Veterinary Technician

GENERAL SUMMARY/OVERVIEW:

The Knight Surgery Research Core (KSRL) operates multiple surgical operating rooms on 2 campuses and is comprised of a Director/Veterinary Surgeon, junior/senior technologists, and veterinary technicians. KSRL encompasses all aspects of large animal surgical research and works with a broad array of basic research specialties. The veterinary technician, under the direction and supervision of the veterinary surgeon, will serve as an integral member of a dynamic surgical services team, working within an operating room setting and with a focus on large animal procedures.

PRINCIPLE DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Provide anesthesia/surgical support. This involves all aspects of perioperative care, including anesthetic induction, maintenance and recovery. Opportunity to assist in surgical procedures as directed by the veterinarian.

• Perform various wet-lab assays, including hematology, chemistry and blood-gas analysis pertinent to animal care. Learn to analyze bloodwork as it pertains to animal health/anesthetic risk.

• Become proficient in radiologic techniques (Xray/Fluoroscopy).

• Perform health checks on surgical patients as appropriate (Pre- and Post-Surgery).

• Learn and perform all relevant supporting functions associated with a busy surgical caseload. This includes instrument preparation, sterilization (chemical/steam), learning instrument nomenclature, supply restocking, OR sanitation and setup, operating and troubleshooting anesthesia/physiologic monitoring equipment.

• Attend various CE seminars and achieve work-relevant certifications - LAT, LATG, ASR etc. Present interesting anesthetic cases etc.

• Learn comparative anatomy and physiology as it pertains to the various species undergoing surgery - nonhuman primates (macaques/baboons), swine, sheep, goats, rabbits.

EDUCATION:

• Bachelor's Degree (Science, Veterinary Science, Marine Biology desired)

• Associate's degree with 1-2 years of experience

• Animal experience desired

SKILLS/ ABILITIES/COMPETENCIES REQUIRED:

• Proficient in verbal and written English and mathematics pertinent to the duties of this position and situations encountered in the animal facility.

• Computer experience in software such as Word, Excel, Access, Outlook and PowerPoint required.

• Capable of working independently and as a team member with fellow veterinary staff and/or animal care staff.

• Ability to make decisions regarding daily veterinary care and to address unusual situations that arise within the animal research facilities.

• Has a customer-focused attitude and enjoys working with similarly dedicated persons in a team fashion within a high-energy research environment.

• Able to correspond with researchers clearly, respectfully and in a timely manner in writing and orally.

WORKING CONDITIONS:

• The animal and surgical facilities have a variety of potential environmental hazards. Specifically, employees may be exposed to noise, dust, and chemicals including anesthetic gases, extreme heat, and animal waste products. The duration of exposure to any of the above is dependent on the assigned duties.

• Some aspects of this position may expose the incumbent to potentially fatal zoonotic diseases. Appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) may be required and will be provided.

• Ability to lift and move 50 lbs. on a regular basis.

• Long periods of standing.

• Work hours beyond standard may be required to accommodate lengthy experiments.