Technician – Anesthesia, Veterinary Medical Centre

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

Job summary

The University of Saskatchewan is seeking an enthusiastic Anesthesiology Technician for its Veterinary Medical Centre. The ideal candidate will have experience with anesthesia in both large and small animals, along with strong technical and interpersonal skills. This role offers a supportive work environment, competitive pay, and opportunities for ongoing education and advancement. Join us in contributing to high-quality care for animals at our teaching hospital!

Benefits

Access to advanced technologies and equipment

Supportive work environment

Job advancement opportunities

Excellent health benefits

Qualifications

• Registered or eligible for registration with SAVT.
• Experience with anesthesiology for large and small animals.
• Demonstrated ability to function under pressure.

Responsibilities

• Induction, maintenance, and recovery of clinical and research animals.
• Assist with supervision of veterinary students.
• Maintain facilities and equipment.

Skills

Technical skills in anesthesiology

Interpersonal skills

Communication skills

Organizational skills

Education

Graduate of a recognized two-year veterinary technology program

Job description

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 center 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; a progressive supportive work environment; opportunities for job advancement and continuing education; team approach to patient care and client services; and excellent health benefits!

Description

Primary Purpose: As an Anesthesiology Technician, you will work as a member of a technical team responsible for planning and initiating patient care in the anesthesia section for both the Large and Small Animal Clinics.

Nature of Work: Reporting to the Manager Health Services, this position works under pressure and stressful situations. The work involves heavy lifting and assisting in moving and positioning both patients and equipment. Subject to unpredictability of working with animals, both large and small, as animal handling and manipulation is a constant part of the position. This position works in an animal facility with large animals (equine, bovine, porcine, caprine, ovine, and some exotics i.e. llamas, alpacas, etc.) and small animals (canine, feline, avian, and some exotics) which exposes employees to animal dander, waste, and unpredictability. Subject to some unpleasant odors, dress code and traffic pattern restrictions. The work is fast paced with frequent multiple demands and interruptions. During periods of low activity or high demand this individual may be assigned to other areas within the Veterinary Medical Centre. Shift premiums where applicable. Hours of work are subject to change and may require a shift rotation including a late shift.

Typical Duties/Accountabilities: Induction, maintenance, and recovery of both clinical and research animals as instructed by licensed veterinarians; assists with supervision and instruction of undergraduate veterinary, animal health technician and veterinary technology students; maintains facilities, equipment, and supplies

Qualifications

Education: Graduate of a recognized two-year veterinary technology program; registered or eligible for registration with Saskatchewan Association of Veterinary Technologists (SAVT); and a member or eligible for membership with the Saskatchewan Veterinary Medical Association (SVMA). Preference will be given to candidates who are certified with the Academy of Veterinary Technician Anesthetists (AVTA).

Experience: At least three years of direct experience with anesthesia of large animals, small animals, and exotics in a mixed practice or other veterinary college. Demonstrated experience with directing and evaluating the work of others.

Skills: Demonstrated proficient technical skills in the fields mentioned above; sound knowledge of anesthesiology; demonstrated ability to prioritize and work independently in a variety of routine and critical situations; effective organizational, interpersonal, and communication skills, both written and verbal; ability to adapt to and work in a dynamic work environment maintaining a professional and positive demeanor; and the ability to function under pressure and in stressful situations.

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 college (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.

Department: Veterinary Medical Centre

Status: Term 1 year with the possibility of extension or becoming permanent

Employment Group: CUPE 1975

Shift: Hours of work may vary and are expected to be between Monday to Friday falling within the core hospital hours of 7am- 7pm. You will work 40 hours per week in order to bank time to earn one day off at the end of every four week period.

Full Time Equivalent (FTE): 1.0

Salary: The salary range, based on 1.0 FTE, is $28.72 - 37.60 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: 4/17/2025

Closing Date: 6/17/2025 at 6:00 pm CST

Number of Openings: 1

Work Location: On Site

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: Not Applicable

Vulnerable Sector Check: Not Applicable

The University is committed to employment equity, diversity, and inclusion, and are proud to support career opportunities for Indigenous peoples to reflect the community we serve. We are dedicated to recruiting individuals who will enrich our work and learning environments. All qualified candidates are encouraged to apply; however, in accordance with Canadian immigration requirements, Canadian citizens and permanent residents will be given priority. We are committed to providing accommodations to those with a disability or medical necessity. If you require an accommodation to participate in the recruitment process, please notify us and we will work together on the accommodation request. 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 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’s main campus is situated on Treaty 6 Territory and the Homeland of the Métis. We pay our respects to the First Nations and Métis ancestors of this place and reaffirm our relationship with one another. Together, we are uplifting Indigenization to a place of prominence at the University of Saskatchewan.