Technician, Anesthesia, Veterinary Medical Centre

University of Saskatchewan; Saskatoon; On-site; CAD 34,000 - 43,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Excellent health benefits

Clinical teaching environment

Job summary

University of Saskatchewan’s Veterinary Medical Centre seeks an experienced Anesthesia Technician (RVT) to support anesthesia services for both large and small animals in a busy teaching hospital. The role involves induction, maintenance, and recovery of patients, with opportunities to mentor students and contribute to research projects.

The position operates in a dynamic environment with shift rotations and potential overtime, offering CUPE 1975 employment with a competitive hourly salary range

Qualifications

• 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 given to AVTA-certified candidates.
• At least two years of direct anesthesia experience with large, small, and exotic animals in a mixed practice or veterinary college.
• Demonstrated proficiency in anesthesiology, strong prioritization, communication, and ability to work under pressure in a fast-paced environment.

Responsibilities

• Induction, maintenance, and recovery of both clinical and research animals as instructed by licensed veterinarians.
• Assist with supervision and instruction of undergraduate veterinary, animal health technician and veterinary technology students.
• Maintain facilities, equipment and supplies.

Skills

Anesthesiology

Under pressure

Organization

Communication

Independence

Education

Two-year veterinary technology program

Job description

Technician, Anesthesia, Veterinary Medical Centre

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?

• 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
• 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 two 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 $24.74 - $31.37 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 $22.74 - $27.69 per hour.

This position is in scope of CUPE 1975

Department: Veterinary Medical Centre
Status: Permanent
Employment Group: CUPE 1975
Shift: Hours will vary between 7:00 am – 7:00 pm, Monday – Friday with an EDO every 4 weeks. This may include a shift rotation including a late shift. Hours 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: 8/16/2026
Closing Date: 10/4/2026 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: Not Applicable
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 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, contact us for assistance.