What are the responsibilities and job description for the Kennel Manager/Instructor position at Vet Tech Institute?
JOB OVERVIEW
Shape Future Veterinary Professionals
Vet Tech Institute is seeking an enthusiastic, experienced, and compassionate Kennel Manager and Instructor to join our Pittsburgh campus. This rewarding dual-role position offers the opportunity to combine hands-on animal care with veterinary education, making a meaningful impact on both the lives of animals and the future careers of Veterinary Technician students. The Kennel Manager is responsible for overseeing the daily operations of our teaching kennel, ensuring exceptional animal welfare, coordinating student kennel training, and maintaining compliance with animal care protocols. In addition, this role provides classroom and laboratory instruction designed to equip students with the knowledge, skills, and professional behaviors necessary for success in the veterinary field. The ideal candidate is passionate about mentoring students, committed to animal welfare, and eager to contribute to a supportive, student-focused learning environment.
Essential Duties & Responsibilities
- Oversee the daily care and well-being of kennel animals, including dogs, cats, rabbits, rats, and mice.
- Monitor animal health and communicate medical concerns with veterinary staff and the Medical Director.
- Coordinate animal acquisitions, fostering opportunities, and adoptions.
- Maintain animal medical records, vaccinations, preventative care protocols, and inventory supplies.
- Present kennel orientations and train students in proper animal care and handling procedures.
- Schedule, monitor, and track student participation in kennel duties.
- Ensure compliance with Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC) standards and protocols.
- Maintain a clean, organized, and safe kennel environment.
- Assist with animal care emergencies and provide off-hours support when necessary.
- Create a positive, supportive, and student-centered learning environment.
- Promote professionalism, accountability, and strong work ethics expected in the veterinary profession.
- Deliver engaging classroom and laboratory instruction using the established curriculum.
- Participate in curriculum development, program improvement, and academic quality initiatives.
- Maintain attendance, grades, lesson plans, and other required academic records.
- Collaborate with faculty and staff to enhance student success and retention.
- Participate in school meetings, graduation ceremonies, open houses, recruiting events, and professional development activities.
- Support and uphold institutional policies, procedures, and professional standards.
REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS
VTNE Certification
Minimum 3 years of veterinary-related experience
Strong knowledge of:
- Veterinary medicine and common companion animal diseases
- Preventive healthcare protocols
- Animal handling and restraint techniques
- Animal welfare and recordkeeping standards
Preferred Skills
- Experience in shelter medicine
- Leadership and team-building abilities
- Excellent communication and organizational skills
- Strong customer service and conflict-resolution skills
- Ability to balance multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment
- Experience training, mentoring, or teaching others
At Vet Tech Institute, you won't just be caring for animals, you'll be helping shape the future of veterinary technicians.
You'll Enjoy:
- A rewarding career combining animal care and education
- The opportunity to mentor and influence future Veterinary Technicians
- Working alongside passionate veterinary professionals and educators
- Making a direct impact on both student success and animal welfare
- Ongoing professional growth and development opportunities
Pay: From $25.00 per hour
Benefits:
- 401(k) matching
- Health insurance
- Life insurance
- Paid time off
- Professional development assistance
Education:
- Associate (Required)
Experience:
- Veterinary technician: 3 years (Required)
License/Certification:
- Veterinary Technician Certification (Required)
Work Location: In person
Salary : $25