Technician (RVT), Large Animal

University of Saskatchewan; Saskatoon; On-site; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is looking for a dedicated Technician (RVT) to join their animal health team. This role involves providing exceptional care to large animals and assisting in various procedures at a leading veterinary teaching hospital. You will thrive in a dynamic environment, working closely with clinicians and students while utilizing advanced technologies. This position offers a unique opportunity to contribute to animal health, engage in continuous learning, and work alongside passionate professionals. If you have a strong background in veterinary technology and a love for large animals, this is the perfect opportunity for you!

Benefits

Access to Advanced Technologies

Opportunities for Job Advancement

Continuing Education

Excellent Health Benefits

Qualifications

• Graduate of a recognized veterinary technology program.
• Minimum of three years of experience in a hospital setting.

Responsibilities

• Assist with diagnostic and therapeutic procedures on large animals.
• Provide technical assistance to interns and students.

Skills

Technical Skills

Critical Thinking

Interpersonal Skills

Communication Skills

Animal Handling

Organizational Skills

Time Management

Radiography Experience

Education

Two-Year Veterinary Technology Program

Certification with AEVN or AIMVT

Job description

Technician (RVT), Large Animal

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

Primary Purpose: The primary purpose of this position is 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 Operations, the technician provides compassionate, quality patient care consistent with the general philosophy and objectives of the VMC. Animal handling and manipulations are a constant part of the position. This position works in an animal facility housing large animals which exposes the employee to animal dander, waste, feed, and unpredictability. It requires a substantial amount of lifting, moving, kneeling, jogging, and cleaning of equipment/workspaces. Subject to some unpleasant odours, dress code, and traffic pattern restrictions. Note: This position is extremely physical in nature and requires the ability to run alongside of 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 climates and terrains.

Typical Duties/Accountabilities: Responsibilities include: 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; and provides technical assistance to interns, residents and undergraduates in daily duties. The technician is responsible for the maintenance of equipment/supplies, handling and restraining of animals, sedation, assisting with surgical, medical and radiology procedures, maintenance of medical records, implementation of orders issued by clinicians, and maintenance of the facility. Incumbent will orient and remain current with respect to workplace safety and security procedures/policies. When caseload fluctuates within the Large Animal Clinic, this position is expected to assist within the VMC as an RVT with other duties as assigned. During periods of low activity or high demand, this individual may be assigned to other areas within the Veterinary Medical Centre.

The incumbent will competently perform basic and introductory duties independently.

Technicians at this level will perform advanced skills/duties of all core services including LA therio, medicine, surgery, field service, equine, bovine, and LA medical imaging as defined by the VMC. Skills and duties and required safety at this level are above average in complexity and require a sound knowledge of Large Animal services. The incumbent can adapt their skill set to problem-solve situations, which are often time-sensitive, and troubleshoot challenging or unique situations through discussions with senior technicians and other qualified personnel. The incumbent will orient and remain current with respect to workplace safety and security procedures/policies.

Qualifications

Education: A graduate of a recognized two-year veterinary technology program; and registered or eligible for registration with the Saskatchewan Association of Veterinary Technologists (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). Must hold and maintain a valid province of Saskatchewan driver’s license with good standing.

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. Demonstrated experience with directing and evaluating the work of others.

Skills: Demonstrated strong technical and critical thinking skills in the various fields mentioned above, effective interpersonal and communication skills, both oral and written; 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 and deal with them; ability to make sound decisions based on objective judgment within the framework of hospital policy; demonstrated effective organizational and time management skills; and ability to perform heavy physical labour with restraint/care of animals and equipment. Radiography and special imaging (MRI, CT, scintigraphy) experience will be considered an asset.

Department: Veterinary Medical Centre
Status: 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 $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: 4/3/2025
Closing Date: 4/24/2025 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