Shelter Medicine Licensed Veterinary Technician

Michigan Humane • Westland, MI

1d • Onsite

About The Position

The Shelter Medicine Licensed Veterinary Technician is part of the Shelter Medicine team and is responsible for diagnosing and caring for animals at Michigan Humane using technical and nursing skills. The role involves medical and behavioral evaluation, treatment, laboratory testing, radiology, surgical and dental assistance, and routine animal care. The technician also supports animal recovery, maintains medical equipment and supplies, and assists with humane euthanasia procedures.

Michigan Humane is a nonprofit animal welfare organization that provides compassionate care and advocacy for animals, including rescue, rehabilitation, and adoption services. The organization describes itself as mission-based and offers a collaborative work environment, opportunities for professional development, and a commitment to improving outcomes for animals and families in the community.

Requirements

• A minimum of 1–3 years of relevant experience.
• Licensed by the State of Michigan.
• Good decision-making skills and attention to detail, with the ability to follow directions.
• Demonstrated animal-handling skills.
• Ability to run basic medical tests, perform basic laboratory work, and administer vaccines as directed.
• Ability to handle stress and remain calm in emergency situations.
• Flexibility and ability to handle changes in a fast-paced work environment.
• Compassion toward animals, their owners, and community members.
• Ability to consistently adhere to prescribed protocols.
• Ability to lift 50 pounds and perform active tasks such as cleaning, kneeling, and lifting.
• Ability to walk, stand, or work in a bent position for extended periods.
• Ability to work in an animal-care environment involving animal odors, noises, feces, and possible exposure to fractious animals.

Responsibilities

• Humanely treat and care for all animals entrusted to Michigan Humane.
• Evaluate animals medically and behaviorally and assess their overall condition; clip nails and wings, screen for parasites, clean ears, and arrange sterilization when appropriate.
• Place intravenous catheters, administer and monitor fluids, and perform phlebotomy.
• Place microchips, administer vaccines, and select controlled substances under veterinary supervision.
• Assist veterinarians during surgery by preparing patients, calculating and administering anesthesia, monitoring patient vitals before, during, and after surgery, logging controlled substances, cleaning instruments and work areas, and completing surgical paperwork.
• Oversee patient recovery and maintain surgery equipment, supplies, and packs.
• Handle and position animals for radiological examinations, select appropriate X-ray techniques, and develop and properly identify radiographs.
• Collect, prepare, and perform laboratory tests on feces, urine, blood, skin, and body fluids; maintain knowledge of laboratory procedures and maintenance.
• Perform routine procedures such as nail trims, ear cleaning, and bathing, and maintain a clean work environment.
• Assist medical staff with humane euthanasia procedures.
• Administer anesthesia to dental patients; perform full-mouth X-rays and dental examinations; clean teeth; assist veterinarians with extractions; and monitor patient vitals during dental procedures.
• Perform specialized procedures such as ultrasounds and EKGs.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and benefits.
• Medical, vision, and dental insurance.
• 403(b) retirement savings account.
• Professional development, growth, and continuing education opportunities.
• Positive and collaborative work environment.
• Work-life balance and flexible working hours, including a compressed work schedule option.
• Paid time off and holidays.
• Human and pet bereavement leave.
• Clinic discounts of up to 75% off services for employees’ pets.
• Relaxed dress code.
• Wellness program with professional counseling services available to employees.
• Animal food discount.
• Free or discounted adoption fees.
• Sabbatical policy.
• Uniform allowance.
• Paid parental leave.
• Yearly performance reviews and employee engagement surveys.
• Eligibility for student loan relief through the Public Service Loan Forgiveness program.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: No Education Listed