Registered Veterinary Technologist, VP Research

University of Calgary; Calgary; On-site; CAD 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

Join a vibrant team at a leading research university as a Registered Veterinary Technologist. This role offers a unique opportunity to contribute to the health and welfare of research and teaching animals across various facilities. You will be involved in essential tasks such as sample collection, anesthesia, and medication administration while ensuring compliance with animal welfare standards. The position requires strong analytical skills and the ability to work independently and collaboratively. Be part of an institution that values diversity and innovation, and make a meaningful impact in animal care and research.

Qualifications

• In-depth knowledge of animal health services and technical procedures required.
• Registration with the Alberta Veterinary Medical Association is necessary.

Responsibilities

• Provides basic animal healthcare and technical support under supervision.
• Monitors and assesses general animal health and reports issues.

Skills

Animal Health Services

Analytical Skills

Attention to Detail

Record-Keeping

Communication Skills

Teamwork

Education

Animal Health Technology Diploma

Tools

IRISS

Job description

Description

Animal Care Services in the Office of VP Research is currently seeking a Full-time Limited Term Registered Veterinary Technologist for approximately 12 months.

Reporting to the Associate University Veterinarian or the Senior Manager, Animal Care Committee Coordinator, the Registered Veterinary Technologist (RVT) is broadly involved in the various aspects of health care and welfare of research and teaching animals at any designated animal facility of the University of Calgary. This may include the Life & Environmental Sciences Animal Resources Centre, the Health Sciences Animal Resources Centre, the Veterinary Sciences Research Station and associated Clinical Skills Building, the WA Ranches at the University of Calgary or any other designated locations.

Weekend shift work may be required and on-call coverage as well as vacation coverage of other technologists within UCARE is required. Ability to travel to the various locations across university campuses is required. The position may be physically demanding, including heavy lifting and long periods of standing. Direct work with a wide range of animal species, including livestock and other large animal species, along with the associated hazards may be involved. Work must be performed in compliance with the University Animal Welfare Committee and Canadian Council on Animal Care (CCAC) standards.

Summary of Key Responsibilities (job functions include but are not limited to):

• Under the direction of the Assistant University Veterinarian or Animal Care Committee Coordinator, provides basic animal healthcare and technical support, including sample collection procedures, bandage care, surgical support, anesthesia, medication administration, blood sampling, and some administration and management of controlled drugs.
• Receives and sets-up incoming research and teaching animals.
• Monitors and assesses general animal health and reports issues to the Veterinarian.
• Assists in the preparation and clean-up of the IAUTP sessions.
• Adheres to Health Canada guidelines for controlled substances and prescription medications.
• Maintains appropriate medical records systems.
• Uses IRISS to access information about Animal Care Committee protocol activities.
• Follows safety guidelines to ensure a safe work environment and proper operation of equipment.
• Works with chemicals and biohazards safely using protective gear.
• Ensures familiarity with ordering processes and inventory management for animal healthcare supplies.
• Ensures compliance with animal care, facility, and good laboratory standards.
• Interacts respectfully with facility users when providing assistance.
• Provides consistent technical support and animal care services to users of all facilities.
• Adheres to University policies regarding confidentiality and safety regulations.
• Coordinates animal healthcare and husbandry with the Animal Facility Manager and Animal Husbandry Care Attendants as required.
• Maintains/develops skills and meets provincial licensure requirements through continuing education.
• Performs other related duties as required.

Qualifications / Requirements:

• Requires in-depth knowledge of the theory, complex technical procedures, and skills necessary to provide animal health services.
• A valid Animal Health Technology Diploma is required, along with registration (or eligibility for registration) with the Alberta Veterinary Medical Association (ABVMA).
• Past research and teaching animal experience within a relevant scientific/institutional facility is considered an asset.
• Relevant experience in a research/scientific/institutional setting can include Veterinary Clinics or University/Research Animal Care Facilities.
• Previous animal health experience in non-research facilities may be considered in the absence of research experience.
• Requires strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and accurate record-keeping.
• A thorough knowledge of University Animal Welfare Committee and CCAC guidelines is necessary.
• Understanding of sanitation, disinfection, and sterilization principles is essential.
• Strong verbal, written communication, and interpersonal skills are needed.
• Demonstrated teamwork skills and the ability to work independently are required.
• The Registered Veterinary Technologist must not have any known animal-related allergies.

Application Deadline: January 21, 2025

We would like to thank all applicants in advance for submitting their resumes. Please note, only those candidates chosen to continue on through the selection process will be contacted.

This position is part of the AUPE bargaining unit, and falls under the Technical Job Family, Phase 2.

For a listing of all management and staff opportunities at the University of Calgary, view our Management and Staff Careers website.

About the University of Calgary

UCalgary is Canada's entrepreneurial university, located in Canada's most enterprising city. It is a top research university and one of the highest-ranked universities of its age. Founded in 1966, its 36,000 students experience an innovative learning environment. For more information, visit ucalgary.ca.

The University of Calgary has launched an institution-wide Indigenous Strategy committing to creating a vibrant campus that welcomes and supports Indigenous Peoples.

As an equitable and inclusive employer, the University of Calgary recognizes that a diverse staff/faculty enriches the work, learning and research experiences of the entire campus. We strive to recruit individuals who will further enhance our diversity and support their academic and professional success.

We encourage all qualified applicants to apply, however preference will be given to Canadian citizens and permanent residents of Canada.