Technician (RVT), Large Animal

We are excited to hear from you! If you are interested in applying, please apply directly to our job posting HERE.

If you have any questions, please reach out to vmc_recruiting@usask.ca

We are seeking enthusiastic, registered veterinary technologists (RVTs) who would like to join our amazing animal health team! The WCVM Veterinary Medical Centre has served as Western Canada’s only veterinary teaching hospital for more than five decades. Our internationally accredited centre offers a wide range of primary and referral services to all western Canadian animal owners and veterinarians.

Why work with us? We offer access to advanced technologies and equipment; progressive supportive work environment; opportunities for job advancement and continuing education; team approach to patient care and client services; and excellent health benefits!

Primary Purpose: The primary purpose of this position is to contribute to the efficient operation of the Large Animal Hospital by providing technical assistance to clinicians and undergraduate students.

Nature of Work: Reporting to the Manager Operations, the technician provides compassionate, quality patient care consistent with the general philosophy and objectives of the VMC. Animal handling and manipulations are a constant part of the position. This position works in an animal facility housing large animals which exposes the employee to animal dander, waste, feed, and unpredictability. It requires a substantial amount of lifting, moving, kneeling, jogging, and cleaning of equipment/workspaces. Subject to some unpleasant odours, dress code, and traffic pattern restrictions. Note: This position is extremely physical in nature and requires the ability to run alongside of horses, handle stallions, and be capable of continuous kneeling, crouching, and climbing. You will be required to work both inside and outside at all times of the year in unpredictable climates and terrains.

Typical Duties/Accountabilities: Responsibilities include: under the direction of senior technicians and clinicians, assist with diagnostic and therapeutic procedures (including special imaging) on animals presented to or in the care of the Large Animal Clinic and Field Service and participates in daily patient care; assist with the demonstration/instruction of basic skills to undergraduate and veterinary technology program students; and provides technical assistance to interns, residents and undergraduates in daily duties. The technician is responsible for the maintenance of equipment/supplies, handling and restraining of animals, sedation, assisting with surgical, medical and radiology procedures, maintenance of medical records, implementation of orders issued by clinicians, and maintenance of the facility. Incumbent will orient and remain current with respect to workplace safety and security procedures/policies. When caseload fluctuates within the Large Animal Clinic, this position is expected to assist within the VMC as an RVT with other duties as assigned. During periods of low activity or high demand, this individual may be assigned to other areas within the Veterinary Medical Centre.

The incumbent will competently perform basic and introductory duties independently.

Technicians at this level will perform advanced skills/duties of all core services including LA therio, medicine, surgery, field service, equine, bovine, and LA medical imaging as defined by the VMC. Skills and duties and required safety at this level are above average in complexity and require a sound knowledge of Large Animal services. The incumbent can adapt their skill set to problem-solve situations, which are often time-sensitive, and troubleshoot challenging or unique situations through discussions with senior technicians and other qualified personnel. The incumbent will orient and remain current with respect to workplace safety and security procedures/policies.

Qualifications

Education: A graduate of a recognized two-year veterinary technology program; and registered or eligible for registration with the Saskatchewan Association of Veterinary Technologists (SAVT). Preference will be given to candidates certified with the Academy of Equine Veterinary Nursing (AEVN) or the Academy of Internal medicine for Veterinary Technicians (AIMVT). Must hold and maintain a valid province of Saskatchewan driver’s license with good standing.

Experience: A minimum of three years of direct experience in a hospital setting working with large animals, i.e. equine, bovine, caprine, ovine, porcine, and some exotics. Demonstrated experience with directing and evaluating the work of others.

Skills: Demonstrated strong technical and critical thinking skills in the various fields mentioned above, effective interpersonal and communication skills, both oral and written; ability to adapt to and work in a dynamic work environment maintaining a professional and positive demeanor; strong handling and safety skills for working with large animals with the ability to recognize potentially dangerous situations and take appropriate action.; ability to effectively work independently as well as part of a team; ability to evaluate the work of others; ability to anticipate potential needs/problems and deal with them; ability to make sound decisions based on objective judgment within the framework of hospital policy; demonstrated effective organizational and time management skills; and ability to perform heavy physical labour with restraint/care of animals and equipment. Radiography and special imaging (MRI, CT, scintigraphy) experience will be considered an asset.

While applicants who meet the qualifications of a CUPE 1975 Phase 5 listed above will be given priority, we may also consider applicants who are not fully qualified but show an interest in learning and developing their skills. Successful applicants who do not meet our full qualifications may be offered the position at a lower classification (CUPE 1975 Phase 4 or CUPE 1975 Phase 3) and therefore a lower pay rate. We will provide training, support, and an opportunity to move to the fully qualified level.

A CUPE 1975 Phase 4 RVT will be under the supervision of a senior RVT, possess the education qualifications listed above, have 2 – 3 years direct experience in a veterinary practice or other veterinary college, and be able to competently perform basic and introductory duties independently. The salary range is CAD $23.35 - $30.61 per hour.

A CUPE 1975 Phase 3 RVT will be under the direct supervision of a senior RVT, possess the education qualifications listed above, have less than 2 years direct experience in a veterinary practice or other veterinary colleges (new grads welcome!), and be able to perform basic skills and duties that were achieved as a result of graduating from a recognized Veterinary Technology Program. The salary range is CAD $21.55 - $25.13 per hour