Veterinary Technician

Veterinary Technician 3.3 3.3 out of 5 stars Ashtabula, OH 44004 $17

• $20 an hour
• Full-time Ashtabula County Animal Protective League 3 reviews $17
• $20 an hour

•

Full-time Job Description Title:

Veterinary Technician Class:

Hourly Revised:

January 23, 2026

Reports To:

Veterinarian and Shelter Director Work Location:

In person and remotely as needed

JOB OVERVIEW

The Veterinary Technician plays a critical role in supporting the health and well-being of animals in our care. This position is responsible for providing medical support services to shelter animals under the direction of the Shelter Director and veterinary leadership. Responsibilities include administering medications, vaccines, and treatments, assisting during exams and surgical procedures, collecting diagnostic samples, monitoring animal health, maintaining accurate medical records, and helping ensure the safe, efficient, and humane operation of our shelter clinic. The Veterinary Technician collaborates closely with animal care, management staff, volunteers, and fosters to uphold the highest standards of animal welfare and provide education and training to staff, clients, volunteers, etc. with regards to shelter medicine, disease control, and animal care.

VISION:

To provide skilled, compassionate medical care and proactive support for the animals in our shelter, ensuring they receive the timely treatment they need to heal, thrive, and find their forever homes.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Animal Medical Care:

Administer medications, vaccines, preventatives, and prescribed treatments as directed. Monitor animals post-treatment and post-surgery for signs of adverse reactions or complications.

Veterinary Support:

Assist veterinarians during exams, medical procedures, and surgeries including anesthesia induction and monitoring, restraint, surgical prep, and recovery.

Diagnostics:

Collect and prepare samples for diagnostic testing, including fecal, blood, skin scrapings, and urinalysis.

Medical Recordkeeping:

Maintain accurate, detailed medical records in shelter software, documenting observations, treatments, procedures, and outcomes.

Animal Intake Support:

Assist with intake exams, vaccinations, and preventative treatment for incoming animals. Communicate medical findings or concerns promptly.

Infectious Disease Management:

Follow and implement shelter protocols related to isolation, cleaning, and sanitation. Identify and report any concerns related to disease outbreaks or clinical signs.

Client & Public Education:

Provide guidance to adopters, fosters, and the public regarding basic veterinary care, medication administration, and post-surgical instructions.

Inventory & Equipment Management:

Monitor medical inventory, organize supplies, and ensure equipment is properly cleaned, maintained, and available.

Collaboration:

Work cooperatively with the animal care, management, and adoption teams to ensure the best outcomes for animals in our care.

Emergency Response:

Respond to in-shelter medical emergencies and provide first-line triage. Assist in after-hours care or transport on a rotating on-call basis if required.

EXPERIENCE/QUALIFICATIONS

Candidates must have prior experience in a veterinary setting, with specific skills and certifications including but not limited to: Associates degree in Veterinary Technology, registration as Veterinary Technician in Ohio

REQUIRED

At least 3 years of clinical experience, experience in veterinary critical care or emergency situations preferred Proficiency in surgery preparation and monitoring, sample collection, catheterization, and safe and humane restraint and handling techniques required Excellent communication skills, ability to work with and under non-medical personnel, ability to express ideas clearly both orally and in writing Ability to read and understand instructions, ability to work at fast pace, ability to predict prepare for needs of medical team and patients in routine situations Experience with shelter software or medical records systems preferred (e.g., PetPoint) Excellent skill reading canine and feline body language, familiarity with low stress or Fear Free handling methods Familiarity and confidence with laboratory procedures and equipment Detail oriented and able to prioritize and perform duties efficiently and effectively Ability to lift 50 lbs., stand for long periods, and handle animals of all sizes, including those that are sick, injured, or frightened Strong animal handling and restraint skills Knowledge of common shelter and companion animal diseases and treatment protocols Reliable transportation and a valid driver's license Must be at least 18 years old and able to pass a background check and drug screening Ability to work independently and as part of a fast-paced team Weekend availability required Kennel experience to ensure proper animal handling and care preferred

WORKING CONDITIONS

Schedule:

24-40 hours per week including weekends, evenings, and possible on-call support.

Environment:

Animal shelter setting with exposure to animals, cleaning agents, loud noise, and potential zoonotic diseases.

Physical:

Frequent standing, walking, lifting, and interaction with animals of various temperaments.

Emotional:

Must maintain professionalism and compassion in a setting where emotionally challenging situations are common.

AT WILL EMPLOYMENT

Employment with Ashtabula County APL is at-will, meaning that employment is for no specified period and may be terminated by either the employee or the organization at any time, with or without cause. Ashtabula County APL is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate based on race, color, sex, religion, age, national origin, disability, or any other legally protected basis. Employment decisions are based solely on qualifications.

NOTE:

This position description is not exhaustive and is not intended to be all-inclusive. You may be required to perform other related duties within your skill set as requested and/or directed by the Executive Director, Shelter Director, or other veterinary leadership to meet the evolving needs of the animals, department, and the organization.

Pay:

$17.00

• $20.

00 per hour

Benefits:

Continuing education credits Paid time off

License/Certification:

Ohio Registered Veterinary Technician (RVT) license (Required)

Work Location:

In person