Registered Veterinary Technician

Responsibilities will include, but are not limited to: 

Direct Medical Care (50%) 

• Work with the Senior Director, Veterinary Services and Veterinary Support Manager (RVT) to provide medical oversight to animals in the care of the BRC, in accordance with ASPCA medical protocols and shelter medicine principles and best practices 

• Utilize proficient technical nursing skills, including but not limited to venipuncture, catheter placement, administration of oral, topical, and injectable medications, diagnostic testing procedures, sedation monitoring, triage and basic examination to care for animals at the BRC 

• Transport animals to external veterinary care service providers for appointments 

• Provide a safe and compassionate environment for animals in our care, our staff, and for our clients by using low-stress handling techniques 

• Collaborate with behavior and sheltering colleagues to ensure holistic, balanced care for animals and a cohesive team culture for staff 

• Serve as an active member of the Medical Team on daily rounds and in intra- and inter-departmental meetings 

• Review current treatment schedules, medical concern boards and rechecks to ensure timely delivery of care  

• Observe animals closely for signs of illness, injury, and/or poor medical welfare; document and communicate this information in patient medical records and/or directly to medical, behavior and operations team members 

• Assist with humane euthanasia following disposition decisions and/or in event of urgent medical need, in compliance with relevant laws and regulations 

• Handle, administer and log controlled substances under the direction of a veterinarian and in accordance with protocols 

• Use PPE appropriately and help ensure proper use by all teams throughout the shelter 

• Use objective language and established communication systems to relay relevant observations to the behavior team, flagging behavior changes and concerns 

• Communicate regularly with the behavior and operations teams to ensure information is shared in a timely fashion with relevant stakeholders 

• Competently and compassionately explain information about an animal’s condition to other staff with easily understood language  

• Model a standard of continual commitment to improvement in all aspects of BRC care and handling of dogs. 

Operations & Administrative Support (50%) 

• Collaborate between medical, care and enrichment, and behavior rehabilitation branches 

• Ensure accurate and timely data entry to animals’ medical records in accordance with principles of medical record-keeping, including the transfer of information from outside veterinary partners and laboratories 

• Ensure medical areas are kept clean, organized, and ready for use 

• Learn and follow BRC philosophy, procedures and protocols 

• Adhere to all protocols put forth by Occupational Safety and Health Administration 

• Take on special projects and other duties as assigned by the Sr. Director, Veterinary Services 

• Prepare samples for submission to outside laboratories and follow-up as needed 

• Assist as requested and directed in behavior interventions as a “novel” person 

• Assist as needed in Learning Lab retreats, eLearning, and online forums 

Exemplifies the ASPCA’s Core Values: 

• Has Commitment and dedication to improving the lives of animals 

• Demonstrates Ownership and feels responsible for outcomes 

• Believes in Team – that we are stronger together 

• Seeks to Elevate others and reimagine what is possible 

• Focuses on Impact, specifically making change for animals 

Education and Work Experience: 

• Must have a current Registered Veterinary Technician license in North Carolina or be able to obtain a license in NC within 90 days of hire 

• Prior experience working as a veterinary assistant, veterinary technician or similar in small animal clinical practice or animal shelter required 

• Prior experience working in an animal shelter preferred 

• North Carolina Certified Rabies Vaccinator preferred or eligibility for and willingness to obtain certification  

• North Carolina Certified Euthanasia Technician preferred or eligibility for and willingness to obtain certification to perform humane euthanasia 

• Fear Free Shelter certification is required within 60 days of hire 

Qualifications: 

• Ability to observe and accurately interpret animal behavior 

• Ability to skillfully restrain and handle animals 

• Cultivates a climate in which individual differences and perspectives are valued, encouraged and supported 

• Displays courage and determination in the face of challenges and inspires others to do the same 

• Exhibits empathy and understanding for the needs of animals, co-workers, clients and communities 

• Experiments with, and implements approaches that improve and expand upon our work 

• Flexible and willing to attend mandatory staff meetings and training classes that may not occur during regular work hours 

• Treats people with kindness and compassion  

• Builds trust by demonstrating authenticity and following through on your commitments  

• Prioritizes well-being as well as mission  

• Builds strong relationships with your colleagues by participating in communication loops to share and receive honest feedback  

• Responsible and accountable for the culture you add to your team dynamic 

• Must provide a valid driver’s license upon hire and pass a motor vehicle history check demonstrating a safe driving history 

• Physical capacity to handle heavy lifting, moving, standing and bending 

• Plans, organizes and prioritizes work 

• Ability to work closely with behaviorally compromised animals and feel comfortable working in an environment where euthanasia is performed on a regular basis 

• Must be confident with technology and using a computer, have experience learning and using new software in a professional setting, be able to toggle between multiple programs. 

• Available to regularly work 5 days per week, including one weekend day, and available to work a flexible schedule when needed including days, evenings, weekends, and holidays