Animal Care Attendant

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Office, Clerical and Technical
Position covered by the Collective Agreement with USW Local 4120

Animal Care Attendant

Ontario Veterinary College, Health Sciences Centre

Temporary full-time from June 2024 to May 2025
Temporary absence of the regular incumbent
Hiring #: 2024-0343

Please read the Application Instructions before applying

Reporting to the Supervisor, Patient Care and Service Delivery, the Animal Care Attendant (ACA) provides husbandry care of patient and teaching animals at the OVC HSC and supports the Clinicians, Registered Veterinary Technicians (RVTs) and students of the Doctor of Veterinary Medicine program.

This position will be primarily assigned to Companion Animal Housing but may be required to support other units in times of operational needs. The Health Sciences Centre (HSC) has a varied patient base, thus ACAs may be assisting with activities relating to companion and large animal species.

Key areas of responsibility include:

  • Assist with restraining, handling and transporting companion and large animal patients, as well as research and teaching animals (Operate truck/trailer/forklift)
  • Clean and sanitize cages, runs, stalls and ancillary equipment according to established procedures
  • Stock areas with appropriate supplies and maintain equipment logs
  • Ensure animal welfare by providing animal care and husbandry including, cleaning, grooming, feeding and exercising patients following safety protocols
  • Monitor changes in animal behaviour/health and report concerns to RVT or Veterinarian
  • Provide administrative support i.e., billing and organizing medical records and assist with the admission and discharge of client animals
  • Maintain confidentiality and adhere to safety regulations at all times

Interested candidates must meet the following requirements:

  • Completion of a 2-year College Diploma in a related program plus 12 months of related experience in a Small/Large Animal Clinic setting, or an equivalent combination of education and experience
  • Animal Care Certificate or additional courses such as Equine Management or Large Animal Husbandry will be given preference
  • Experience and competency in the handling and restraint of large and small animal species, and ability to assist with treatment procedures and techniques
  • Demonstrated proficiency in customer service
  • Excellent communication and organizational skills particularly with respect to dealing with clients
  • Ability to mentor students and contribute to a collaborative team environment
  • Familiarity with common computer software including Hospital Management Information System software is preferred
  • Flexibility in scheduling availability is required. The incumbent will be required to work a variety of shifts including evenings and weekends
  • A valid class G Driver’s license is required.

The successful applicant will be required to provide proof of rabies titre.

Covering Position Number     623-052
Classification                           USW, Local 4120 Salary Band 4*
Normal Hiring Range              $26.17 - $29.24 per hour

*Tentative evaluation; subject to final review.

At the University of Guelph, fostering a culture of inclusion is an institutional imperative. The University invites and encourages applications from all qualified individuals, including from groups that are traditionally underrepresented in employment, who may contribute to further diversification of our Institution.

Posting Date: 2024 06 26
Closing Date: 2024 07 03