Animal Health Assistant (Developmental) - NF-02/NF-03

U.S. Army Medical Command • Kirtland AFB, NM

2d • Onsite

About The Position

This developmental Animal Health Assistant position is located at the Kirtland Air Force Base Veterinary Treatment Facility. The role supports veterinarians with patient care, surgical preparation and assistance, medication administration, and client wellness counseling. The position is classified at NF-02 or NF-03, with grade determined by qualifications. It is a flexible/intermittent position with no guaranteed weekly hours; employees may be scheduled from 0 to 40 hours per week based on mission needs. The work schedule is determined after hire.

Requirements

• NF-02: Work experience demonstrating the ability to perform the duties; experience may come from settings such as a pet store, farm, or animal shelter.
• NF-02: Knowledge of approved animal restraint techniques consistent with AVMA or equivalent guidelines.
• NF-02: Knowledge of proper vaccine and syringe handling.
• NF-03: At least six months of directly related experience gained through practical application in a veterinary medical setting.
• NF-03: Demonstrated proficiency in basic medical terminology and correct sterile techniques.
• NF-03: Ability to use appropriate restraint techniques for routine medical and diagnostic procedures, including proper radiological techniques.
• NF-03: Proficiency recording medical history and treatment in ccSOAP (Chief Complaint, Subjective, Objective, Assessment, Plan).
• NF-03: Ability to explain product information and/or treatment plans to clients as directed by the veterinarian.
• NF-03: Ability to determine preventive wellness plans, including required medical treatments and vaccinations, based on patient medical history.
• NF-03: Ability to use and conduct routine maintenance on in-house laboratory equipment, complete reference laboratory request forms, and prepare samples for shipment to outside laboratories.
• Must provide a resume of two pages or less that clearly and specifically demonstrates relevant experience, skills, knowledge, and abilities.
• Must meet qualification, eligibility, and background requirements and satisfactorily complete an employment verification (E-Verify) check.
• Direct deposit and a Social Security card are required.
• A one-year probationary period may be required.
• Must be able to work occasional Saturdays for special events.
• Must not have an aversion to animals, blood, bodily fluids, animal tissues, strong odors, needles, or sharp instruments.
• Must be able to receive all mandated immunizations for work in a direct-patient capacity and/or veterinary environment in accordance with AR 40-562, chapter 4-1.
• A successful DCSA background investigation submission must be completed no later than 30 calendar days after entry on duty or placement for internal candidates; appointment is subject to a favorable suitability determination.
• Must be within the stated area of consideration or meet one of the listed eligibility circumstances, including ability to commute daily/as needed, self-funded relocation, involuntary military separation, or qualifying military-spouse/family relocation.

Nice To Haves

• NF-02: Demonstrated proficiency in basic medical terminology; appropriate restraint techniques for routine medical and diagnostic procedures, including radiological techniques; recording medical history and treatment in ccSOAP; and explaining product information and/or treatment plans to clients as directed by the veterinarian.
• NF-03: Possess, or have the ability to reactivate or obtain, registration, a license, or certification as a veterinary assistant or higher through an accredited program.
• NF-03: Basic supply management experience, including ordering supplies, maintaining stock levels, conducting monthly inventory counts, and documenting expiration dates of medications and vaccines.

Responsibilities

• Assist the veterinarian in preparing for and during surgical procedures, including preparing surgery packs, scalpel blades, and suture material, and monitoring patients using an anesthetic machine.
• Serve as a scrubbed surgical assistant when needed.
• Keep medical staff informed of changes in a patient's general condition during surgical procedures.
• Prepare and administer vaccinations and oral and topical medications as prescribed by the veterinarian.
• Prepare and dispense prescription medication according to veterinarian instructions.
• Apply knowledge of common topics to help clients solve common husbandry problems.
• Provide individualized wellness counseling to clients using knowledge of preventive care, disease prevention, lifestyle risks, and veterinary care.

Benefits

• Flexible employees may participate in the NAF 401(k) plan.
• Some flexible employees may be eligible for health insurance.
• Many Army NAF employees have opportunities for professional development, including training, education, and certification programs.
• On-base facilities may be available, including fitness centers and libraries.
• Regular full-time and part-time employees are eligible for health and life insurance, 401(k) and retirement plans, paid personal time off, and federal holidays.

What This Job Offers

• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: No Education Listed