Veterinary Technician - Anesthesia

NVA General Practice; Des Moines (IA); On-site; USD 34,000 - 42,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Employee discounts

Health, dental, and vision insurance

401 K with company match

Paid time off

Continuing education benefits

Job summary

A reputable veterinary clinic in Des Moines, Iowa is seeking an entry-level Veterinary Technician to assist veterinarians in providing high-quality animal care. Responsibilities include administering medications, performing dental cleanings, and maintaining treatment areas. The position offers competitive full-time benefits including health insurance, paid time off, and continuing education support.

Qualifications

• Assist veterinarians and educate clients on animal care.
• Perform routine dental cleanings under supervision.
• Administer anesthetic and monitor responses.

Responsibilities

• Assist veterinarians in delivering care and educating clients.
• Provide support during animal examinations.
• Administer medications and perform dental cleanings.
• Maintain clean treatment areas and equipment.

Skills

Animal restraint

Veterinary assistance

Medication administration

Dental procedures

Patient monitoring

Education

Veterinary Technician certification

Tools

Digital radiology

Anesthetic monitors

Job description

About Starch Pet Hospital & University West Pet Clinic

Starch Pet Hospital and University West Pet Clinic are two well‑established full‑service veterinary hospitals in the Des Moines metro area. Starch Pet Hospital was founded in the late 1940’s and moved to a new 4,500‑sq. ft. building in 1996. University West opened its 4,500‑sq. ft. facility in 1976, with extensive remodels completed in 2025.

Both hospitals are equipped with:

• 8 exam rooms, dedicated dental and surgery suites, and large treatment areas with grooming stations
• In‑house laboratory with IDEXX chemistry, blood analyzers, and a Sedivue
• Digital radiology on the Image Value DR30 platform (images in 5 seconds)
• Ultrasound and full dental services (exams, radiographs, cleaning, polishing, and extractions)
• Midmark VetPro 1000 dental suite and DC digital radiograph system
• Cardell Touch anesthetic monitors
• In‑house pharmacy and multiple compounding partners
• Hours: Monday‑Friday 7:30 am–6:00 pm and Saturday 8:00 am–12:00 pm
• Full‑time schedule: 4 days per week with a Saturday rotation (approximately one Saturday per month)

Job Responsibilities

• Assist veterinarians in delivering quality care and educating clients
• Provide restraint and support during animal examinations
• Prepare and administer medications, vaccines, serums, and treatments as prescribed
• Perform routine dental cleanings under veterinary direction
• Administer anesthetic and monitor anesthetic responses to adjust dosages
• Obtain and position radiographs with proper technique
• Gather health history, maintain medical charts, and obtain client information
• Conduct laboratory tests (blood, urine, feces) to aid diagnosis and treatment
• Administer emergency first aid, including resuscitation and life‑saving procedures
• Collect, prepare, and label samples for laboratory testing, culture, or microscopic exam
• Provide correct equipment and instruments to veterinarians as needed
• Fill prescriptions, measure medications, and label containers
• Prepare animals for surgery (shaving, IV catheter placement, etc.)
• Maintain clean exam and treatment areas
• Collaborate with veterinary staff to ensure efficient patient flow

Full‑Time Benefits

• Employee discounts
• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• Other ancillary benefits
• Uniform reimbursement
• Paid time off
• 401 K with company match
• Continuing education benefits
• Student loan refinancing benefits
• Cell phone plan discounts through Verizon and AT&T
• Veterinary Technician Penn Foster sponsorship program

Position Details

• Seniority Level: Entry‑level
• Employment Type: Full‑time
• Job Function: Health Care Provider
• Industry: Veterinary Services