Veterinary Lead Surgery/Anesthesia Technician

PetVet Care Centers' New England Veterinary Center & Cancer Center is currently seeking a Veterinary Lead Surgery/ Anesthesia Technician to join their team!

Job Description

A lead surgery veterinary technician is responsible for both hands-on surgical support and the oversight of a hospital's surgical operations. This leadership role combines advanced clinical skills with administrative duties to ensure the efficiency and safety of the entire surgical department.

Summary of Responsibilities:

• Surgical leadership and oversight: Supervise the surgical team, delegate daily tasks, and manage the overall workflow of the surgical suite.
• Advanced surgical assistance: Perform key technical tasks, such as anesthesia induction and monitoring, surgical preparation, and post-operative patient care.
• Training and mentoring: Educate junior technicians and assistants on surgical procedures, equipment, and best practices.
• Inventory and equipment management: Oversee the tracking, stocking, and maintenance of surgical supplies, medications, and equipment.
• Record keeping and protocol: Ensure accurate medical records for surgical patients and assist in developing and maintaining surgical protocols.

Core Duties

Leadership and Management

• Coordinate and delegate responsibilities to all surgical and technical staff during shifts.
• Act as a liaison between veterinarians, technicians, and hospital management.
• Foster a positive and collaborative team environment.

Patient Care

• Pre-operative care: Assess patients, perform blood work, place IV catheters, and perform other procedures to prepare for surgery.
• Anesthesia management: Induce, monitor, and maintain anesthesia throughout the surgical procedure.
• Intra-operative support: Assist the veterinarian during surgery by handling and passing instruments and maintaining the sterile field.
• Post-operative recovery: Provide nursing care to recover anesthetized patients and administer medications as directed.
• Client communication: Communicate with owners regarding the surgical procedure, recovery protocols, and post-operative care instructions.

Surgical Suite Maintenance

• Sterilize surgical instruments and equipment and prepare surgical packs.
• Ensure the operating room is clean, organized, and properly stocked for daily procedures.
• Track and manage the inventory of all surgical supplies, controlled substances, and medications.
• Perform and document daily and weekly maintenance checks on all surgical and anesthesia equipment.

Required Skills and Qualifications

Education and experience

• Completion of an AVMA-accredited Veterinary Technology program, with an Associate's or Bachelor's degree
• State licensure or certification as a veterinary technician (LVT, CVT, or RVT) is desired
• Significant experience (typically 3+ years) in a veterinary surgical setting, with additional leadership or supervisory experience preferred
• A Veterinary Technician Specialist (VTS) certification in surgery or anesthesia is an advanced credential that requires additional experience and an examination

Technical Skills

• Expertise in administering and monitoring anesthesia in a variety of patients.
• Advanced knowledge of surgical instruments and procedures.
• Proficiency in patient triage, catheter placement, venipuncture, and radiology.
• Competency with veterinary electronic medical record (EMR) systems.

Soft Skills

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills for leading staff and communicating with clients.
• Strong organizational skills and exceptional attention to detail.
• The ability to remain calm and work efficiently in a high-stress, fast-paced environment.
• Compassion and a deep commitment to animal welfare.

What We Offer
We care deeply about supporting our team members professionally and personally. Benefits include:

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• Paid Parental Leave (birth, adoption, foster)
• 401(k) with discretionary contribution
• Team Member Pet Discounts
• Emotional wellbeing support including Calm app access and 24/7 EAP
• CE stipends and career development resources
• Grant Circle a relief fund for team members facing personal hardship
• Local hospital culture backed by national resources

Pay Range$24$28 USD

At PetVet Care Centers, were committed to a Culture of Care for pets, for the people who love them, and for the team members who make it all possible. With more than 420 hospitals across the and a team of over 11,000 dedicated professionals, including 1700+ veterinarians, we offer a unique blend of local leadership and national support that helps our hospitals thrive.

Our model is built on partnership, collaboration, and local medical autonomy, empowering each hospital to deliver high-quality care while benefiting from shared resources and a strong professional community. Whether youre providing care in a hospital or supporting operations behind the scenes, PetVet is a place where you can grow your career, stay connected to your purpose, and make a meaningful impact.

You care for pets. We care for you.

PetVet is an equal opportunity employer. All employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, age, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, marital status, pregnancy, religion, citizenship, national origin/ancestry, physical/mental disabilities, military status or any other basis prohibited by law. EOE, M/F/D/V

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