Veterinary Technician

Seminole County/Board of County Commissioners•Sanford, FL

About The Position

Performs technical duties assisting the Veterinarian and helps evaluate the health of shelter animals and manage the shelter population. Duties include administering vaccinations and medications, performing diagnostic testing, and assisting with surgery and anesthesia. Salary depends on qualifications, and additional compensation is available based on licensure.

Requirements

High school diploma or GED and two years of experience as a Veterinary Technician, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
Complete Florida Animal Control Association Officer Certification, Florida Animal Control Association Euthanasia Certification, and Crematorium Certification within one year of employment.
Knowledge of animal behavior and signs and severity of common animal diseases.
Knowledge of medications used to prevent common communicable diseases and to euthanize or tranquilize animals.
Skill in using instruments and equipment for medical and surgical treatment of animals.
Knowledge of procedures for capturing and restraining animals.
Ability to safely and effectively handle animals of various sizes and temperaments.
Must be inoculated against rabies before completing the probationary period.
Ability to establish and maintain professional relationships with the public, Veterinarians, staff, and volunteers involved in animal care.
Ability to handle emotional and difficult situations professionally and courteously.
Must possess and maintain a valid Florida Driver’s License.
Must attend required Seminole County training and any applicable position-specific training.

Nice To Haves

Veterinary Technician certification is preferred.

Responsibilities

Examine incoming animals for signs of injury or illness and alert the Veterinarian when medical treatment is needed.
Administer injectable, oral, or topical medications as directed.
Advise the Veterinarian when an animal should be evaluated for euthanasia and perform euthanasia under the Veterinarian’s direction.
Collect and test blood, urine, and fecal samples; maintain laboratory machines and equipment.
Vaccinate animals and place microchips.
Maintain medical records and drug logs.
Monitor inventory of medications, surgical supplies, and kennel supplies.
Prepare animals for surgery and administer and monitor anesthesia.
Clean surgical equipment and maintain the autoclave.
Prepare specimens for rabies testing by the Health Department.
Evaluate animal behavior to help determine adoptability and safe handling.
Clean and disinfect shelter areas as directed, and maintain cages and equipment in good repair.
Operate the onsite crematory and prepare animal remains.
Assist Animal Control Officers and perform Animal Control Officer duties when required.
Assist with monitoring and inspecting licensed kennels in accordance with the Seminole County Code.
Monitor and document the performance of Community Service workers.
Work holidays, weekends, and emergency response operations; participate in rotational on-call coverage and respond after normal working hours.
Perform other assigned or necessary duties, including alternate duties during emergencies.
Attend Seminole County required training and any position-specific departmental training.