Large Animal Technician, Veterinary Medical Centre

University of Saskatchewan; Saskatoon; On-site; CAD 41,000 - 52,000; Full time

Job summary

University of Saskatchewan's Veterinary Medical Centre is seeking a Large Animal Technician to support clinicians and undergraduate students. The role involves handling and caring for large animals in a dynamic hospital setting, with duties spanning diagnostic procedures and patient care.

The position requires a two-year veterinary technology credential, SAVT registration eligibility, and at least three years’ experience with large animals.

Qualifications

• Graduate of a recognized two-year veterinary technology program.
• Registered or eligible for registration with the Saskatchewan Association of Veterinary Technologists.
• Minimum three years of direct experience in a hospital setting with large animals.

Responsibilities

• Assist with diagnostic and therapeutic procedures for large animals.
• Maintain medical records and assist with radiology procedures.
• Restrain and handle animals; ensure safety and welfare.
• Provide instruction to students and interns.
• Maintain equipment and supplies; support clinicians and students.

Skills

Technical skills

Interpersonal skills

Communication skills

Teamwork

Time management

Radiography experience

Education

Veterinary Technology Diploma

SAVT Registration Eligibility

AEVN/AIMVT preference

Tools

MRI

CT

Scintigraphy

Job description

Large Animal Technician, Veterinary Medical Centre

Primary Purpose: 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 Health Services, you will provide compassionate, quality patient care consistent with the general philosophy and objectives of the Veterinary Medical Centre. Animal handling and manipulation are a constant part of this position. You will be working in a facility housing large animals which expose the employee to animal dander, waste, feed, and unpredictability. It requires a substantial amount of lifting, moving, kneeling, jogging, and cleaning of equipment and workspaces. Subject to unpleasant odours, dress code, and traffic pattern restrictions. Note: This position is extremely physical in nature and requires the ability to run alongside 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 climate conditions and terrains.

Typical Duties or Accountabilities: 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; provides technical assistance to interns, residents and undergraduates in daily duties). The technician oversees the maintenance of equipment/supplies, handling and restraining of animals, sedation, aiding with surgical, medical and radiology procedures, maintenance of medical records, implementation of orders issued by clinicians and maintenance of the facility. You will orient and remain current with respect to workplace safety and security procedures/policies. When caseload fluctuates withing the Large Animal Clinic, this position is expected to provide aid within the VMC as an RVT with other duties as assigned.

Education: A graduate of a recognized two‑year veterinary technology program. Registered or eligible for registration with the Saskatchewan Association of Veterinary Technologist. (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).

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.

Skills: Proved strong technical and critical thinking skills. Effective interpersonal and communication skills, both oral and written. The 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. the ability to make sound decisions based on objective judgment within the framework of hospital policy; proved effective organizational and time management skills, and the ability to perform heavy physical labour with restrain/care of animals and equipment. Radiography and special imaging (MRI, CT, scintigraphy) experience is considered an asset.

Department: Veterinary Medical Centre
Status: Term 4 months with the possibility of extension or becoming permanent
Employment Group: CUPE 1975
Shift: Hours will vary, including days, evenings, nights, weekends and STAT holidays. Hours are subject to change.
Full Time Equivalent (FTE): 1.0
Salary: The salary range, based on 1.0 FTE, is $30.25 - 38.38 per hour. The starting salary will be commensurate with education and experience.
Salary Family (if applicable): Applied Scientific Services
Salary Phase/Band: Phase 5
Posted Date: 8/26/2026
Closing Date: 9/29/2026 at 6:00 pm CST
Number of Openings: 1
Work Location: On Campus

The successful applicant will be required to provide the following current verification(s) where 'Yes' is indicated below. Further information is available at: https://careers.usask.ca/tips-for-applying.php

Criminal Record Check: Yes
Driver's License and Abstract Check: Not Applicable
Education/Credential Verification: Yes
Vulnerable Sector Check: Not Applicable

The University of Saskatchewan aspires to be what the world needs and embraces equity, diversity and inclusion as foundational to excellence and innovation. We actively seek to create a welcoming environment where all individuals feel empowered to thrive, contribute, and grow. Applications from equity‑deserving groups are encouraged as part of our ongoing efforts to reflect the diversity of the communities we serve: EDI Framework for Action.
We continue to grow our partnerships with Indigenous communities across the province, nationally, and internationally and value the unique perspective that Indigenous employees provide to strengthen these relationships. Verification of Indigenous Membership/Citizenship at the University of Saskatchewan is led and determined by the deybwewin | taapwaywin | tapwewin: Indigenous Truth policy and the Standing Committee in accordance with the processes developed to enact the policy. Successful candidates that assert Indigenous membership/citizenship will be asked to complete the verification process of Indigenous membership/citizenship with documentation.
The University of Saskatchewan provides an accessible and inclusive workplace. Should you require support through any stage of the recruitment process, please contact us for assistance.