Lead Surgery Technician – Job Description
Position Title: Lead Surgery Technician
Department: Surgery / Medical
Reports To: Practice Manager and Veterinarian
Employment Type: Full-Time
Position Summary
The Lead Surgery Technician is responsible for overseeing the daily operations of the surgical department, ensuring excellence in patient care, staff training, client communication, and surgical suite management. This role requires advanced technical skills, strong leadership, and the ability to coordinate between veterinarians, support staff, and clients. The Lead Surgery Technician will serve as the primary technician for surgical procedures, while also supervising and mentoring other team members in the department.
Key Responsibilities
- Surgical Support & Patient Care
- Prepare patients for surgery (IV catheter placement, pre-op bloodwork, anesthesia induction, monitoring, post-op recovery).
- Serve as the primary anesthetist during procedures, ensuring accurate monitoring and record-keeping.
- Anticipate the surgeon’s needs during procedures and assist directly when necessary.
- Ensure patient safety and comfort at all times, from admission to discharge.
- Maintain detailed and accurate patient records within the EMR system.
Dispense and log controlled drugs
Client Communication & Estimates
- Meet with clients to discuss surgical procedures, pre-op requirements, and post-op expectations.
- Prepare and review surgical estimates with clients, ensuring transparency and understanding of services and costs.
- Answer client questions regarding anesthesia, pain management, recovery, and home care instructions.
- Provide discharge instructions post-surgery, ensuring clients feel supported and informed.
Inventory & Supply Management
- Oversee ordering and stocking of all surgical and anesthesia supplies (sutures, sterile packs, instruments, medications, etc.).
- Maintain an organized, fully stocked, and sterile surgical suite.
- Track supply usage and collaborate with management on cost-control measures.
- Ensure proper instrument cleaning, sterilization, and pack preparation.
Cleanliness & Compliance
- Ensure that all surgical areas meet or exceed OSHA and AAHA standards for cleanliness and safety.
- Develop and enforce protocols for sterilization, disinfection, and equipment maintenance.
- Maintain logs for surgical equipment checks and autoclave performance.
Leadership & Training
- Act as the department lead for the surgical team.
- Train, mentor, and evaluate new surgical technicians and assistants.
- Lead continuing education initiatives within the surgery department.
- Serve as the point of contact between veterinarians and technicians for surgical protocols and workflow improvements.
- Support teamwork by fostering a culture of communication, accountability, and excellence in patient care.
Skills & Qualifications
- Certified/Registered Veterinary Technician (CVT/RVT/LVT) preferred; extensive surgical experience required if not credentialed.
- Minimum 3–5 years of experience in veterinary surgery and anesthesia monitoring.
- Strong leadership and communication skills.
- Proficiency with EMR systems and surgical scheduling/estimate preparation.
- Excellent organizational skills with attention to detail.
- Ability to remain calm and focused in high-stress surgical situations.
Physical Requirements
- Ability to lift and restrain animals up to 50 lbs.
- Ability to stand for extended periods and perform repetitive movements.
- Manual dexterity for handling delicate surgical instruments.
Performance Metrics
- Accuracy and clarity of surgical estimates and client communications.
- Surgical suite cleanliness, organization, and inventory control.
- Patient safety and anesthesia monitoring outcomes.
- Successful training and performance of surgical technicians under supervision.
- Client satisfaction and positive feedback related to surgical services.
Compensation & Benefits
- Competitive hourly pay based on experience.
- Training and continuing growth opportunities.
- PTO, Dental and vision, uniform allowance
- Pet Care Bonus
- Paid Holidays if full time
- Pet care discounts.
- A fun, supportive team environment where your work truly makes a difference.