Technician, Oncology, Veterinary Medical Centre

Primary Purpose: To provide technical assistance to the Oncology Service of the Veterinary Medical Centre by ensuring that an optimum level of patient care is maintained for animals undergoing oncology treatments as well as coordination of all aspects of the referral service and will function as a float throughout other areas of the hospital when oncology service needs are down. Nature of Work: Reporting to the Manager, Health Services and Client Experience, responsible in providing assistance in all technical aspects of the Oncology service. Animal handling and manipulation are a constant part of the position. This person will work in a large hospital environment with animals, which exposes employees to animal dander, waste, and unpredictability. This position requires a substantial amount of lifting, moving, and cleaning of equipment/work area. The person will work in a fast-paced environment with frequent interruptions and varied inputs. Employees are subject to some unpleasant odors, dress code, traffic pattern restrictions and risks associated in working with animals. During periods of low activity or high demand this individual may be assigned to other areas within the Veterinary Medical Centre. The incumbent will deal with cytotoxic chemotherapy, ionizing radiation, products, and procedures of a hazardous nature according to safety regulations. May require preparation of chemotherapy in a biosafety cabinet. Typical Duties/Accountabilities: Involves provision of assistance for diagnostic and therapeutic procedures on animals presented to the Oncology service. Implements orders issued by the oncologists; organizes treatment protocols; administers chemotherapy; induction, maintenance and recovery from sedation of animals undergoing treatment and CT’s as instructed by a licensed veterinarian; handles and restrains animals; maintains health records; is involved in all aspects of patient care, including submissions for lab work, daily management and documentation of hospitalized patients; maintains communication between clients and referring veterinarian; and assists with the supervision of undergraduate veterinary and veterinary technology program students. During periods of low activity or high demand this individual may be assigned to other areas within the Veterinary Medical Centre. Education: Graduate of a recognized two-year veterinary technology program. Must be registered or eligible for registration with Saskatchewan Association of Veterinary Technologists (SAVT). Experience: At least three years of full-time experience as a technician in a general practice or in a veterinary referral center. Demonstrated experience with directing and evaluating the work of others. While applicants who meet the qualifications of a CUPE 1975 Phase 5 listed above will be given priority, we may also consider applicants who are not fully qualified but show an interest in learning and developing their skills. Successful applicants who do not meet our full qualifications may be offered the position at a lower classification (CUPE 1975 Phase 4 or CUPE 1975 Phase 3) and therefore a lower pay rate. We will provide training, support, and an opportunity to move to the fully qualified level. Skills: Demonstrated proficient veterinary technician skills with a sound knowledge of oncology procedures for small animals; proficient in patient care/case management; excellent interpersonal and communication skills (both oral and written); demonstrated initiative with the ability to make independent decisions based on objective judgment with the framework of hospital policy ; ability to adapt to and work in a dynamic work environment maintaining a professional and positive demeanor; ability to effectively work independently as well as part of a team; ability to evaluate the work of others; demonstrated effective organizational and time management skills A CUPE 1975 Phase 4 RVT will be under the supervision of a senior RVT, possess the education qualifications listed above, have 2 – 3 years direct experience in a veterinary practice or other veterinary college, and be able to competently perform basic and introductory duties independently. The salary range is CAD $24.74 - $31.37 per hour. A CUPE 1975 Phase 3 RVT will be under the direct supervision of a senior RVT, possess the education qualifications listed above, have less than 2 years direct experience in a veterinary practice or other veterinary college (new grads welcome!), and be able to perform basic skills and duties that were achieved as a result of graduating from a recognized Veterinary Technology Program. The salary range is CAD $22.74-$27.69 per hour. This position is in scope of CUPE 1975