Veterinary Technician

Shelter Veterinary Center Veterinary Technician (LVT)

Full-Time or Part-Time

CNY SPCA - Syracuse, NY

The CNY SPCA is seeking an experienced and compassionate Veterinary Technician to join our growing veterinary team. Founded in 1891, the mission of the CNY SPCA is to provide humane care, public safety, and responsible animal services through sheltering, adoption, education, and enforcement of animal welfare laws.

The Veterinary Technician will work under the supervision of the Vet Center Veterinarian to help ensure the medical and welfare needs of shelter animals - and eventually public patients - are met. This position provides direct support to veterinarians and plays a vital role in patient care, surgery, communication, and shelter operations.

Key Responsibilities

Medical Care

• Assist veterinarians with examinations, surgeries, and medical procedures
• Administer medications, vaccinations, and treatments as prescribed
• Perform diagnostic testing including bloodwork, radiographs, and laboratory sample preparation
• Monitor animal health and behavior and report changes or concerns to the veterinarian
• Ability to safely and compassionately handle fearful, anxious, or fractious animals using low-stress and Fear Free handling techniques
• Change bandages, bedding, and kennel materials as needed

Surgical Assistance

• Prepare animals and surgical equipment for procedures
• Perform anesthesia protocols including pre-medication, induction, monitoring, and post-operative recovery
• Ensure surgical instruments and treatment areas are properly cleaned and sterilized

Record Keeping & Inventory

• Maintain accurate and up-to-date medical records for shelter animals
• Document treatments, procedures, and observations in accordance with shelter policies
• Assist in maintaining inventory and controlled substance logs

Client & Shelter Support

• Educate adopters and foster caregivers on proper animal care and medical needs
• Provide post-operative care instructions and medication administration guidance
• Perform follow-up calls as needed
• Assist with intake and medical evaluation of incoming shelter animals
• Participate in community outreach and educational programs
• Perform other duties as assigned

Qualifications & Requirements

• Current New York State Veterinary Technician License preferred, but non-licensed experienced technicians will be considered
• Experience working as a veterinary technician in a veterinary practice or shelter setting preferred
• Spay/neuter experience preferred
• Ability to safely and compassionately handle fearful or fractious animals
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, demanding environment
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Collaborative and team-oriented mindset
• Professional, courteous, and compassionate demeanor with the public, coworkers, and volunteers
• Able to lift up to 40 pounds and work standing for 10 or more hours
• Commitment to the mission, vision, and values of the CNY SPCA

Pay range: $23-27/hour based on experience.