Description
Position Summary
The Oncology Veterinary Technician at NorthStar VETS plays a critical role in providing compassionate, high-quality care to oncology patients within a fast-paced emergency and specialty environment. This position requires strong technical skills, attention to detail, emotional intelligence, and comfort working with complex cases, including chemotherapy administration and supportive oncology care. Experience with anesthesia is highly valued and considered a strong asset for this role.
The Oncology Technician collaborates closely with oncologists, specialty veterinarians, nursing leadership, and support teams to ensure safe, efficient, and empathetic care for patients and clients.
Core Responsibilities
Oncology & Patient Care
Assist veterinarians with oncology examinations, diagnostics, and treatment plans
Safely prepare, handle, administer, and dispose of chemotherapeutic agents in compliance with hospital protocols, OSHA guidelines, and safety standards
Monitor patients receiving chemotherapy for adverse reactions and promptly report concerns to the medical team
Provide supportive care for oncology patients, including pain management, nutritional support, catheter care, and monitoring of quality-of-life indicators
Accurately calculate drug dosages and infusion rates as directed by the veterinarian
Maintain detailed and accurate medical records in the hospital EMR
Chemotherapy & Safety Protocols
Demonstrate thorough knowledge of chemotherapy protocols, PPE requirements, spill response, and hazardous drug handling
Educate and support clients regarding chemotherapy procedures, at-home precautions, and post-treatment monitoring
Participate in maintaining chemotherapy logs, inventory, and compliance documentation
Anesthesia (Strong Plus)
Assist with anesthetic induction, monitoring, and recovery for oncology patients undergoing diagnostic or surgical procedures
Monitor vital signs, recognize anesthetic complications, and communicate changes promptly
Maintain anesthesia equipment and ensure proper setup and safety checks
Client Communication
Provide clear, compassionate education to clients regarding treatment plans, chemotherapy expectations, and aftercare
Support clients through emotionally challenging situations with professionalism and empathy
Reinforce NorthStar VETS’ commitment to transparency, trust, and client-centered care
Team Collaboration & Workflow
Work collaboratively with emergency, specialty, and nursing teams to ensure continuity of care
Assist with patient triage and workflow prioritization as needed
Serve as a resource and mentor to other technicians or assistants when appropriate
Compliance, Safety & Professional Standards
Adhere to all hospital policies, protocols, and safety standards
Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment
Participate in ongoing training, continuing education, and department initiatives
Uphold NorthStar VETS’ core values and culture expectations at all times
Requirements
Qualifications
Required
Veterinary Technician or Veterinary Assistant experience in a specialty or emergency setting focused in Oncology
Demonstrated comfort with chemotherapy protocols and administration
Strong attention to detail and ability to follow complex medical instructions
Excellent communication and teamwork skills
Ability to remain calm and effective in a high-acuity, fast-paced environment
Preferred
Credentialed Veterinary Technician (RVT/LVT/CVT)
Previous oncology experience in a veterinary specialty hospital
Anesthesia monitoring and recovery experience
Familiarity with OSHA standards and hazardous drug handling
Experience with electronic medical records
Physical Requirements
Ability to lift and restrain patients weighing up to 50 lbs (with assistance as needed)
Ability to stand, walk, and perform technical tasks for extended periods
Manual dexterity to safely handle needles, catheters, and medical equipment
