Veterinary Assistant

Position Summary:Under the supervision of the Lead Shelter Technician, the Veterinary Assistant participates in clinical and animal care activities that support the HCPH VPH Shelter Medicine program and serves as support to other sections as needed.

Job Duties:

65% Veterinary Assistance

Assists veterinarian and veterinary technicians with physical exams, medication administration, and treatments.
Aids in collecting samples for veterinary diagnostics.
Follows proper isolation and quarantine protocols for hospitalized animals.
Appropriately restrains animals including those which are fractious or fearful for physical exams and treatments.
Routinely evaluates health and temperament of hospitalized animals and advises the veterinarian as appropriate.

35% Animal Care

Assists in the daily feeding and watering of hospitalized animals in the shelter.
Assists in cleaning and disinfection of medical areas including kennels and exam room.
Assists in documenting treatments and diagnoses into shelter software (Chameleon).
Promotes responsible pet ownership and answers client questions concerning animal health, behavior, and care.

Core Competencies:Organizational Leadership
Understands the organizational mission
Understands ethics and public good; is concerned with public trust
Demonstrates respect for the opinions and beliefs of others

Collaboration
Demonstrates a sense of responsibility for the success of the group
Collaborates with others to improve quality and address needs

Innovation
Ability to adapt to change

Interpersonal Abilities/Personal Characteristics
Uses sound judgement
Self-motivated
Organizes and maintains work environment to allow for maximum productivity

Communication
Communicates clearly and effectively, both orally and in writing
Written and verbal English competency
Able to read and follow directions

Minimum Qualifications:Education Requirements:
High school diploma or GED is required

Licenses/Certifications Required:

Experience Requirements:

Computer Proficiency:
Must be proficient in data entry and use of computer.
Special Skills:
Must possess effective communication skills (verbal and written).
Must be able to follow direction and complete tasks with minimum supervision.
Must be able to cope with the difficulties associated with animal euthanasia.
Must be compassionate toward the animals and people we serve.

This position requires a professional, cheerful, self- motivated leader who can make decisions, based on policy, with little or no supervision. The position includes hands-on shelter work (including direct animal care and handling) as well as administrative duties. The Veterinary Technician is charged with keeping an eye on the big picture in an effort to ensure efficiency, a high standard of care for our animals, and a positive and productive workplace for our animal care staff

Preferences:Education Preferred:

Licenses/Certifications Preferred:

Experience Preferred:
At least 6 months of animal experience. Direct related experience functioning in a veterinary environment (working in shelter medicine, spay/neuter/wellness clinic, or private veterinary practice) preferred.

Undergoes a one-month training program that outlines personnel and section policy manual. Training also includes Chameleon Software Training, rabies laws, Animal Control regulations, and an introduction to the Leave-alive program. The employee receives routine review by the ASV. The employee must work in harmony with the shelter and field staff

Computer Proficiency:
Knowledge of Microsoft Outlook Word, Excel, Outlook, and Chameleon is preferred.

Special Skills:
Bilingual (Spanish) is preferred.

Work Environment:Physical Requirements:
Will be required to bend, lift, stoop and stand for long periods of time.
Will be required to lift and restrain animals.
Employment Type: Contractor