Veterinary Technician in Richmond, Vermont at Richmond Animal Hospital

Veterinary Technician

Position Purpose

The Entry-Level Veterinary Technician serves as a vital component of the hospital’s clinical engine. This role is designed for a recent graduate or newly licensed professional to apply their foundational medical skills to include patient restraint, venipuncture, and anesthesia induction, within a fast-paced, collaborative environment.

Key Responsibilities

Advanced Clinical Nursing & Surgery

• Under the direction of a veterinarian, prepare patients, instruments, and equipment for surgery; maintain sterile fields; and provide specialized nursing care during post-operative recovery.
• Induce, administer, and monitor general anesthesia using multi-parameter monitors, ensuring all support equipment—including anesthetic machines and breathing apparatus—are in optimal working condition.
• Execute confident blood draws from the jugular, cephalic, and saphenous vessels; administer fluids, blood products, and medications as prescribed.
• Utilize safe and effective restraint techniques for examinations and clinical procedures.
• Provide comprehensive nursing care for injured or ill animals, including the recording of vital signs, weights, and detailed patient histories.

Laboratory & Diagnostics

• Perform high-quality standard and dental radiographs, demonstrating proper positioning while strictly adhering to radiation safety protocols.
• Execute in-hospital laboratory testing and prepare specimens for reference labs, processing work immediately to maintain efficient patient flow.
• Manage the pharmacy and inventory of pharmaceuticals and medical supplies according to AAHA or state standards.
• Client Education & Communication
• Educate clients on wellness, preventative care, vaccines, and parasite prevention in a compassionate and professional manner.
• Provide detailed instruction on the use of prescribed medications, specialized dietary products, and the benefits of recommended services such as dental cleanings or senior wellness.
• Conduct professional client callbacks and facilitate surgery admissions and discharges to ensure a seamless experience for pet families.

Hospital Integration, Safety, & Training

• Assist veterinarians, veterinary assistants, and client care coordinators in any appropriate capacity to maintain team competency and clinical efficiency.
• Follow Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) to ensure consistent patient care and operational excellence.
• Accurately log controlled substances and maintain the pharmacy according to AAHA or state standards.
• Maintain the SDS manual and follow proper protocols.
• Be knowledgeable regarding related federal and state animal health laws and regulations including OSHA and DEA; ensure everyone is in compliance; inform Lead Veterinary Technician of any regulatory issues.
• Maintain cleanliness of exam rooms, surgery suite and treatment areas.
• Ensure equipment is properly cleaned and cared for.
• Discard syringes, vials, and other materials in appropriate containers.

Professionalism & Culture

• Actively contribute to a workplace rooted in "warmth and respect," ensuring a supportive environment.
• Maintain high clinical standards by pursuing ongoing education and utilizing continuing education funds to enhance professional skills and share knowledge with the team.
• Prioritize "collaborating with each other" by offering a hand when a colleague is busy and assuming good intent in all daily interactions to maintain a positive, unified hospital energy.
• Uphold the hospital’s reputation by adhering to established "Team Charter", including professional appearance, punctuality, and transparent communication in all clinical areas.
• Proactively manage hospital flow and take ownership of clinical roles to ensure the hospital runs efficiently and appointments remain on schedule
• Attend staff and department meetings

Our Core Values

Hospitality-Focused Care

We treat pet families with warmth and respect, creating lasting connections through education and a seamless experience.

High-Quality Pet Care

Exceptional care is a team effort. We prioritize collaboration, ongoing education, and modern practices to ensure the best outcomes.

Staff Empowerment

We recognize that a strong staff leads to strong care. We support your growth and celebrate your wins.

Community Engagement & Philanthropy

Being a good neighbor is as vital as being a good veterinary practice. We invest in the Vermont community that supports us.

Professional Skills

• Proven ability to work independently on assigned tasks while remaining receptive to direct guidance and supervision from the Lead Veterinary Technician and Veterinarians.
• Skilled at using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions or approaches to clinical problems.
• Proficiency in assisting veterinarians with comprehensive medical and surgical procedures, including physical exams, dental work, and anesthesia.
• Ability to maintain a calm, professional demeanor in fast-paced or emotionally taxing environments without compromising performance or team attitude.
• Strong verbal and written skills tailored for clear client education and professional staff interactions.
• Dedicated to fostering a positive, inclusive work environment by prioritizing mutual respect and "Hospitality-Focused" interactions with colleagues

Qualifications & Requirements

• 0–2 years of experience in a clinical or surgical setting.
• Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Veterinary Technology from an AVMA-accredited program.
• Ability to operate in a condensed 4-day, 10-hour work week to support work-life balance.
• CVT, LVT, or RVT status (or eligibility to sit for the VTNE).
• Mastery of IV catheter placement, proficiency in EMR software, and a foundational understanding of pharmacology/dosage calculations.

Physical Requirements & Environment

• Ability to lift 50 lbs and remain mobile for 10-hour shifts.
• High tolerance for a fast-paced and emotionally taxing environment.
• Strict compliance with safety standards regarding radiation and waste anesthetic gas