Animal Veterinary Technician

Under general supervision, is responsible for performing complex technical work assisting a veterinarian in the medical care of animals in the County Animal Care Program. Treats animals impounded at the Animal Care Facility as directed by the Veterinarians. Working conditions are in a kennel environment with frequent exposure to laboratory conditions including hazardous materials, unfavorable fumes and odors, and working with animal body fluids and infectious diseases. Exercises no supervision.

• Assists Veterinarian in restraining animals, for clinical examination.
• Lifts and carries animals weighing up to 50 pounds to secure in cages or place on examination tables, and assists with team lifts for animals weighing over 50 pounds.
• Performs emergency first aid.
• Screens animals for sterilization surgery and draws blood samples to examine for filariases, anemia, etc.
• Collects fecal samples and examines them for endoparasites.
• Bathes, dips, and dries animals.
• Prepares, sterilizes, and maintains surgical packs.
• Schedules surgeries.
• Sedates, undulates, and assists in applying anesthesia; maintains anesthesia; clips, shaves, and disinfects the area for incision; and assists in surgery.
• Monitors animal recovery from anesthesia.
• Scrubs and disinfects instruments prior to sterilization.
• Examines animal before discharge and advises owner on post-surgical care of animal.
• Assists in the training of personnel on basic responsibilities and animal handling.
• Maintains an inventory of medical supplies.
• May assist with offsite events.
• Will receive incoming animals from animal control officers and complete all necessary paperwork, and prepare the animals for vaccination and any other requirements to vet the animal.   
• Performs related duties and fulfills responsibilities as required.

• High school diploma or GED equivalent (recognized by the Texas Education Agency or a regional accrediting agency).
• One (1) year of animal health care assisting a veterinarian, animal control or animal care experience.
• Valid Class 'C' Texas Driver's License.
• Knowledge of basic animal health procedures and practices.
• Knowledge of animal anatomy and basic surgical techniques.
• Knowledge of methods and procedures of animal care.
• Knowledge of safety procedures and techniques used in dealing with animals and laboratory samples.
• Knowledge of all the tools and instruments used in veterinary medicine.
• Ability to communicate clearly and effectively.
• Ability to perform basic examinations of animals.
• Ability to handle animals under all types of conditions and situations.
• Ability to perform injections.
• Ability to perform all the physical requirements of the position, with or without accommodations.
• Must secure and maintain a favorable background investigation and clearance
• Must clear a pre-employment physical and a pre-employment drug screen test
• May be required to work more than 40 hours during the workweek

Working Environment and Physical Demands:

• Exposure to animals of unknown temperament and background
• Frequently moves items weighing up to 10-50 pounds
• Occasionally moves items weighing up to 60-100 pounds
• Occasionally moves about the office
• Frequently communicates with others; must be able to exchange accurate information
• Constantly operates a computer and other office productivity machinery
• Positions self to perform essential functions
• Must be able to remain in a stationary position
• Must be able to perform all physical requirements of the position

Salary : $3,042