Job Description

Job Description

Job Description

Description

At Newburgh Veterinary Hospital , we pride ourselves on delivering exceptional veterinary care to our diverse clientele, providing comprehensive medical, surgical, and emergency services to pets of all shapes and sizes. Located in the heart of Newburgh, NY, our practice is dedicated to ensuring the well-being of all animals, from traditional pets to exotic species. We are a progressive and fast-growing clinic that has earned a strong reputation for excellence in the care of exotic animals, including reptiles, birds, small mammals, and amphibians. Our team of compassionate professionals is committed to delivering outstanding medical care, and we are currently looking for an experienced Exotic Veterinary Technician to join our team.

We are seeking an experienced Exotic Veterinary Technician who has a strong background in the care, treatment, and husbandry of exotic species. This position is ideal for a highly skilled veterinary technician with a passion for exotic animal care and a deep understanding of their unique medical needs.

As a key member of our veterinary team, you will assist in providing comprehensive care for a variety of exotic animals, including birds, reptiles, small mammals, and amphibians. You will work alongside our veterinarians to perform routine and emergency procedures, manage anesthesia, administer treatments, and assist with diagnostic procedures, all while ensuring the safety and comfort of our patients.

This is not an entry-level position and requires prior veterinary technician experience, with a specialized focus on exotics. The ideal candidate will have hands-on experience with exotic animal husbandry, medical procedures, anesthesia monitoring, venipuncture, diagnostic imaging, and surgical assistance.

Key Responsibilities

Exotic Animal Care & Husbandry:

• Daily Patient Care: Assist with the care and management of exotic patients, ensuring that they are comfortable, properly housed, and monitored for any signs of illness or distress. Provide enrichment activities, nutrition, and proper habitat management tailored to the species' needs.
• Exotic Species Knowledge: Demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of the unique biology and husbandry needs of exotic animals, including reptiles, birds, small mammals (ferrets, guinea pigs, rabbits, etc.), and amphibians.
• Species-Specific Treatments: Administer species-specific treatments and medications, ensuring proper dosage and form. Assist with tube feedings, oral medications, subcutaneous and intramuscular injections, and topical treatments.
• Enrichment & Welfare: Collaborate with the veterinary team to implement enrichment strategies that foster the emotional and psychological well-being of exotic species, ensuring a high standard of welfare.

Anesthesia & Surgical Assistance:

• Anesthesia Monitoring: Prepare and monitor exotic animals under anesthesia during medical procedures and surgeries. Ensure appropriate anesthetic protocols tailored to the species, and continuously monitor vitals, oxygen levels, and heart rate throughout procedures.
• Surgical Assistance: Assist the veterinarian in all aspects of surgery, including patient prep, sterile technique, and post-operative care. Support in soft tissue, orthopedic, and emergency surgeries involving exotic species.
• Recovery Monitoring: Oversee the recovery process for exotic animals post-surgery or anesthesia, ensuring the animal's comfort and safety. Administer pain management and adjust care protocols as necessary.

Diagnostic Support & Laboratory Work:

• Venipuncture & Blood Draws: Perform venipuncture on exotic animals for laboratory analysis, ensuring high-quality sample collection with minimal stress to the animal.
• Diagnostics: Assist with the collection and processing of diagnostic samples, including blood, fecal, urine, and skin tests. Operate and assist in diagnostic imaging, such as radiology and ultrasound, ensuring proper positioning of exotic species for imaging.
• Laboratory Analysis: Conduct in-house laboratory tests, including blood smears, urinalysis, cytology, and parasitology. Assist with the interpretation of results and ensure timely delivery to the attending veterinarian.

Client Communication & Education:

• Client Interaction: Engage with pet owners regarding the care, treatment plans, and long-term management of their exotic pets. Provide thorough explanations of procedures and home care instructions, ensuring owners understand species-specific needs.
• Client Education: Educate clients on best practices for exotic animal husbandry, nutrition, behavior, and preventive care. Assist with species-specific behavior modification techniques when applicable.
• Emergency Care: Provide clear and calm communication with clients during emergency cases, offering support and guidance while assisting the veterinarian in emergency care and stabilization of exotic animals.

Team Collaboration & Support:

• Collaboration: Work closely with the veterinary team to coordinate the care of exotic animals. Ensure accurate medical records, and contribute to case discussions, ensuring continuity of care.
• Training & Mentoring: Mentor and train junior technicians or staff members on exotic animal care techniques, protocols, and best practices. Participate in continuing education and in-house training sessions.
• Equipment Maintenance: Ensure that all exotic animal care equipment, including anesthesia machines, surgical tools, and diagnostic equipment, are properly maintained and sanitized. Report any issues or malfunctions promptly.

Skills, Knowledge & Expertise to be Successful

• Veterinary Technician Certification (CVT/LVT/RVT) Preferred: Ideal candidate would be a certified veterinary technician (or equivalent), with a valid credential in the state of New York.
• Prior Veterinary Experience Required: Minimum of 2-3 years of veterinary technician experience in a clinical setting. Experience with exotic animals is essential.
• Exotic Animal Experience: Hands-on experience in the care and treatment of exotic animals, including reptiles, birds, and small mammals. Experience in anesthesia, venipuncture, and surgical assistance for exotic species is highly preferred.
• Anesthesia & Monitoring Skills: Proficient in the preparation, administration, and monitoring of anesthesia for a variety of exotic species. Experience with invasive monitoring techniques, including blood pressure, ECG, and pulse oximetry.
• Clinical Skills: Strong venipuncture and blood collection skills, proficiency in diagnostic sample collection, and experience performing or assisting with imaging (radiographs, ultrasound).
• Strong Communication Skills: Ability to communicate clearly and effectively with both clients and the veterinary team. Ability to educate and provide guidance on exotic animal care, husbandry, and medical treatment.
• Attention to Detail: Exceptional organizational skills, accuracy in medical records, and the ability to multitask efficiently in a busy, fast-paced environment.
• Emergency Care Expertise: Ability to provide high-quality, fast-paced care in emergency situations, especially those involving exotic species.
• Compassionate Patient Care: A deep commitment to the welfare and comfort of exotic animals, with a strong emphasis on minimizing stress and discomfort during treatment.

Why Join Us?

State-of-the-Art Facility: Join a growing hospital with modern equipment and a strong focus on providing exceptional care to both traditional and exotic pets.

Collaborative Team Environment: Be part of a skilled and compassionate team, where everyone’s input is valued. Work with veterinarians and technicians who specialize in exotic animal care.

Professional Growth & Education: We offer ample opportunities for continuing education, certification programs, and training in exotic animal care. We encourage our team members to stay current with the latest advancements in veterinary medicine.

Competitive Compensation & Benefits: Competitive salary based on experience, along with a comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance, retirement plans, paid time off, and professional development support.

Positive Work Culture: A supportive, friendly, and inclusive workplace where every team member is encouraged to grow and contribute to the hospital’s mission of excellent animal care.

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