Radiology Veterinary Assistant

Tufts V.E.T.S. is a multispecialty emergency and critical care VECCS level 1 certified facility in New England. We are an affiliate of the Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine, at Tufts University, providing a unique environment that integrates learning into a busy private practice setting.  We are committed to providing the highest standard of patient care from a wide range of specialty services including emergency and critical care, anesthesia, surgery, internal medicine, oncology, radiology and diagnostic imaging, ophthalmology, dermatology, cardiology, and urgent care.  We are continually seeking to unite highly skilled professionals in veterinary medicine to provide a collaborative environment that strives to promote and strengthen the human-animal bond.    

Tufts V.E.T.S. strives to be a community where diversity and inclusion are a priority. 

REPORTS TO:  Specialty Technician Supervisor

POSITION OVERVIEW

The Radiology/Diagnostic Imaging Veterinary Assistant plays an essential role in supporting the smooth and efficient operation of the imaging service. Working closely with veterinary technicians, radiologists, and other specialty services, this team member helps ensure that patients receive high-quality, compassionate care during diagnostic imaging procedures.

This position requires a calm and patient-focused individual who is comfortable working in a fast-paced environment with a variety of patients and procedures. Responsibilities include assisting with patient restraint and positioning for radiographs, CT, ultrasound, and fluoroscopy; preparing patients for imaging studies; maintaining cleanliness and organization of imaging suites; and providing comfort and reassurance to patients throughout their visits. The assistant also helps with digital image management, patient prep documentation, and coordination between services to ensure timely and accurate diagnostics.

Ideal candidates are detail-oriented, dependable, and strong communicators with a passion for patient care and teamwork. The Radiology Veterinary Assistant is a key support role that contributes directly to the hospital’s ability to diagnose and treat patients accurately and efficiently.

POSITION RESPONSIBILITIES

Veterinary Assistants in this role are expected to actively work toward and complete Level 1 and Level 2 Veterinary Assistant skill sign-offs as part of their professional development. See Veterinary Assistant Skills List for detailed requirements.

Radiology specific duties include but are not limited to: 

• Restrain patients for ultrasounds or other procedures. Can effectively and safely restrain pets for blood draws, catheter placement, procedures, treatments, FNAs, or general examinations

• Able to multi-task effectively; able to transition between radiography, ultrasonography, and CT

• Performs general husbandry of all day cases, including walking dogs, changing litter boxes and food/water bowls

• Works with technicians to complete daily/weekly/monthly department checklists

• Knows how to use basic functions of StringSoft (enter in TPRW, print patient label, enter in patient history, look-up patient/client, enter client communications, look-up appointments, review invoices/estimates, complete patient treatment- must be overseen by technician or doctor, etc.)

• Obtain and document patient’s vitals (TPRW) in StringSoft

• Can assist doctors and technicians with the administration of medications

• Assist with setup, use, and maintenance of patient monitoring equipment and warming devices

• Assist technicians with sedated procedures

• Operate blood analyzer machines and performing in-house testing

• Perform diagnostic imaging, including positioning of the patients utilizing non-manual restraint. 

• Can collect non-sterile urine (free catch) specimens for laboratory submission

• Maintains cleanliness and stocking of radiology areas

• Understands the importance of prioritizing tasks and keeps oneself busy and productive during work shifts

General Expectations

• Assist in training new team members and veterinary students

• Collaborate effectively with veterinary staff to provide comprehensive patient care 

• Participate in continuous education to stay updated with advancements in veterinary practices.  

• Meet with Supervisor regularly to review any concerns or issues

• Participate in regular team meetings 

• Follows appropriate leadership structure when communicating, reporting, and resolving concerns and issues 

• Maintain an optimistic attitude and follow TVETS policies including the Employee Code of Conduct. Your conduct and interaction with team members and clients is a top priority and is continually evaluated 

• Adhere to all hospital policies and standards as required by the employee manual 

• Serve as a representative of the hospital. Display courtesy, tact, consideration, and a positive attitude in all interactions with clients, patients, and team member 

• Adhere to your work schedule. Be on the floor ready to work at the start of your shift 

• Demonstrate initiative and teamwork in your duties each day 

• Demonstrate professionalism and discourage gossip/rumors 

• Maintain strict confidentiality 

• Follow all hospital safety protocols 

• Providing compassionate care to patients and clients 

• Conducting oneself in a professional and confident manner, even under pressure 

• Maintaining positive, cooperative working relationships with all team members 

• Communicate openly, effectively, and regularly with all management/supervisors and specialists 

• Maintain positive rapport between all hospital team members and clients 

• Maintain open, positive, and productive communications 

• Performs other duties as assigned by the Specialty Technician Supervisor

Personal conduct and interpersonal skills are very important.  Interaction with hospital team members and clients is a top priority and is continually evaluated. 

**Position responsibilities may change on a temporary or regular basis according to the needs of the service or business without it being specifically included in the job description.

SCHEDULE 

Shifts TBD. Weekend and holiday coverage as required by the service. Schedule subject to change at managements discretion to meet the needs of the service. This position is considered essential and is therefore required to work as scheduled during inclement weather (i.e., during snowstorms). 

QUALIFICATIONS/REQUIREMENTS 

EDUCATION AND LICENSURE REQUIREMENTS 

• High school diploma or equivalent 

• Degree in Veterinary Technology and/or Animal Science preferred 

• Certified Veterinary Assistant preferred 

EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS 

• Minimum of 1 year working in the veterinary field as a Veterinary Assistant 

• Prior experience working in diagnostic imaging, emergency and critical care, or specialty medicine preferred  

PERSONAL REQUIREMENTS 

• Minimum of 18 years old

• Genuinely enjoys working with animals and can treat them compassionately even when they are stressed, ill or in pain

• Must support and foster an environment of diversity, inclusion, collaboration, and empathy

• Must have excellent interpersonal relationship and communication skills

• Can multi-task in a fast-paced working environment

• Can stay calm and efficient under pressure

• Is detail oriented and reliable

• Has a high commitment to providing exceptional patient/client care

• Has excellent communication skills

• Must be professional, approachable, and maintain an optimistic outlook

• Proficient at working with digital records, Microsoft Word/Excel, and Google Docs 

• Physical Effort: Work requires lifting and carrying animals (will be assisted by other staff members in lifting animals over 40 lbs.).  Walks or stands for extended periods or time; frequently works in a bent position

• Working conditions:  May be exposed to unpleasant odors, noise, and animal feces. May be exposed to bites, scratches, and contagious diseases. Will be exposed (with proper PPE and protocols in place) to chemotherapeutic agents

 CONTINUING EDUCATION  

• Advanced training and credentialing are strongly encouraged 

• Required to attend in-hospital training and CE as assigned 

Salary : $20 - $25