Shelter Veterinary Technician

SPCA Florida•Lakeland, FL

22d

About The Position

SPCA Florida is hiring a Shelter Veterinary Technician to provide medical care to shelter animals in a no-kill shelter environment without client appointments. The role supports the health and welfare of shelter dogs and cats, working collaboratively with veterinary and shelter teams to deliver ethical, humane, and high-standard care. The position involves varied medical cases and animal needs in a fast-paced setting, with opportunities to build expertise in shelter medicine and contribute directly to SPCA Florida’s mission.

Requirements

Relevant experience and a strong foundation in general or shelter veterinary medicine.
Strong knowledge of veterinary nursing and patient care.
Comfort handling dogs and cats of varying sizes, temperaments, and medical conditions.
Strong attention to detail and organizational skills.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
Ability to work effectively independently and as part of a team.
Ability to prioritize and manage multiple responsibilities in a fast-paced environment.
Compassionate, patient, and professional approach to animal care.
Commitment to humane treatment and high standards of veterinary care.
Calm and approachable demeanor, dependability, conscientiousness, and adaptability.
Successful completion of a background check is required.

Nice To Haves

Graduation from an AVMA-accredited Veterinary Technology program is preferred.
Shelter medicine or animal welfare experience is a plus.

Responsibilities

Monitor shelter animals’ health and well-being through daily medical rounds.
Follow up on medical concerns reported verbally, by email, or through established medical communication systems.
Identify changes in an animal’s condition and communicate them to the appropriate veterinary team member.
Administer medications and vaccines according to established shelter protocols and veterinary direction.
Check in new animals through the shelter’s medical intake process.
Perform and document routine medical treatments and procedures.
Assist veterinarians during surgery, including patient preparation, anesthesia monitoring, and recovery.
Assist with surgical and medical procedures as directed by the veterinarian.
Monitor patients before, during, and after procedures.
Maintain accurate medical records and documentation.
Maintain cleanliness, organization, and appropriate inventory in medical treatment and surgical areas.
Communicate questions, concerns, and medical updates to veterinary and shelter team members.
Respond to questions and concerns from staff, volunteers, adopters, and fosters by phone, email, and in person in a timely and professional manner.
Work collaboratively with shelter and veterinary staff to support animal health and welfare.
Follow established medical protocols, safety procedures, and animal welfare standards.
Assist with other shelter medical duties as needed.

Benefits

Competitive hourly pay based on experience.
403(b) Retirement Plan.
Paid holidays.
Paid time off: 10 days (80 hours) after 60 days of employment during the first year.
Health insurance, with SPCA Florida contributing approximately 75% of the premium.
Dental and vision insurance.
$30,000 employer-paid life insurance at no cost.
Career growth and advancement opportunities.
Professional development and continuing education opportunities.
Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) eligibility.
Employee Assistance Program.
Bereavement leave, including up to three paid days.
Up to 40 hours of paid jury duty leave.
Personal pet care discounts.