Animal Health Assistant (Developmental) Nf-02/03

U.S. Army Medical Command • Luke AFB, AZ

3d • Onsite

About The Position

This developmental Animal Health Assistant position is located at the Luke AFB Veterinary Treatment Facility. The role assists veterinarians and medical staff with patient care, surgical preparation and support, medication and vaccine administration, prescription preparation, and client counseling on animal husbandry and preventive wellness. The position is offered at NF-02 or NF-03, with qualifications determined by grade level. It is a flexible/intermittent position with no guaranteed weekly hours and may be scheduled for 0–40 hours per week based on mission needs. Work schedule will be determined after hire.

Requirements

• For NF-02: Work experience demonstrating the ability to perform the duties, which may have been gained through pet store work, farm work, animal shelter work, or similar experience.
• For NF-02: Knowledge of approved animal restraint techniques consistent with AVMA or equivalent guidelines, and knowledge of proper vaccine and syringe handling.
• For NF-03: At least six months of directly related experience gained through practical application in a veterinary medical setting, demonstrating the knowledge, clinical skills, and abilities needed to perform the work consistent with AVMA or equivalent guidelines.
• For NF-03: Proficiency in basic medical terminology; appropriate animal restraint, sterile techniques, and radiological techniques; and recording medical history and treatment in ccSOAP.
• For NF-03: Ability to explain product information and treatment plans to clients as directed by a veterinarian; determine preventive wellness plans based on patient medical history; perform diagnostic tests using in-house laboratory equipment; maintain that equipment; complete reference laboratory request forms; and prepare samples for shipment.
• Submit a resume of no more than two pages that clearly and specifically documents relevant experience, skills, knowledge, and abilities.
• Meet qualification, eligibility, and background requirements; satisfactorily complete an E-Verify check; and provide direct deposit information and a Social Security card.
• A one-year probationary period may be required.
• Be able to work occasional Saturdays for special events.
• Have no aversion to animals, blood, bodily fluids, animal tissues, strong odors, needles, or sharp instruments.
• Be able to lift animals and supplies weighing up to 45 pounds and, on occasion, more than 45 pounds with help; tolerate long periods of standing, walking, restraining, kneeling, and reaching; use fingers; use both hands and both legs; and tolerate intermittent excessive noise.
• Complete a successful DCSA background investigation submission no later than 30 calendar days after entry on duty or placement for internal candidates, and receive a favorable suitability determination.
• Be able to receive all mandated immunizations for work in a direct-patient capacity or veterinary environment under AR 40-562, chapter 4-1.
• Be within the stated area of consideration or meet one of the listed eligibility conditions for commuting, self-funded relocation, involuntary military separation, or military-spouse/family relocation.

Nice To Haves

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

Responsibilities

• Assist the veterinarian with preparation for and support during surgical procedures, including preparing surgery packs, scalpel blades, and suture material, and monitoring patients with 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.
• Use knowledge of common topics to help clients address common animal husbandry problems.
• Provide individualized wellness counseling to clients using knowledge of preventive care, disease prevention, lifestyle risks, and veterinary care.
• At the NF-03 level, perform routine medical and diagnostic procedures using appropriate animal restraint, sterile techniques, and radiological techniques.
• At the NF-03 level, record medical history and treatment in ccSOAP; explain product information or treatment plans to clients as directed by the veterinarian; and determine preventive wellness plans based on patient medical history.
• At the NF-03 level, use and maintain in-house laboratory equipment, perform diagnostic tests, complete laboratory request forms, and prepare samples for shipment to outside laboratories.

Benefits

• Flexible employees may participate in the NAF 401(k) plan; some flexible employees may also be eligible for health insurance.
• 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.
• Many Army NAF employees have opportunities for professional development, including training, education, and certification programs.
• Army NAF employees may access some on-base facilities, including fitness centers and libraries.

What This Job Offers

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