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Animal Outreach of the Mother Lode
Registered Veterinary Technician; Veterinary Assistant
Job Description
Job Title:
Registered Veterinary Technician;Veterinary Assistant Department:
Clinic Reports To:
Clinic Coordinator & Chief Veterinarian FLSA Status:
Non-exempt, Full-time Pay Range:
$18-$25/hour depending on experience and licensing About Animal Outreach Established in 1992, Animal Outreach of the Mother Lode is a well-respected nonprofit serving animals and families throughout El Dorado County and surrounding communities. We provide care to more than 7,000 animals each year through affordable, high-quality spay/neuter, vaccination, wellness, and veterinary services. Animal Outreach operates a feline-only shelter and places more than 1,500 cats and kittens into loving homes each year. Position Overview Animal Outreach is seeking a motivated and compassionate Registered Veterinary Technician (RVT) or experienced Veterinary Technician to join our high-performing veterinary team. Technicians may work in our high-volume, high-quality spay/neuter clinic, vaccine and wellness services, feline shelter, and dentistry program. The ideal candidate is comfortable in a fast-paced environment, committed to high-quality medicine and patient care, and passionate about animal welfare and lifesaving. Essential Duties & Responsibilities Work collaboratively with veterinarians, RVTs, Veterinary Assistants, and volunteers to provide safe, compassionate, high-quality patient care. Assist with examinations, dental procedures, anesthesia, surgical preparation, recovery, and patient discharge. Assist veterinarians with pre-operative, peri-operative, and post-operative patient care. Monitor patients under anesthesia and provide appropriate peri-operative support. Obtain and accurately record vital signs, patient histories, and medical observations. Perform patient assessments, obtain vital signs, administer medications and treatments, collect and prepare laboratory samples, perform diagnostic testing, and complete standing orders according to established protocols and veterinarian direction. Triage new shelter intakes and promptly communicate changes in an animal's medical condition or behavior. Prepare veterinarian-authorized prescriptions and accurately communicate medication, treatment, and follow-up instructions to clients. Support high-volume, high-quality spay/neuter and shelter medicine programs while maintaining excellent standards of patient care, safety, infection control, and biosecurity. Respond appropriately to medical emergencies and maintain competency in animal CPR and emergency procedures. Maintain clean, sanitary, organized, and safe treatment, surgical, and shelter areas. Provide exceptional, compassionate customer service and assist clients with questions, concerns, pricing, appointments, aftercare, and Animal Outreach programs and services. Educate clients and the public about responsible pet ownership, preventive care, spay/neuter, vaccinations, adoption, and Animal Outreach programs. Maintain accurate animal records and behavior observations. Work positively and professionally with coworkers, volunteers, clients, and community partners. Attend required meetings and training and participate in continuing education opportunities. Maintain a positive public image and uphold Animal Outreach's mission, policies, and standards. Perform other duties as assigned by the Chief Veterinarian, Clinic Coordinator, or Director of Operations. Qualifications - Knowledge, Skills & Abilities Excellent animal handling, patient care, and technical skills. Knowledge of veterinary terminology, procedures, anesthesia, surgery, diagnostics, and common health conditions. High-volume spay/neuter experience strongly preferred. Ability to multitask, prioritize, and remain calm and focused in a fast-paced environment. Strong organizational, communication, teamwork, and customer service skills. Ability to work independently while contributing positively to a collaborative team. Good judgment, professionalism, attention to detail, and willingness to learn. Ability to recognize and communicate changes in animal health or behavior. Knowledge of animal handling safety, infection control, and occupational hazards. Dependable, punctual, and able to maintain regular attendance. Passion for animal welfare and commitment to Animal Outreach's mission. Education & Experience Current California RVT license preferred. RVT students currently enrolled in an accredited program may be considered based on experience and skill level. Veterinary Assistants with at least 2 years of high-volume, high-quality spay/neuter experience may be considered. Non-RVT candidates must be eligible and able to obtain and maintain a Veterinary Assistant Controlled Substance Permit (VACSP) in compliance with the California Veterinary Medical Board. Shelter medicine, dentistry, anesthesia, surgery, feline, community cat, or nonprofit animal welfare experience is a plus. Ability to respond appropriately during emergencies and maintain competency in animal CPR. Current valid California driver's license. Strong leadership, teamwork, and communication skills. Physical Requirements Ability to stand and walk for extended periods and frequently handle animals, equipment, and medical supplies. Ability to stoop, kneel, crouch, crawl, reach, and perform physical tasks associated with animal care and restraint. Ability to safely lift and/or move up to 50 pounds independently and up to 100 pounds with assistance for short distances. Ability to perform duties safely in a veterinary and shelter environment. Working Conditions Fast-paced veterinary clinic and feline shelter environment with changing priorities and a high volume of patients. Exposure to animal bites/scratches, high noise levels, cleaning chemicals, parasites, allergens, infectious diseases, animal waste, and bodily fluids. Must follow all safety, infection control, and personal protective equipment requirements. Must be willing to work overtime and attend required training and meetings as needed. Disclaimer This position description describes the general nature and level of work performed and is not intended to be an exhaustive list of duties or responsibilities. Employees may be required to perform other job-related duties as assigned. This document does not create an employment contract, expressed or implied, other than an at-will employment relationship.Pay:
$18.00 - $25.00 per hour Expected hours: 30.0 - 40.0 per weekBenefits:
Employee discount Life insurance Paid time offWork Location:
In personBenefits
- Paid Time Off (PTO)
- Professional Development
- Dental Insurance
- Life Insurance
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What they do
A Veterinary Assistant assists with animals under veterinary care or in laboratories. Feeds animals, cleans cages, and administers medical treatment under the supervision of a veterinarian or veterinary technician. Works in a veterinary clinic, animal hospital, or laboratory.
$42,405 / year median in California
+22% projected growth