Veterinary Technician II - Radiology

Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine at Tufts provides 24-hour care for pets 365 days of the year. Since 1985 we have offered high quality medical care, consultation, referral, and emergency veterinary services for the care of dogs, cats and exotic pets. The Diagnostic Imaging service provides clinical support to the Foster Hospital for Small Animals and the Hospital for Large Animals. Modalities covered by the diagnostic imaging service include small animal and large animal radiology, small animal ultrasound, fluoroscopy and interventional radiology, CT, MRI and nuclear medicine.

This position qualifies for a $2,000 sign on bonus following successful completion of 6 months of employment for newly hired employees.

The Small Animal Radiology technician provides exceptional support primarily for small animal Radiology and ultrasound with assistance as needed in other modalities. Applicants of all radiology experience levels are encouraged to apply as training is provided. There are also many opportunities for interested candidates to cross train in other advanced imaging modalities as well as large animal imaging. This position requires the ability to multitask and excellent prioritization of cases to manage a varying caseload. The Radiology technician should have exceptional communication skills to be able to teach students, interns, residents and other fellow technicians in Fear-free restraint, positioning, imaging technique and safe sedation practices.

The Veterinary Technician II in Radiology is considered an essential employee within the hospital and once trained the schedule may include providing University and calendar holiday coverage on a rotating basis.

As a Vet Tech II, Radiology you will:

• Obtain radiographs as ordered by clinicians to ensure prompt delivery of high-quality patient care.

• Collaborate with colleagues, co-workers, faculty, house officers and students to effectively manage a high-volume clinical workflow without direct oversight.
• Provide care to patients minimizing fear, anxiety, stress and pain using Fear-Free techniques.
• Safely administer IV sedation to patients and monitor sedated patients throughout procedures
• Work with clinicians to perform specialty examinations.
• Work efficiently, professionally and cohesively either independently or as a part of a team
• Ensure all patient safety and departmental protocols are being followed.
• Effectively communicate with internal customers to provide education, diagnostic imaging options and results.
• Actively seek opportunities to provide support and coverage to all modalities within the section.
• Provide engaging clinical instruction of basic procedures for veterinary students, interns, residents and student technicians.
• Assist in training, orienting, and mentoring new veterinary technicians.
• Cleaning and stocking of supplies and equipment in all areas of diagnostic imaging
• Participate in Departmental and Hospital-wide initiatives as required.
• Maintain IACUC and RECOVER certifications as needed.
• Assist with ongoing research projects.

Basic Requirements:

• Mastery of basic technical skills listed below.
• High School diploma or equivalent and 3 years of experience as a veterinary technician in a fast-paced hospital

OR

• Associate OR bachelor's degree from an AVMA-accredited institution providing training in veterinary technology, veterinary nursing, or veterinary science, and one year experience at an academic or large scale hospital.

OR

• Certified Veterinary Technician in good standing.

• Demonstrated ability to work independently when completing basic tasks and procedural skills, and the ability to conduct more advanced tasks under supervision.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills with the ability to work effectively as a member of a diverse team of clinical and administrative professionals.
• Highly motivated, enthusiastic self-starter with a professional attitude.
• Comprehensive understanding of medical terminology and veterinary pharmacology.
• Knowledge of Diagnostic Imaging in a veterinary setting, particularly small animal radiography.
• A desire to teach. This includes sharing knowledge and expertise with colleagues throughout the Small and Large Animal Hospitals as well as students. Teaching also requires a commitment to ongoing professional development such as participation in Continuing Education and maintenance of credentials and certifications.
• Experience with Microsoft Office and ability to learn electronic medical record systems and other software systems used.

Required technical skills include:

• Safely restrain canine and feline patients.
• Assess the attitude and responsiveness of dogs and cats.
• Obtain vital signs, including temperature, pulse, respiration, and capillary refill time.
• Be able to identify animals in pain or distress
• IV catheterization
• Phlebotomy
• Dosage calculations for medications.
• Monitoring and identifying physiological parameters in patients under sedation and general anesthesia.
• Familiarity with sedatives and tranquilizers.
• Describe steps required and be able to assist in CPR.
• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs. with or without accommodation

Preferred qualifications:

• Demonstrated leadership skills and resourcefulness.
• Certified Veterinary Technician designation preferred.
• Experience with electronic medical records.
• Prior experience in diagnostic imaging including small animal radiography and small animal ultrasound
• Excellent understanding of medical terminology and familiarity with veterinary pharmacology
• Excellent interpersonal skills in relating to co-workers, clinicians, students, staff and clients.
• Interest to learn advanced diagnostic imaging modalities
• Fear Free Certification
• RECOVER Certification
• Exotic Animal Handling Experience