Veterinary Technician - Anesthesia

About Starch Pet Hospital & University West Pet Clinic

Starch Pet Hospital and University West Pet Clinic are two well‑established full‑service veterinary hospitals in the Des Moines metro area. Starch Pet Hospital was founded in the late 1940’s and moved to a new 4,500‑sq. ft. building in 1996. University West opened its 4,500‑sq. ft. facility in 1976, with extensive remodels completed in 2025.

Both hospitals are equipped with:

• 8 exam rooms, dedicated dental and surgery suites, and large treatment areas with grooming stations
• In‑house laboratory with IDEXX chemistry, blood analyzers, and a Sedivue
• Digital radiology on the Image Value DR30 platform (images in 5 seconds
  )
• Ultrasound and full dental services (exams, radiographs, cleaning, polishing, and extractions)
• Midmark Vet Pro 1000 dental suite and DC digital radiograph system
• Cardell Touch anesthetic monitors
• In‑house pharmacy and multiple compounding partners
• Hours:
  
  Monday‑Friday 7:30 am–6:00 pm and Saturday 8:00 am–12:00 pm
• Full‑time schedule: 4 days per week with a Saturday rotation (approximately one Saturday per month)

• Assist veterinarians in delivering quality care and educating clients
• Provide restraint and support during animal examinations
• Prepare and administer medications, vaccines, serums, and treatments as prescribed
• Perform routine dental cleanings under veterinary direction
• Administer anesthetic and monitor anesthetic responses to adjust dosages
• Obtain and position radiographs with proper technique
• Gather health history, maintain medical charts, and obtain client information
• Conduct laboratory tests (blood, urine, feces) to aid diagnosis and treatment
• Administer emergency first aid, including resuscitation and life‑saving procedures
• Collect, prepare, and label samples for laboratory testing, culture, or microscopic exam
• Provide correct equipment and instruments to veterinarians as needed
• Fill prescriptions, measure medications, and label containers
• Prepare animals for surgery (shaving, IV catheter placement, etc.)
• Maintain clean exam and treatment areas
• Collaborate with veterinary staff to ensure efficient patient flow

• Employee discounts
• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• Other ancillary benefits
• Uniform reimbursement
• Paid time off
• 401 K with company match
• Continuing education benefits
• Student loan refinancing benefits
• Cell phone plan discounts through Verizon and AT&T
• Veterinary Technician Penn Foster sponsorship program

• Seniority Level: Entry‑level
• Employment Type:
  
  Full‑time
• Job Function:
  Health Care Provider
• Industry: Veterinary Services