document controlled substances for patients according to hospital protocolIdentify emergency situations and respond appropriatelyCommunicate effectively and compassionately with pet guardians during appointments, including delivering education and counselingHandling (leash-walking, lifting, and carrying) and medical restraint of dog and cat patients; placing and securing dogs and cats in carriers/kennelsFollow established operational protocols, patient care standards, safety guidelines, equipment handling procedures, and documentation requirements to ensure consistent, efficient, and compliant hospital operationsPerform all job functions of a veterinary assistantAttend and participate in all required trainings and meetingsOther job-related duties as assignedRequirementsHold a current LVT license in good standing in the State of VirginiaBe 18 years of age or olderWeekday availability; early morning and evening availability required (no nights or holidays)Have reliable transportation, including during inclement weatherComfort handling both dogs and cats, including fearful or fractious patientsQualifications, Skills, And ExpectationsProficient with fundamental LVT skills (e.g., IV catheter placement, venipuncture, anesthetic induction/intubation/maintenance/monitoring, surgical prep, radiographs)Effective, professional and empathetic customer service skills and communication (written and verbal) with the public, volunteers, and all Richmond SPCA employeesExcellent customer service skillsAbility to work in a high-volume, fast-paced environmentUncompromising commitment to the wellbeing of patientsWell-versed in basic wellness and medical knowledgeAbility to interpret patient medical recordsAbility to monitor anesthesia, with a clear idea of abnormal conditionsAbility to learn, use, and maintain diagnostic equipment, including radiography and lab work machinesProfessional communication skills and comfort speaking with others, including coworkersAbility to multi-task, take and follow directions, adapt to and accommodate changing demandsAbility to recognize a need for assistance and ask for helpStrong work ethicPunctual and reliableTeam-orientedAble to work independently at timesResourceful, positive, can-do attitudeExcellent time management and prioritization skillsMaintain client confidentialityStrong computer skills and ability to learn new computer systems (knowledge of DaySmart Vet a plus)Prior experience in a shelter, fast-paced hospital or high-volume sterilization services a plusExperience performing dental prophylaxis and radiographs preferredPhysical Job RequirementsAble to routinely lift 50 poundsAble to push/pull a large cartAble to work with animals (including those who are sick or injured or who have behavior challenges)Able to bend, kneel, stoop, and use your arms in a repetitive mannerAble to physically restrain a dog up to 50 poundsAble to be on your feet for 8 to 10 hours at a timeHave physical strength to perform cleaning duties effectively and efficientlyWork EnvironmentRapid pace with exposure to potential hazards including animal waste, loud noises, cat litter, animal waste, various chemicals, and disinfectantsHigh levels of noise at timesPotential for animal bites, scratches and zoonotic diseases (can be transmitted from animals to people)Richmond SPCA employees are eligible to become clients of our low-cost, full-service Susan M. Markel Veterinary Hospital and have access to an Employee Assistance Program. Employees who average 15+ hours per week are eligible for voluntary (employee-paid) benefits including accident insurance, hospital indemnity and critical illness insurance. Employees who average 20+ hours a week can participate in our 401(k) retirement plan and have access to paid wellness leave.Full-time employees are eligible for insurance benefits, including medical, dental, and vision, life insurance, short-term and long-term disability, and paid personal leave.The Richmond SPCA is a qualified employer for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program.