Lead Veterinary Technologist

About the Role

Vancouver Animal Wellness Hospital is searching for a passionate Lead Veterinary Technologist to join their full-time team in Mount Pleasant. This isn't just another RVT position — it's an opportunity to step into a leadership role at a practice that blends conventional Western veterinary medicine with complementary modalities like acupuncture, laser therapy, massage, herbal medicine, and nutrition-focused care. You'll be at the heart of a collaborative, close-knit team that genuinely values communication, education, and empathy.

Beyond hands-on patient care, you'll mentor new team members, shape the treatment schedule to keep things fair and manageable, and coordinate vacation coverage. You'll work directly with the hospital's leadership to strengthen team culture and hospital reputation — all while delivering exemplary care in a calm, modern facility equipped with in-house diagnostics and digital radiography. This is a full-time permanent role offering real work-life balance through thoughtful scheduling and supportive colleagues.

Key Responsibilities

• Support and direct the treatment team in a professional, compassionate manner
• Provide nursing care to stable patients according to hospital standards and core values
• Train and orient new team members
• Create equitable schedules and coordinate vacation coverage
• Perform peripheral IV catheter placement and venipuncture for blood collections
• Execute accurate drug calculations and nutritional assessments
• Conduct basic physical exams: heart rate, pulse, capillary refill, mucous membranes, temperature, and respiratory effort
• Monitor vital parameters and alert veterinarians to abnormalities
• Respond professionally to client and team member questions
• Collaborate with hospital leadership to promote a positive team culture and continuous improvement

Requirements

• Minimum two years of veterinary hospital experience
• Completed Registered Veterinary Technician Program
• Skills in alternative modalities (preferred)
• Critical thinking and troubleshooting ability (anesthesia machines, monitoring equipment, etc.)
• Confidence placing IV catheters and performing venipuncture
• Strong understanding of vital parameters and normal ranges
• Excellent leadership, customer service, and problem-solving skills
• Exceptional interpersonal and organizational abilities
• Ability to work effectively under pressure and independently
• Motivated to continuously develop your knowledge

Benefits

• $5,000 signing bonus
• Competitive compensation: $28.00–$38.00 per hour (based on experience)
• RRSP employer matching at 5%
• VCA Canada Student Loan RRSP Program
• Paid membership and professional dues
• Annual uniform allowance
• Paid wellness days, sick days, and vacation time
• Continuing education benefits (paid to learn!)
• Employee assistance program
• Access to medical library resources and continuing education mini-courses
• E-tools for meditation, sleep, exercise, and mental focus
• Virtual healthcare access (telemedicine)
• Generous personal pet care discounts
• Shopping discounts and wellness apps
• Referral bonus rewards
• Opportunities to volunteer and give back through VCA community initiatives

About the Practice

Vancouver Animal Wellness Hospital is a full-service small animal practice located in Mount Pleasant, BC, and a proud member of the VCA Canada network. The hospital stands out for its unique integrative medicine approach, combining traditional Western veterinary practices with complementary therapies — acupuncture, veterinary medical manipulation, massage, laser therapy, herbal medicine, and nutrition-based treatments. This philosophy extends to their preventive and wellness-focused care model, emphasizing early detection and lifelong pet health rather than reactive treatment.

The practice operates as a close-knit team that genuinely listens to pets, clients, and colleagues alike. Modern facilities (including in-house diagnostics, digital radiography, and cold laser equipment) meet a calm, wellness-centered environment. As part of VCA Canada, you'll benefit from the personalized feel of a local practice combined with the resources, support, and collaboration of a national organization.