VCA RIVER is hiring an experienced Veterinary Assistant to join our emergency and ICU team at our AAHA-accredited emergency and specialty animal hospital in Chattanooga, TN.

Come work in a family environment where we embody a positive culture of trust, support, and teamwork. We nurture the concept of providing world class medicine and hometown care. If this sounds like your ideal work home, read more to see what else we provide for our patients, clients, and team members.

Location: VCA Regional Institute for Veterinary Emergencies and Referrals

2132 Amnicola Hwy, Chattanooga, TN 37406

Shift availability: .

The veterinary radiology/imaging assistant works hand in hand with our radiologist to perform advanced imaging procedures including but not limited to ultrasounds, echocardiograms, fluoroscopy and CT scans. The radiology/imaging assistant is under direct supervision and guidance of the veterinary technician/assistant supervisor.

Job Requirements

Experience: Minimum 1 year technician/assistant experience. Work in Specialty or ER practice is a plusEducation: High school diploma or GED, graduate of AVMA Accredited Veterinary Technician program; A.S. Veterinary Technology. Passing score on VTNE and state licensure is a plus.Personal:Good communication skills with coworkers and clientsAbility to work well with others as a teamAbility to multitask, prioritize and delegateFlexibility and the ability to adjust to a changing environment and handle stress calmlyAttention to detail and willingness to question when unsure: Ability to think before actingSelf-motivated, hard workerActive interest in medicine and animal careWillingness to learn new tasks and learn quicklyAble to receive criticism and accept responsibility for actionsProfessionalismReliableDependableCommon sense

Primary Job Responsibilities

Assist radiologist in performing advanced imaging procedures including but not limited to ultrasounds, echocardiograms, fluoroscopy and CT scansPerform basic maintenance and care on imaging equipment, including but not limited to lead gowns, gloves, thyroid shields, sandbags, tables, etc.Understanding of imaging/radiology softwareAbility to perform hands free positioningAbility to read and monitor dosimetry reportingAids in radiation safety education and monitoring (badges, PPE maintenance and use, and scheduled vulnerability checks in any/all lead equipment). Helps ensure safety during all proceduresUnderstanding of special procedures associated with radiographic imaging: cystogram, IVP, spinal/myelography, PENN Hip/OFA orthopedic filmsFoundational knowledge of common conditions and/or disease processes associated with imaging studiesUnderstanding of patient risks associated with imaging modalities and contrast mediaAbility to assist with image-guided studies and sample acquisitionAbility to calculate basic medical math accurately and efficiently: Conversions, dosage calculations, dilutions, fluid additives, urine output.Possesses a working knowledge of anesthesia/monitoring equipment and able to induce, monitor, and perform anesthesia with patients assigned with various ASA classifications under the supervision of appropriate associateUnderstanding of common sedation and anesthesia drugs, their uses, common side effects, reversals, etc.Maintenance of image acquisition software, upgrades and server backupsMaintain billing records for teleradiologyPerform technician/assistant responsibilities including but not limited to:Obtain and record patient historiesCollet specimens and perform routine laboratory procedures and testsVenipunctureDispense or administer medications, treatments, etc. as directed by VeterinarianCommunicate with and educate owners on medication, use, side effects and administrationMaintain and update medical records

The radiology/imaging technician/assistant works under the direct supervision of the technician/assistant supervisor who will indicate assignments, limitations and priorities. The radiology/imaging technician/assistant must use initiative to carry out assignments independently without specific instruction but will refer problems or unfamiliar situations not covered by instruction to supervisor.

Skills and Knowledge

Knowledge of procedures used for advanced imagingKnowledge of use, care and storage of veterinary instruments, materials and equipment, not limited to imaging.Strong communication skills with teammates and doctorsStrong time management skillsTelephone and computer skill are necessaryMust be a team player willing to learn new techniques and treatments and to able accept changeMust be able to handle schedule II – IV drugs

Physical Requirements:

Dependable attendance is requiredAny allergies to animals must be controllable through medicationMust be able to lift 40 poundsMust be willing to work long or irregular hours under pressure conditionsThis position requires the ability to walk, bend, stand and reach constantly during a minimum 8-hour dayVisual acuity sufficient to maintain accurate records, recognize people and understand written directions.Ability to speak and hear sufficiently to understand, give information in person and over the telephoneFine motor skills adequate for utilizing hospital equipment such as electric clippers, syringes, radiology equipment, laboratory equipment, computers, etc.
 

Duties:

The following is a list of essential job requirements. This list may be revised at any time and additional duties not listed here may be assigned as needed. Job functions and job responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

Client relationsNursing careHousekeeping/maintenanceExaminations/AssessmentsRecord KeepingAnesthesiaSurgeryRadiologyLaboratoryPharmacy

Interested in learning more? Apply today!

The information in this position description indicates the general nature and level of work to be performed. It is not designed to be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities, and qualifications required of associates assigned to this job. Management reserves the right to revise the job description or require that other tasks be performed when the circumstances of the job change (for example, emergencies, change in personnel, workload, or technical development)

We are proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer - Veterans / Disabled. For a complete EEO statement please see our career page at vcacareers.com

If you are a current associate, you need to apply through our internal career site. Please log into Workday and click on the Jobs Hub app or search for Browse Jobs.

Benefits: We offer competitive compensation along with a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, vision and paid vacation/sick days, 401(k), generous employee pet discounts and more!

The information in this position description indicates the general nature and level of work to be performed. It is not designed to be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities, and qualifications required of associates assigned to this job. Management reserves the right to revise the job description or require that other tasks be performed when the circumstances of the job change (for example, emergencies, change in personnel, workload, or technical development).

We are proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer - Veterans / Disabled. For a complete EEO statement please see our career page at vcacareers.com.