Licensed Veterinary Technician (LVT)

Licensed Veterinary Technician (LVT) Job Description

Position Title: Licensed Veterinary Technician (LVT)

Reports To: Lead Veterinary Technician / Hospital Manager / Veterinarian

Department: Medical Team

FLSA Status: Non-Exempt

Position Summary

The Licensed Veterinary Technician (LVT) plays a critical role in delivering high-quality patient care and supporting veterinarians in all aspects of medicine, surgery, dentistry, and client communication. LVTs provide advanced technical skills, oversee anesthetic monitoring, complete dental procedures, run laboratory diagnostics, and help train/mentor veterinary assistants to ensure a smooth, efficient, and compassionate hospital flow.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Patient Care & Nursing

- Safely restrain and handle patients for exams, treatments, and procedures.
- Provide nursing care to hospitalized patients (monitor vitals, administer treatments, fluid therapy, pain management).
- Perform dental prophylaxis and dental charting, under the supervision of a veterinarian.
- Monitor and assist with induction, anesthesia, and recovery.

Medical & Surgical Support

- Prepare surgical suites, instruments, drugs, and equipment.
- Place IV catheters, administer anesthesia, monitor patients, and maintain detailed anesthesia logs.
- Run in-house diagnostics (CBC, chemistry, urinalysis, cytology, fecal, SNAP tests).
- Assist veterinarians with medical procedures and emergencies.
- Accurately enter medical notes and charges into the practice management system.

Client Communication

- Educate clients on preventative care, treatment plans, nutrition, medications, and discharge instructions.
- Support client understanding with compassion, clarity, and professionalism.

Hospital Operations

- Ensure all areas (treatment, surgery, kennels, exam rooms) are clean and fully stocked.
- Sterilize and maintain surgical instruments and medical equipment.
- Adhere to AAHA standards, OSHA guidelines, infection control, and hospital safety protocols.
- Mentor and support veterinary assistants and technician assistants.

Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

- Proficient in anesthesia induction, monitoring, and recovery.
- Skilled in dental procedures and charting.
- Advanced knowledge of laboratory diagnostics and pharmacology.
- Strong organizational and multitasking abilities.
- Compassionate communication skills with clients and team members.
- Ability to lead, mentor, and support assistants effectively.

Education & Experience

- Licensed Veterinary Technician (LVT/CVT/RVT) in good standing.
- Minimum 1 year of experience in clinical veterinary practice preferred.
- Fear Free certification or willingness to obtain preferred.

Physical Requirements

- Ability to stand, walk, bend, and kneel for extended periods.
- Ability to lift and carry up to 50 lbs (with assistance available for larger patients).
- Exposure to allergens, zoonotic diseases, anesthesia, radiation, and cleaning chemicals with appropriate PPE provided.

Core Values Alignment

- Hospital-Oriented: Supports the team and creates a positive environment.
- Results-Driven: Ensures high-quality, efficient care.
- Accountable: Takes responsibility and follows through.
- Transparent: Communicates clearly with clients and teammates.
- Innovative: Seeks ongoing learning and improvement.