Part-Time Veterinary Assistant - Pets In Need

MISSION AND VISIONARY STATEMENT

Our mission is to provide animals with loving care and lasting homes, to partner with communities striving to do the same, and to advance our no-kill legacy. Our vision is for animals to live in welcoming communities where they and their human companions are treated with care and compassion.

SUMMARY

Under the direction of the Medical Director, the Registered Veterinary Technician is responsible for the medical care to animals, assisting the Medical Director in the health care of animals and the analysis of animal disease; rendering emergency treatment in life-threatening situations to sustain life. This is a part-time position scheduled for 20 hours per week.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES

• Assists the Medical Director in implementing high-quality medical care and health management programs for Pets In Need’s shelter guests housed at the Palo Alto and Redwood City Animal shelter.
• Performs diagnostic tests, venipuncture, x-rays, laboratory tests, IV catheter placement and drug / fluid calculations as ordered by the Medical Director.
• Administers treatments, performs health checks, manages vaccinations and flea/tick prevention, handles deworming, and bathes animals.
• Maintains and monitors animals under anesthesia and prepares animals for surgery.
• Supervises veterinary assistants and volunteers, including training and directing completion of tasks necessary to achieve optimal medical department efficiency.
• Follows veterinary protocols for animals in PIN’s shelter, including medical, behavior and general care practices for the health and well-being of the animals, individually and as a herd.
• Maintains records of all medications and other care as needed. Complies with all laws pertaining to controlled substances.
• Performs dental prophylactic cleaning and extractions as directed by the Medical Director. Assists Medical Director in managing medical department budget. Performs other job duties as required.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Experience in working in a high quality/high volume spay/neuter operation, is preferred.
• Experience in working on a mobile surgical van, is preferred. Effective written and verbal communication skills are required.
• Experience with animal handling and restraint, animal health, and behavior assessments.
• Must be able to work efficiently and effectively under stressful conditions.
• Must be able to cope with death either due to surgical complications or euthanasia.
• Must be able to delegate tasks.
• Ability to work independently in a fast-paced environment, handle fluctuating priorities and multiple projects.
• Positive attitude and professional demeanor.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

• Physically strong and dexterous, and ability to stand for extended periods. Must be able to bend and kneel repeatedly.
• Must have good range of motion in joints especially wrist, knees, your back for twisting, and elbows.

WORKING CONDITIONS

• No allergic reactions resulting from close proximity to animals in the workplace.
• Working with potentially dangerous and fractious animals.
• Ability to lift and move objects and animals weighing up to 50 pounds for short distances and to humanely restrain animals when necessary.
• Works remotely, on-site, and outdoors in various settings and weather within the community.
• Ability to travel between locations. 
• Must be able to work a flexible schedule including weekends, evenings, and holidays.

This description reflects management’s assignment of essential functions, it does not proscribe or restrict the tasks that may be assigned.

Consistent with its obligations under the law, Pets In Need will provide reasonable accommodation to any employee with a disability who requires accommodation to perform the essential functions of his or her job.