Emergency and Critical Care Vet Tech Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the world of veterinary medicine, the role of emergency and critical care vet techs is pivotal.

As advancements in pet healthcare surge, the demand for skilled individuals who can provide immediate, life-saving care for our furry friends grows.

But let’s examine this more closely: What’s really expected from an emergency and critical care vet tech?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the depth of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply intrigued by the nuances of emergency veterinary care,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable emergency and critical care vet tech job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right in.

Emergency and Critical Care Vet Tech Duties and Responsibilities

Emergency and Critical Care Vet Techs are crucial members of the veterinary team who assist in saving the lives of animals.

They work in high-pressure environments and are responsible for the immediate treatment of ill or injured pets.

Their duties and responsibilities include:

• Assisting veterinarians in providing immediate and life-saving care to critically ill or injured animals
• Performing emergency medical procedures such as first aid, CPR, and intubation
• Monitoring vital signs such as heart rate, body temperature, and respiration rate
• Administering medications, fluids, and anesthesia as directed by the veterinarian
• Performing diagnostic tests and imaging such as blood work, x-rays, and ultrasound
• Providing post-operative care and monitoring the recovery of animals
• Keeping detailed records of the animal’s condition, treatment, and progress
• Communicating with pet owners about their pet’s condition, care, and treatment plan
• Maintaining cleanliness and sterilization of the treatment area, equipment, and surgical tools
• Comforting and restraining animals during examinations and procedures

 

Emergency and Critical Care Vet Tech Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a highly competent and dedicated Emergency and Critical Care Vet Tech to join our team.

The ideal candidate will be responsible for providing emergency and intensive care to animals, under the supervision of veterinarians.

This role requires hands-on experience with various medical procedures and equipment and the ability to handle stressful situations calmly and effectively.

 

Responsibilities

• Assist veterinarians in providing emergency and critical care to animals
• Prepare animals for surgery and assist during surgical procedures
• Administer medication as prescribed by the veterinarian
• Monitor and update patient records
• Perform diagnostic procedures such as blood tests, urine tests, and x-rays
• Provide nursing care and rehabilitation therapies
• Maintain and sterilize medical instruments and equipment
• Communicate with pet owners about the condition and care of their pets
• Participate in continuing education to stay current with veterinary practices

 

Qualifications

• Proven work experience as a Vet Tech, preferably in emergency and critical care
• Knowledge of veterinary medical terminology and procedures
• Ability to handle and restrain animals safely
• Excellent observational and diagnostic skills
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills
• Proficient in using medical software for record keeping
• Diploma from an accredited Veterinary Technology program
• Professional certification as a Veterinary Technician (RVT, LVT, CVT) is desirable

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Continuing education support

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Emergency and Critical Care Vet Tech
• Work Environment: Veterinary Hospital or Clinic. The role may involve working in shifts including nights, weekends, and holidays.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Veterinary Surgeon or Practice Manager.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $31,000 minimum to $48,000 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 Emergency and Critical Care Vet Tech Do?

Emergency and Critical Care Vet Techs, also known as Veterinary Technicians specializing in emergency and critical care, work in animal hospitals or clinics.

They primarily deal with animals in severe states of health due to injury, illness, or surgical recovery.

Their primary role is to assist the veterinarian in the treatment of emergency cases, which often involve life-threatening situations.

This may involve handling various medical equipment, preparing animals for surgery, administering medication as directed by the veterinarian, and performing life-saving procedures such as CPR.

They monitor the condition of critically ill animals, record vital signs, and keep the veterinarian informed of any changes in the animal’s condition.

Emergency and Critical Care Vet Techs also communicate with pet owners, explaining the condition of their pets, what treatments are being done, and how they can care for their pets at home.

They may also provide comfort and support to pet owners during these stressful situations.

Additionally, they are responsible for maintaining a clean and sterile environment in the emergency and critical care units, ensuring all equipment and supplies are prepared and available when needed.

Their roles require a high level of competence, quick decision making, and emotional resilience due to the intensity and emotional stress involved in dealing with critically ill or injured animals.

 

Emergency and Critical Care Vet Tech Qualifications and Skills

Emergency and Critical Care Vet Techs must possess a variety of technical skills, soft skills, and medical knowledge to provide quality care for animals in critical conditions, including:

• Technical knowledge and skill in veterinary medicine to provide emergency care and perform critical procedures efficiently.
• Exceptional attention to detail to accurately diagnose and treat the animals’ condition, administer medication, and monitor vital signs.
• Strong communication skills to liaise with veterinarians, educate pet owners about their pet’s condition, and provide clear instructions for post-treatment care.
• Problem-solving skills to quickly assess situations and make decisions during emergency situations.
• Interpersonal skills to empathize with pet owners during stressful situations and provide support.
• Physical stamina to work long shifts and handle animals of various sizes.
• Ability to work under high pressure while maintaining a calm demeanor to provide quality care to the animals in distress.
• Customer service skills for scheduling appointments, handling paperwork, and following up with pet owners.

 

Emergency and Critical Care Vet Tech Experience Requirements

Emergency and Critical Care Vet Techs typically need to complete a two-year associate’s degree in veterinary technology, where they gain both theoretical knowledge and practical experience working with animals under the guidance of experienced professionals.

Post-graduation, many vet techs gain further experience by completing an internship or working part-time in a veterinary clinic or animal hospital.

They may start as general Vet Techs, gradually gaining experience in emergency and critical care through direct exposure to critical cases.

To be considered for an Emergency and Critical Care Vet Tech role, candidates usually need at least 2 to 3 years of hands-on experience working in a veterinary emergency department or critical care unit.

They should be proficient in emergency procedures, anesthesia, and the use of various diagnostic equipment.

Those with more than 5 years of experience may have advanced skills in emergency response, critical care nursing, and surgical assistance.

They might also have some managerial experience, making them suitable for senior or supervisory roles within an emergency veterinary team.

Furthermore, obtaining a Veterinary Technician Specialist (VTS) certification in Emergency and Critical Care can significantly enhance a Vet Tech’s career prospects.

This certification requires a minimum of 3 years of full-time experience or 5,760 hours in the field of veterinary emergency and critical care.

 

Emergency and Critical Care Vet Tech Education and Training Requirements

Becoming an Emergency and Critical Care Vet Tech requires a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by completion of an accredited Veterinary Technology program, which usually takes two years to complete and leads to an associate degree.

In these programs, students are trained in animal nursing, anesthesia, radiology, and other areas of veterinary medicine.

Practical training is also included in these programs, often in the form of internships or externships at veterinary clinics or hospitals.

Following education, all states require Vet Techs to become licensed, registered, or certified.

This generally involves passing the Veterinary Technician National Examination (VTNE), which tests practical skills and knowledge in animal healthcare.

For a specialization in emergency and critical care, additional training and experience are required.

This can be obtained through a specialty internship or on-the-job training at an emergency veterinary facility.

After gaining sufficient experience, vet techs can apply for specialty certification from the Academy of Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care Technicians (AVECCT).

This certification requires passing an exam and submitting case logs and case reports to demonstrate knowledge and experience in the field.

Continuing education is also important in this role, as it allows vet techs to stay updated on the latest practices and procedures in emergency and critical care.

 

Emergency and Critical Care Vet Tech Salary Expectations

An Emergency and Critical Care Vet Tech can expect to earn an average salary of $37,860 (USD) per year.

This salary can vary depending on factors such as years of experience, educational background, and the location of the practice.

 

Emergency and Critical Care Vet Tech Job Description FAQs

What skills does an Emergency and Critical Care Vet Tech need?

Emergency and Critical Care Vet Techs should have excellent animal handling skills and a strong understanding of animal behavior.

They must also possess the technical skills necessary for tasks such as administering medication, drawing blood, and assisting with surgeries.

Additionally, these individuals should have strong communication skills to deal with pet owners, and the ability to work well under pressure.

 

What qualifications does an Emergency and Critical Care Vet Tech need?

Emergency and Critical Care Vet Techs typically need to have a degree in veterinary technology and be licensed or certified, depending on the state they are practicing in.

They also need to have completed some form of clinical experience, often gained through internships during their degree program.

Some positions may require additional certifications, such as certification in emergency and critical care.

 

What qualities make a good Emergency and Critical Care Vet Tech?

A good Emergency and Critical Care Vet Tech is one who is compassionate and patient, as they will often be dealing with animals in stressful or painful situations.

They should also be detail-oriented to ensure accuracy in tasks such as administering medication or recording patient information.

Moreover, they should have a high level of physical stamina, as the job often requires prolonged standing, bending, or lifting.

 

What should you look for in an Emergency and Critical Care Vet Tech resume?

A strong Emergency and Critical Care Vet Tech resume will demonstrate a combination of education, licensing, and relevant clinical experience.

Look for specifics about the types of animals they have cared for, the range of medical procedures they have assisted with, and their experience in emergency situations.

Also, consider their soft skills, such as communication, attention to detail, and ability to work under pressure.

 

Is it difficult to hire an Emergency and Critical Care Vet Tech?

Hiring an Emergency and Critical Care Vet Tech can be challenging due to the specialized nature of the role.

There is a smaller pool of qualified candidates compared to general veterinary technicians, and those with substantial experience in emergency and critical care are particularly in demand.

Therefore, it’s important to offer competitive compensation and opportunities for professional development to attract the best candidates.

 

Conclusion

And there we have it.

Today, we’ve taken a journey through the ins and outs of being an Emergency and Critical Care Vet Tech.

And guess what?

It’s not just about administering treatment.

It’s about being the lifeline for pets in critical condition, one heartbeat at a time.

With our in-depth Emergency and Critical Care Vet Tech job description template and real-life examples, you’re fully prepared to take the plunge.

But why draw the line there?

Immerse yourself even more with our job description generator. It’s your next leap towards meticulously prepared job postings or polishing your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every heartbeat you monitor is part of a larger lifesaving mission.

Let’s save lives. Together.

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