Overview
LICENSED VETERINARY TECHNICIAN – PENINSULA REGIONAL ANIMAL SHELTER Jobs in Newport News, VA at City of Newport News
JOB DESCRIPTION
LICENSED VETERINARY
TECHNICIAN
PARKS AND RECREATION
Human Resources
NEWPORT NEWS, VA Department
GENERAL STATEMENT OF RESPONSIBILITIES
Under general supervision, this position provides routine medical care and assists with surgical
procedures for animals housed at the Peninsula Regional Animal Shelter. This position is also
responsible for assisting with diagnostic procedures, administering medications and record keeping
associated with animal medical care. Reports to the Veterinarian.
ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS
Performs routine medical evaluations and diagnostic procedures to include taking digital radiographs,
collecting blood, urine or stool samples; provides nursing care or emergency first aid to injured or
recovering animals; performs dental cleanings and exams; prepares animals for surgery; administers
anesthesia to animals and may assist with euthanasia when necessary. Trains other shelter staff in the
proper observation and diagnostic methods, safety and animal handling techniques.
Maintains daily log sheets and treatment histories, completes related animal care reports, and maintains
other record keeping as required. Responds to patron inquiries related to animal health education and
related programs; directs individuals to Animal Adoption Coordinator.
Responsible for maintaining an inventory of animal hospital supplies, to include researching
specifications, prices and availability of materials and equipment; establishes maintenance schedules
for hospital equipment. Ensures compliance with applicable laws established by the Virginia Board of
Veterinary Medicine and the US Drug Enforcement Administration.
Performs other duties as assigned.
PERFORMANCE STANDARD
Employees at all levels are expected to effectively work together to meet the needs of the community
and the organization through work behaviors demonstrating the City’s Values. Employees are also
expected to lead by example and demonstrate the highest level of ethics.
REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE
- Animal Health and Care – Knowledge of basic animal care standards to include safe animal
handling procedures for domestic and wild animals. Knowledge of the proper use, secure storage
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and disposal of controlled substances, syringes and related equipment. Knowledge of vaccinations,
deworming protocols, infectious diseases, and radiology.
- Safety – Knowledge of occupational hazards, safety precautions, and safety regulations related to
effective animal handling and other work related precautions. Knowledge of proper sanitation for
animal housing, chemical hazards and general welfare precautions necessary when working with
animals.
REQUIRED SKILLS
- Animal Care – Ability to administer vaccinations, complete venipuncture/IV catheter placement,
complete anesthesia intubation and monitoring, perform dental procedures, and euthanasia.
- Judgement/Decision Making – Uses logic and reasoning to understand, analyze, and evaluate
situations and exercise good judgment to make appropriate decisions.
- Interpersonal Relationships – Develops and maintains cooperative and professional relationships
with employees, managers, and representatives from other departments and organizations.
- Computer Skills – Utilizes a personal computer with word processing, spreadsheet and related
software to effectively complete a variety of tasks with reasonable speed and accuracy.
REQUIRED ABILITIES
- Time Management – Ability to plan and organize daily work routine. Establishes priorities for the
completion of work in accordance with sound time-management methodology.
- Communication – Excellent ability to communicate complex ideas and proposals effectively so
others will understand to include preparation of reports, agendas, and policies. Excellent ability to
listen and understand information and ideas presented through spoken word or writing. Ability to
handle a variety of issues with tact and diplomacy and in a confidential manner.
- Mathematics – Ability to perform general math calculations such as addition, subtraction,
multiplication and division. Ability to procure, calculate and administer medications.
EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE
Requires an Associate’s Degree in Veterinary Technology or a related field and 1 – 3 years of
professional veterinary technician or related experience, or an equivalent combination of education
and experience.
ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS
Acceptable general background check to include a local and state criminal history check, and sex
offender registry check and a valid driver’s license with an acceptable driving record.
This position requires pre-employment medical evaluation and substance abuse testing and is subject
to random alcohol and controlled substance testing.
Must possess and maintain a current Veterinary Technician license from the Commonwealth of
Virginia.
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PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
- Tasks require the regular and, at times, sustained performance of moderately physically demanding
work.
- Some combination of climbing and balancing to include climbing ladders, stooping, kneeling,
crouching, and crawling.
- May involve the lifting, carrying, pushing, and/or pulling of moderately heavy objects and
materials (20 – 50 pounds).
SENSORY REQUIREMENTS
- Some tasks require the ability to perceive and discriminate sounds, depth, texture, and visual cues
or signals.
- Some tasks require the ability to communicate orally.
ENVIRONMENTAL EXPOSURES
Performance of essential functions may require exposure to adverse environmental conditions, such as
dirt, dust, pollen, odors, wetness, humidity, weather, temperature and noise extremes, hazardous
materials, traffic hazards, bright/dim lights, toxic agents, animal/wildlife attacks, animal/human
bites, explosives, disease, pathogenic substances, or rude/irate customers.
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Title: LICENSED VETERINARY TECHNICIAN – PENINSULA REGIONAL ANIMAL SHELTER
Company: City of Newport News
Location: Newport News, VA
Category:
