Washington Humane Society·Washington, District of Columbia
The Veterinary Technician will provide comprehensive medical care, including surgical support, diagnostic testing, and wellness exams for shelter and owned animals. They will also assist with population management, staff training, and maintaining medical records within the facility.
About the Humane Rescue Alliance (HRA)
For more than 150 years, the Humane Rescue Alliance has championed the protection of animals, support for people, and service to the community. With campuses in the District of Columbia and New Jersey, along with the nation’s leading pet transport initiative, it stands as the largest and most comprehensive animal services provider in the region. Each year, HRA transforms the lives of tens of thousands of animals through rescue and adoption, humane protection, access to medical care, innovative community programs, and legislative leadership. Its broad reach and deep expertise enable HRA to reimagine traditional sheltering and address the most complex challenges facing animals and the people who love them.
The Humane Rescue Alliance seeks a Veterinary Technician to join a dynamic team of medical professionals to provide consistent medical care to animals in the nation’s capital. This role offers a unique opportunity to support animals in need, deepen your understanding of community medicine and shelter, and develop your veterinary skills. The veterinary technician provides a wide range of medical care and guidance, from basic wellness and care information to surgical support for shelter animals and owned animals. Candidates should have an advanced working knowledge of veterinary medicine and animal care and behavior.
Join an organization dedicated to fostering personal growth, providing opportunities for learning, and serving both the animals and owners of our nation’s capital. Candidates must be committed to providing incremental levels of support to owned animals, with an emphasis on improving access to care and strengthening the human-animal bond.
What you’ll do
Rotate between the medical center, surgery center, and community clinic as assigned.
Perform intake exams and begin treatments on patients following our protocols and standard operating procedures; administer vaccinations, parasiticides, and routine screenings on a variety of species.
Perform surgical support, including but not limited to surgery prep, anesthesia induction, intubation, monitoring, recovery, emergency intervention, as well as general cleaning and equipment management.
Assist Veterinarians with patient appointments for illnesses, including obtaining patient histories, addressing client or foster parent concerns, performing indicated diagnostics, administering treatments, and reviewing discharge instructions.
Perform diagnostics and collect and prepare laboratory samples for analysis.
Perform advanced clinical procedures, including but not limited to digital radiology, dental scaling, polishing, and radiology, cystocentesis, enema placement, and advanced wound care.
Calculate, administer, and record medications; complete controlled drug logs; fill prescriptions.
Perform and assist with euthanasia.
Perform shelter rounds and monitor population health.
Work with other departments to determine the best pathway of incoming animals, i.e.; Adoption, Transfer, Medical Treatment, Spay/Neuter etc.
Assist with training new and existing veterinary support staff on technical skills and veterinary knowledge.
Update and maintain population management software, patient files, review care plans, and handle other administrative duties, as necessary.
Maintain advanced knowledge of veterinary pharmacology, including drug classes, indications, dosing, and potential side effects.
Maintain departmental procedures and protocols regarding humane care and treatment of animals, exam area cleanliness, and safety guidelines.
Always represent HRA in a professional and courteous manner. Provide quality service to the public, volunteers, and employees recognizing their individual contributions to the success of the organization.
Adhere to expectations for punctuality and attendance.
Perform other duties as assigned.
About you: Skills & qualifications
Benefits: Overview: Humane rescue alliance (Hra)
At the Humane Rescue Alliance (HRA), we are committed to supporting the well-being of our employees so they can continue making a meaningful impact for animals and the community. We offer a comprehensive and competitive benefits package designed to support your health, financial security, and work-life balance.
Multilingual candidates are encouraged to apply. A salary premium may be offered for multilingual candidates who demonstrate proficiency in written and oral testing.
HRA is committed to being an Equal Opportunity Employer, and does not discriminate because of race, color, creed, gender, religion, national origin, disability, age, pregnancy, genetic predisposition or carrier status, marital status, citizenship status, or sexual orientation. Accommodations will be provided to qualified individuals requiring them.
Market context
In the District of Columbia, veterinary technician roles are typically competitive because employers look for licensed candidates who can safely handle animals, recognize common disease states, and follow DEA, OSHA, and hospital safety guidelines. This role stands out for applicants who can combine clinical skill with calm, compassionate handling in a fast-paced setting. The job requirements and benefits shown here are AI-summarized from the original job description, helping you review the role faster; before applying, confirm your LVT status and be ready to discuss safety protocols and animal-handling experience.
