Veterinary Technician

Job Description

Job Description

Job Summary

The Registered Veterinary Technician (RVT) provides skilled nursing care and technical support for animals in both surgical and medical settings under the supervision of a licensed veterinarian. This position plays a vital role in ensuring high-quality medical care for both client-owned and shelter animals. The RVT also assists in training and supporting veterinary assistants and other shelter team members to strengthen the organization’s overall medical and animal care operations.
All duties are to be performed in alignment with the mission and values of Paws Humane Society—promoting compassion, respect, and professionalism in every interaction.

Medical and Surgical Support

• Assist veterinarians during exams, surgeries, dental procedures, and medical treatments.

• Induce, monitor, and recover animals under anesthesia, ensuring accurate documentation and patient safety.

• Administer medications, vaccines, anesthetics, and treatments as prescribed by the veterinarian.

• Perform dental cleanings, charting, and extractions (as permitted by state law).

• Provide pre- and post-operative care, including patient preparation, wound management, and pain assessment.

• Collect and prepare samples for laboratory testing (blood, urine, fecal, cytology, etc.) and perform diagnostic tests as trained.

• Take and process digital radiographs following safety protocols.

• Assist with emergency triage and life-saving procedures when necessary.

• Maintain and sterilize surgical instruments and ensure all equipment is properly cleaned and functional.

Shelter Animal Medical Care

• Assist the veterinarian in examining, diagnosing, and treating shelter animals.

• Administer routine and prescribed medical treatments for shelter animals, including vaccinations, deworming, and medications.

• Monitor the health and well-being of shelter animals and report concerns promptly to the veterinarian.

• Support and coordinate preventive health programs (e.g., vaccination schedules, parasite control, and health assessments).

• Maintain accurate medical records for all shelter animals, ensuring information is complete and up to date.

• Collaborate with shelter management to ensure consistent medical care standards across departments.

Training and Team Support

• Provide hands-on training and mentorship to veterinary assistants and other shelter team members learning clinic or animal care procedures.

• Demonstrate and teach safe animal handling, restraint, medical protocols, and equipment operation.

• Support staff development by modeling professionalism, teamwork, and compassion in all aspects of care.

• Assist with onboarding and continued training for new hires, volunteers, and cross-departmental staff who participate in shelter medical operations.

Inventory and Clinic Operations

• Manage clinic inventory, including ordering, tracking, and rotating supplies and medications.

• Monitor inventory usage and expiration dates to ensure availability and compliance with standards.

• Maintain an organized and clean storage and treatment environment.

• Assist with equipment maintenance and coordinate service or repairs as needed.

• Support efficiency and cost control through responsible supply management.

• Ensure all areas of the clinic meet cleanliness and safety standards.

Administrative and Organizational Support

• Accurately document all medical procedures, treatments, and observations in patient and shelter records.

• Assist with scheduling, patient flow, and administrative tasks to support daily operations.

• Collaborate closely with veterinarians, staff, and volunteers to ensure smooth workflow.

• Engage with volunteers respectfully, providing guidance and expressing appreciation for their contributions.

• Perform other duties as assigned. Responsibilities may evolve as the organization’s needs grow.

Qualifications

• Must be a Registered Veterinary Technician (RVT) or Licensed Veterinary Technician (LVT/CVT) in the state of Georgia, or eligible for registration.

• Minimum of 1–2 years of experience in a veterinary clinic, hospital, or animal shelter preferred.

• Experience in high-quality, high-volume spay/neuter (HQHVSN) or shelter medicine strongly preferred.

• Proficiency in veterinary software systems and digital recordkeeping.

• Current rabies vaccination or willingness to obtain upon hire.