Veterinary Technician

University of Pittsburgh; Pittsburgh (Allegheny County); On-site; USD 35,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

Join a forward-thinking institution as a Veterinary Technician, where you will play a crucial role in supporting veterinary medical care and research activities. This position involves assisting veterinarians, maintaining animal well-being, and ensuring compliance with regulations. You'll be part of a diverse team committed to excellence in laboratory animal care. If you are passionate about animal health and want to contribute to vital research, this is the perfect opportunity for you. Enjoy a structured work schedule while making a meaningful impact in the field of veterinary medicine.

Qualifications

• Ability to follow written and verbal instructions accurately.
• Maintain accurate records and demonstrate interpersonal skills.

Responsibilities

• Assist veterinarians with medical care and preventive medicine.
• Support daily operations of the animal facility.

Skills

Veterinary Technical Procedures

Communication Skills

Time Management

Interpersonal Skills

Record Keeping

Education

High School Diploma/GED

Job description

On March 10, the University of Pittsburgh announced a strategic hiring freeze. Currently, the University is only accepting applications for positions that are essential or operationally critical. Those positions are listed on our website.

Job Description - Veterinary Technician (25002140)

Veterinary Technician

DLAR-Veterinary Services - Pennsylvania-Pittsburgh - (25002140)

The individual will serve as a Veterinary Technician within the Division of Laboratory and Animal Resources (DLAR). The role involves assisting DLAR veterinarians with veterinary medical care, the preventive medicine program, and performing veterinary technical procedures under veterinarian supervision. The technician will also support daily operations of the animal facility, including husbandry and cage wash activities.

The successful candidate must demonstrate professional and positive communication skills, effective time and process management, and will be required to enroll in the University of Pittsburgh Animal Exposure Surveillance Program and other medical surveillance/immunization programs as per research activities.

Vaccinations and TB testing may be required.

Essential qualifications include the ability to follow written and verbal instructions, maintain accurate records, demonstrate interpersonal skills, work weekends and holidays, stand for extended periods, lift 50 pounds, and pass background checks and clearances.

Job Summary

Provide support to veterinarians, technicians, and researchers in laboratory animal care and research support, including monitoring animal well-being, cleaning, and maintenance of clinical areas. Assist with procedures, surgical and anesthesia support, case triage, medical imaging, medication administration, and maintain documentation to ensure regulatory compliance. Manage supply inventory.

Essential Functions

1. Follow DLAR and institutional guidance documents, including SOPs and animal protocols.
2. Follow written and verbal instructions accurately.
3. Perform veterinary technical procedures with manual dexterity and recognize clinical signs.
4. Wear appropriate PPE as per risk assessment.
5. Handle animals and clean bedding and cages.
6. Document information accurately in English, including electronic records.
7. Communicate effectively in English via email and other channels.
8. Undergo vaccinations and health assessments as required.
9. Enroll in surveillance and immunization programs as dictated by research needs.

Physical Effort

1. Stand for long periods.
2. Lift and move objects up to 50 pounds and operate equipment.
3. Perform repetitive motions involving pushing, pulling, reaching, and bending.
4. Restrain laboratory animals of various sizes.
5. Navigate around animal facilities and equipment.

We are committed to diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility, fostering an environment where individuals can discover, belong, contribute, and grow.

The University is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer, valuing diversity and human dignity.

Additional Details

• Full-time, regular assignment.
• Job classification: Staff.Veterinary Technician.
• Minimum education: High School Diploma/GED.
• No experience required; relevant education and experience considered.
• Required licensure: ALAT + Proficiency Testing Pass.
• Certification by AALAS at the ALAT level or within 24 months for external candidates, plus a valid US driver’s license.
• Work schedule: Monday - Friday, 7:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m., with some weekends and holidays.
• On-campus work arrangement.
• Background checks and child protection clearances required.