Registered Veterinary Technician, ICU

About the Role

Alta Vista Specialty & Emergency is looking for a dedicated Registered Veterinary Technician to join the ICU team — the heart of patient care at this busy specialty and emergency hospital. You'll work alongside board-certified specialists in surgery, behaviour, anesthesia, dentistry, critical care, internal medicine, and ophthalmology, gaining hands-on experience in a truly collaborative environment. While part of a large VCA network, this 160-person team maintains that local community feel with genuine mentorship and ongoing training opportunities.

The ICU role centres on hospitalized patient care — these team members are described as the "superstars of all things patient care related," ensuring every pet receives compassionate treatment and their families feel supported throughout their stay. Shifts run 10–12 hours, rotating between daytime, evening, and overnight rotations to create a balanced workload that works for the whole team.

Key Responsibilities

• Prepare patients for surgery, assist during procedures, and provide attentive post-operative recovery care
• Maintain detailed, accurate patient records and medical documentation
• Deliver compassionate, hands-on care to hospitalized patients and communicate warmly with pet parents
• Juggle multiple priorities simultaneously while staying organised and focused
• Troubleshoot problems with a solutions-focused mindset, asking clarifying questions to support the team
• Collaborate effectively with colleagues and specialists, contributing to a supportive team culture
• Continuously expand your knowledge and skills within the role

Requirements

• Completion of a Veterinary Technician program
• Valid RVT registration in Ontario
• Experience in surgical preparation, assisting, and patient recovery
• Ability to maintain detailed and accurate patient records
• Strong interpersonal skills with colleagues and pet families
• Capability to manage multiple priorities and problem-solve effectively
• Passion for learning and a genuine love for companion animals

Benefits

• RRSP Employer 5% Match Program
• 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 (2,000+ journals, 600+ textbooks, research resources)
• Generous personal pet care discounts
• E-tools for meditation, sleep, exercise, and focus
• Access to mini-courses and wellness apps
• Shopping discounts and additional wellness perks
• Referral Bonus Rewards
• Opportunities to volunteer with VCA community initiatives

About the Practice

Alta Vista Specialty & Emergency is a 160-person specialty and emergency hospital in Ottawa with 30+ veterinarians on staff. The practice offers on-site advanced diagnostics including MRI, Fluoroscopy, and CT, along with board-certified specialists in multiple disciplines. As part of VCA Canada's national network, the hospital combines the resources and career opportunities of a large organisation with the collaborative, community-focused culture of a local practice.

VCA Canada is committed to creating an inclusive and diverse workplace where all team members can thrive. The organisation values wellness, professional development, and giving back to the communities it serves.