Veterinary Technician

Deschutes Animal Clinic, a state-of-the-art medical, small animal veterinary hospital and a leader in pet health care dedicated to serving the well-being of Tumwater's furry friends, is seeking a Full-Time Licensed Veterinary Technician to join our happy team in this well-established practice.

Nestled into the base of the Puget Sound, Tumwater is the southern gateway to the Seatle/Tacoma metro area. We are a short drive to downtown Olympia, with its eclectic selection of restaurants, art galleries, and quaint shops. With close access to Mount Rainer and Olympic National Park, Tumwater is a picturesque community with convenient access to all the beauty and recreation the Pacific Northwest offers.

We believe in nurturing the human-pet bond and creating a harmonious relationship between people and pets. We provide professional and trusted services, from vaccinations to advanced surgical procedures, and we proudly care for our clients, pets, and each other. We also work with Local 5013C non-profit animal rescue groups and enjoy a close relationship with our local humane society.

Job Summary

The Veterinary Technician is a vital member of our veterinary team, pivotal in delivering exceptional veterinary care to animals. This position involves supporting veterinarians to ensure the highest standards of veterinary medicine, educating clients, and delivering compassionate patient care.

Key Responsibilities

Main Accountabilities:

• Assist in the examination, treatment, and monitoring of animals under the supervision of a veterinarian. Administer medications, vaccines, and treatments as prescribed. Monitor vital signs, collect samples for laboratory analysis, and perform diagnostic tests
• Prepare and analyze laboratory samples such as blood, urine, and feces. Operate and maintain laboratory equipment. Perform diagnostic tests, interpret results, and record findings accurately in patient records
• Prepare surgical suites, instruments, and patients for surgery. Assist veterinarians during surgical procedures by providing appropriate equipment and medications, monitoring anesthesia, and providing post-operative care
• Educate clients about Wellness Plans, animal care, nutrition, medication administration, and disease prevention
• Maintain thorough and accurate medical charting for all patients, consistently meeting hospital quality control standards
• Ensure the proper maintenance and functioning of hospital equipment to support patient care
• Assist in managing hospital supplies, including inventory tracking and restocking as necessary
• Contribute to the day-to-day flow and efficiency of the hospital, collaborating with team members to optimize operations
• Act as an advocate for the overall success and performance of the hospital
• Perform select reception duties, such as triaging phone calls, scheduling appointments, and facilitating the intake and discharge of patients

• Consistently provide professional, efficient, and exceptional service
• Demonstrate excellent communication and organizational skills when interacting with the veterinary team and clients
• Effectively adapt to individual clients and their needs
• Effectively resolve customer complaints as appropriate

• Adhere to OSHA standards and regulations as outlined in company policies
• Ability to perform other job duties as assigned

• Stay up to date with the latest advancements in veterinary medicine through ongoing professional development and continuing education to maintain certification and improve knowledge and skills
• Work independently and exercise good judgment
• Multi-task effectively
• Complete work, maintaining a high level of accuracy while managing constant interruptions
• Remain action-oriented and effectively set priorities
• Work well in an extremely fast-paced work environment, remaining calm and resilient
• Exhibit proactive initiative in addressing tasks and challenges as they arise
• Learn new computer software systems (EMR, Scheduling, etc. )
• Provide a high level of accountability

• Handling and restraining dogs, cats, and exotic animals
• Providing basic animal care, such as feeding, bathing, grooming, and monitoring for signs of distress or illness
• Knowledge of and experience with common veterinary medical procedures, including surgery, dentistry, radiology, laboratory diagnostics, and anesthesia management
• Familiarity with veterinary medical terminology and abbreviations used in patient records and communication
• Understanding of veterinary medications, including dosage calculations, drug interactions, and administration methods

• Strong customer service focus while effectively adapting to individual clients and their needs
• Excellent communication skills and the ability to manage a variety of emotional situations - remaining empathetic, compassionate, and approachable

• High school diploma or equivalent associate degree a plus!
• Must have and maintain a valid certification, registration, or licensing. CVT, RVT, or LVT (state specific)
• 1+ years of veterinary hospital experience

• The Vet Technician position is performed onsite at our hospital or an approved offsite event location. Remote work is not available for this position
• Hospital environment includes limited space, smells from pet waste, and noise (barking, etc. )
• Schedules may include 10+ hour shifts, Saturdays, evenings, and holidays
• Good hand-eye coordination, arm-hand-finger dexterity with the ability to reach and grasp, and visual acuity to use a keyboard, operate equipment, and read information
• Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus
• Ability to lift 50+ pounds
• Able to stand, walk, stoop, kneel, crouch, and climb
• May routinely be exposed to pets that may bite or scratch, biological hazards, anesthesia medications (smells), radiation if near an Xray machine, prescription medications, including controlled substances