VETERINARY TECHNICIAN

Looking for a rewarding position as a full-time veterinary technician with excellent benefits helping pets in need? Loudoun County Animal Services (LCAS) is seeking a veterinary technician to join the medical team at our state-of-the-art animal shelter and veterinary clinic.

LCAS is looking for a compassionate, collaborative, and motivated individual to work alongside our shelter veterinarian and a second veterinary technician providing preventative and comprehensive medical and behavioral care to approximately 2,300 animals each year, including exotics and livestock. LCAS is the first public shelter to meet 100% of the ASV Animal Shelter Guidelines, and on-site equipment includes a radiology suite, ultrasound, blood work, and a high-speed dental machine.

Routine duties will include:

• Assisting the veterinarian with daily rounds and in surgery
• Providing daily treatments and preventative care
• Supporting public vaccine clinics, following up with animals in foster care, and providing preventative care. 

Successful applicants will be proficient in standard and advanced veterinary nursing skills, including but not limited to venipuncture, surgical monitoring (including pre- and post-surgical care), IV catheter placement, dental prophies, body condition scoring, administration of medicines via all routes, neonatal kitten care, vaccination protocols, training non-medical personnel in clinic procedures, and physical examination of all animals in our care. Candidates must be able to demonstrate consistent case management skills and sound judgement, while recognizing the differences between high quality shelter medicine and private practice operations. The applicant must have thorough knowledge of the care and handling of companion animals, preferably with some familiarity with exotic animals and livestock. Strong verbal and written communication skills are required.

Loudoun County Regular Full-time Employees are eligible for full benefits including but not limited to the following as a part of a total rewards package!

• Retirement from the Virginia Retirement System (VRS)
• Annual leave
• Sick leave
• Annual Paid Holidays
• Group Health Plan
• Group Life Insurance
• Exceptional Performance Recognition
• Credit Union Membership
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Education and Career Development

Hiring salary is commensurate with experience.

• Four (4) years total related experience or Associates of Applied Science Degree in Animal Health/Veterinary Technology OR related field and two (2) years related experience
• Veterinary Technician licensed in Virginia preferred, but not required
• Must possess a valid driver's license
• Bilingual a plus

• This position is expected to be physically demanding, with the potential for exposure to infectious diseases, viruses, noxious fumes and chemicals, extended time standing on feet, as well as risk of injury.
• A rabies pre-exposure vaccination series will commence immediately upon hire unless proof of prior vaccination is provided.
• Must have the ability to handle large and potentially dangerous animals over 75 pounds confidently and safely.
• Although veterinary staff work a set schedule, they do rotate an on-call coverage for infrequent emergencies and routine (mostly phone) support of pets in foster care, primarily neonatal kittens.
• Must complete Fear Free Shelters certification within 90 days of hire and feel comfortable with science-based, low-stress handling techniques
• Must successfully complete a physical examination

The candidate will undergo a criminal background check and medical examination, including a drug screening. A valid driver's license required.

Candidates may not have fears of companion animals, exotics or livestock. Although approximately 95% of animals arriving at LCAS are placed, as a veterinary technician you will be called upon to perform or assist with the euthanasia of animals that are deemed irredeemably suffering, dangerous, or are not treatable or manageable within the limitations of the shelter setting. The technician must obtain state-required euthanasia certification within six months of employment. The candidate will also be required to obtain certifications in CPR, first aid, and Incident Command System 100 and 200, and attend ongoing trainings throughout the duration of employment.