Veterinary Oncology Technician

AAVMP; Northern (KY); Hybrid; USD 42,000 - 64,000; Full time

Job summary

NorthStar VETS is seeking an Oncology Veterinary Technician to join a fast-paced emergency and specialty environment. You will assist with oncology exams, chemotherapy preparation and administration, anesthesia support, and client education.

Key duties include monitoring chemotherapy patients, maintaining medical records, and collaborating with oncologists, nursing staff, and leadership to ensure safe, high-quality care.

Qualifications

• Oncology experience in a veterinary setting.
• Experience with chemotherapy protocols and administration.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to follow complex instructions.
• Excellent communication and teamwork skills.
• Ability to stay calm in a fast-paced environment.

Responsibilities

• Assist veterinarians with oncology exams, diagnostics and treatment plans.
• Safely prepare, handle, administer, and dispose of chemotherapeutic agents per protocols and safety standards.
• Monitor patients on chemotherapy and report adverse reactions promptly.
• Provide supportive oncology care including pain management, nutrition, catheter care and QoL monitoring.
• Calculate drug dosages and infusion rates as directed.
• Maintain accurate medical records in the EMR.

Skills

Oncology experience

Chemotherapy administration

Anesthesia experience

Attention to detail

Communication skills

Teamwork

High-acuity care

Education

Veterinary Technician certification

Tools

EMR system

Anesthesia monitoring equipment

Job description

Position Summary

The Oncology Veterinary Technician at NorthStar VETS plays a critical role in providing compassionate, high-quality care to oncology patients within a fast-paced emergency and specialty environment. This position requires strong technical skills, attention to detail, emotional intelligence, and comfort working with complex cases, including chemotherapy administration and supportive oncology care. Experience with anesthesia is highly valued and considered a strong asset for this role.

The Oncology Technician collaborates closely with oncologists, specialty veterinarians, nursing leadership, and support teams to ensure safe, efficient, and empathetic care for patients and clients.

Core Responsibilities

Oncology & Patient Care

• Assist veterinarians with oncology examinations, diagnostics, and treatment plans
• Safely prepare, handle, administer, and dispose of chemotherapeutic agents in compliance with hospital protocols, OSHA guidelines, and safety standards
• Monitor patients receiving chemotherapy for adverse reactions and promptly report concerns to the medical team
• Provide supportive care for oncology patients, including pain management, nutritional support, catheter care, and monitoring of quality-of-life indicators
• Accurately calculate drug dosages and infusion rates as directed by the veterinarian
• Maintain detailed and accurate medical records in the hospital EMR

Chemotherapy & Safety Protocols

• Demonstrate thorough knowledge of chemotherapy protocols, PPE requirements, spill response, and hazardous drug handling
• Educate and support clients regarding chemotherapy procedures, at-home precautions, and post-treatment monitoring
• Participate in maintaining chemotherapy logs, inventory, and compliance documentation

Anesthesia (Strong Plus)

• Assist with anesthetic induction, monitoring, and recovery for oncology patients undergoing diagnostic or surgical procedures
• Monitor vital signs, recognize anesthetic complications, and communicate changes promptly
• Maintain anesthesia equipment and ensure proper setup and safety checks

Client Communication

• Provide clear, compassionate education to clients regarding treatment plans, chemotherapy expectations, and aftercare
• Support clients through emotionally challenging situations with professionalism and empathy
• Reinforce NorthStar VETS’ commitment to transparency, trust, and client-centered care

Team Collaboration & Workflow

• Work collaboratively with emergency, specialty, and nursing teams to ensure continuity of care
• Assist with patient triage and workflow prioritization as needed
• Serve as a resource and mentor to other technicians or assistants when appropriate

Compliance, Safety & Professional Standards

• Adhere to all hospital policies, protocols, and safety standards
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment
• Participate in ongoing training, continuing education, and department initiatives
• Uphold NorthStar VETS’ core values and culture expectations at all times

Qualifications

Required

• Veterinary Technician or Veterinary Assistant experience in a specialty or emergency setting focused in Oncology
• Demonstrated comfort with chemotherapy protocols and administration
• Strong attention to detail and ability to follow complex medical instructions
• Excellent communication and teamwork skills
• Ability to remain calm and effective in a high-acuity, fast-paced environment

Preferred

• Credentialed Veterinary Technician (RVT/LVT/CVT)
• Previous oncology experience in a veterinary specialty hospital
• Anesthesia monitoring and recovery experience
• Familiarity with OSHA standards and hazardous drug handling
• Experience with electronic medical records

Physical Requirements

• Ability to lift and restrain patients weighing up to 50 lbs (with assistance as needed)
• Ability to stand, walk, and perform technical tasks for extended periods
• Manual dexterity to safely handle needles, catheters, and medical equipment