Animal Health Technician Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the era of advanced veterinary care, the role of Animal Health Technicians has never been more vital.

As animal healthcare progresses, the demand for skilled professionals who can assist, manage, and enhance the health of our animal companions continues to grow.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s really expected of an Animal Health Technician?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker aiming to understand the core of this profession,
• A hiring manager trying to identify the perfect candidate,
• Or simply fascinated by the intricacies of animal health care,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we introduce a customizable Animal Health Technician job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right in.

Animal Health Technician Duties and Responsibilities

Animal Health Technicians, also known as Veterinary Technicians, carry out a variety of tasks to assist Veterinarians in providing care for animals.

They use their professional knowledge to ensure the wellbeing and health of animals.

The duties and responsibilities of an Animal Health Technician include:

• Assisting Veterinarians during examinations and surgical procedures
• Administering medications, vaccinations, and treatments as prescribed by Veterinarians
• Conducting laboratory tests to diagnose diseases and infections
• Collecting and preparing samples like blood, urine, or tissue for testing
• Providing emergency first aid or general nursing care
• Maintaining controlled drug inventory and related log books
• Recording patient information and ensure it remains updated
• Handling basic care duties, including cleaning and dressing wounds, administering medication, and checking vital signs
• Educating pet owners on home care for their pets
• Ordering, maintaining, and managing inventory of supplies and equipment

 

Animal Health Technician Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are looking for a dedicated Animal Health Technician to assist with the care and treatment of animals.

The Animal Health Technician will be responsible for providing medical and preventative care to animals, performing diagnostic tests, and assisting veterinarians with surgical procedures.

Our ideal candidate has a deep love for animals, strong communication skills, and a keen eye for detail.

A background in veterinary medicine or a related field is a must.

 

Responsibilities

• Assist veterinarians in examining and treating animals
• Administer anesthesia to animals, under the direction of a veterinarian, and monitor animals’ responses
• Perform laboratory tests on blood, urine, and feces, such as urinalyses and blood counts
• Provide nursing care or emergency first aid to recovering or injured animals
• Bathe animals, clip nails or claws, and brush or cut animals’ hair
• Educate pet owners on how to care for their pets’ health
• Maintain controlled drug inventory and related log books
• Administer vaccines and advise on general animal health topics
• Prepare animals and instruments for surgery
• Clean and maintain kennels, animal holding areas, examination and operating rooms

 

Qualifications

• Associate’s degree in Veterinary Technology or a related field
• Professional certification as a Veterinary Technician (RVT, LVT, CVT)
• Experience working with animals in a veterinary setting
• Knowledge of animal behavior and care
• Excellent communication and organizational skills
• Ability to handle stressful situations
• Experience with veterinary software is a plus

 

Benefits

• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Vision insurance
• Paid time off
• Retirement plan
• Continuing education assistance

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Animal Health Technician
• Work Environment: Veterinary clinic or animal hospital. The role can involve physical tasks such as lifting or restraining animals.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Veterinary Practice Manager or Lead Veterinarian.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $31,000 minimum to $46,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does an Animal Health Technician Do?

Animal Health Technicians, also known as Veterinary Technicians, are medical professionals who provide care and medical assistance to animals under the supervision of a licensed Veterinarian.

They perform various clinical procedures including blood and urine collection, preparation of tissue samples, administration of medication, and vaccinations.

They are also responsible for conducting laboratory tests to diagnose diseases and conditions in animals.

Animal Health Technicians assist in surgical procedures by providing anesthesia to animals and monitoring their vital signs during surgery.

They also assist in dental procedures, cleaning and polishing animal teeth.

They are often the primary communicators with pet owners, explaining procedures, discussing animal health concerns and providing advice on animal nutrition, behavior and general care.

Other responsibilities may include maintaining patient records, sterilizing equipment and ensuring the cleanliness of the veterinary facility.

Depending on their place of employment, they may work with small domestic pets, large farm animals, or even exotic animals in zoos and wildlife parks.

 

Animal Health Technician Qualifications and Skills

An Animal Health Technician should have the following skills and qualifications:

• Comprehensive knowledge in animal behavior, anatomy, and physiology to help identify and understand health issues.
• Strong attention to detail to assist in diagnosing diseases and monitoring treatment plans.
• Excellent communication skills to effectively interact with pet owners, explaining health conditions and treatment options.
• Interpersonal skills to work well with veterinarians and other animal health professionals, contributing to a collaborative care environment.
• Physical fitness and agility to handle animals of various sizes and temperaments, performing duties like lifting, holding, or restraining animals during examinations or procedures.
• Problem-solving skills to swiftly make decisions during emergencies and assist with critical care.
• Empathy and compassion for animals and their owners to provide emotional support during difficult times.
• Technical skills to operate and maintain medical equipment like x-ray and ultrasound machines, as well as administer medications.

 

Animal Health Technician Experience Requirements

Animal Health Technicians often start their career by earning an associate’s degree in veterinary technology or a related field where they gain both theoretical knowledge and practical experience through clinical practicums.

In some cases, individuals may gain experience by volunteering or working part-time at animal clinics, shelters, or farms while they are still students.

These positions provide valuable hands-on experience in dealing with animals under supervision and can be a stepping stone to more professional roles.

Entry-level Animal Health Technicians typically have at least 1 to 2 years of experience in the field.

This could be through internships, part-time work or even full-time roles at veterinary clinics, animal hospitals, or research facilities.

Those with more than 3 years of experience have likely honed their skills in areas such as animal handling, administering medication, assisting in surgeries, and performing laboratory tests.

They may also have experience in specialized areas such as emergency and critical care, anesthesia, dental care, or radiology.

Candidates with 5 or more years of experience in the field may have taken on additional responsibilities such as training new technicians, overseeing clinic operations, or coordinating animal care programs.

They may be ready to progress into senior or managerial roles within an animal healthcare facility.

 

Animal Health Technician Education and Training Requirements

Animal Health Technicians, also known as Veterinary Technicians, usually require an associate degree in veterinary technology.

These two-year programs are typically offered through community colleges and technical schools.

These programs provide a comprehensive education in animal health, nutrition, anatomy, physiology, and medical terminology.

Additional coursework includes diagnostic imaging, anaesthesia, surgical nursing, and laboratory procedures.

After completing the degree, technicians are required to pass a state-issued licensing examination.

This exam tests their understanding of basic veterinary knowledge and their ability to perform the clinical procedures required in a veterinary practice.

In addition to these formal education requirements, Animal Health Technicians should have strong interpersonal skills, as they often interact with pet owners, and should be comfortable working with animals of all sizes.

Although not mandatory, many technicians pursue specialty certifications to further enhance their skills and knowledge in specific areas such as dentistry, anesthesia, internal medicine, and emergency and critical care.

Continuing education is crucial in this field as it keeps technicians up-to-date with the latest advancements in animal healthcare technology and practices.

 

Animal Health Technician Salary Expectations

An Animal Health Technician can expect an average salary of $35,320 (USD) per year.

However, the actual compensation can differ based on factors such as their level of expertise, location, and the organization they work for.

 

Animal Health Technician Job Description FAQs

What skills does an Animal Health Technician need?

Animal Health Technicians should possess solid communication and interpersonal skills to effectively interact with animals and their owners.

They need strong problem-solving abilities to diagnose and treat various animal health issues.

They should be adept in providing first aid, collecting samples, and administering medications.

Technicians should also be physically fit to handle animals and should have a compassionate nature.

 

Do Animal Health Technicians need a degree?

Yes, most Animal Health Technicians require a two-year associate’s degree in veterinary technology.

They must also pass a credentialing exam to become registered, licensed, or certified depending on the state’s regulations.

Some technicians choose to specialize in a specific area of veterinary technology and may pursue further education or certification in that field.

 

What should you look for in an Animal Health Technician resume?

Firstly, ensure that the candidate has the necessary credentials and licensing to work as an Animal Health Technician.

Look for degrees in veterinary technology from accredited institutions and valid licenses or certifications.

Experience in a veterinary setting or with particular types of animals can also be a plus.

Any additional skills such as lab work, radiography, anesthesia, or emergency care should be considered.

 

What qualities make a good Animal Health Technician?

A good Animal Health Technician is compassionate and has a genuine love for animals.

They should be patient, as working with animals can sometimes be challenging.

They need to have strong problem-solving skills to diagnose and treat a variety of health issues, and be detail-oriented to accurately record treatment plans and patients’ progress.

Good physical stamina is also important as the job can be physically demanding.

 

What are the daily duties of an Animal Health Technician?

An Animal Health Technician’s day often starts with checking on the animals under their care.

They administer medications, assist in surgeries, collect and test laboratory samples, and update patient records.

They may also conduct routine procedures like vaccinations, dental care, and grooming.

Technicians often interact with pet owners, providing updates on their pet’s condition and advising on proper animal care.

Their day could also involve emergency care, depending on the animal’s condition.

 

Conclusion

And there we have it.

Today, we’ve shed light on what it really means to be an Animal Health Technician.

Surprised?

It’s not just about caring for animals.

It’s about safeguarding their health and wellness, one procedure at a time.

Armed with our comprehensive Animal Health Technician job description template and practical examples, you’re ready to take the next step.

But why pause here?

Go a step further with our job description generator. It’s your ultimate tool for crafting precise job listings or refining your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every procedure contributes to the bigger picture.

Let’s safeguard animal health. Together.

How to Become an Animal Health Technician (Complete Guide)

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