Veterinary Technician Student Extern

Altoona Veterinary Hospital is where our commitment to excellence meets genuine community compassion. We are proud to operate as an AAHA-Accredited practice, reflecting our deep dedication to upholding the highest standards of veterinary care. The trust the community places in us is evident in our excellent 4.7-star Google rating, demonstrating strong loyalty and confidence from our clients. We invite you to join a dedicated team focused on continuous learning and exemplary small animal medicine, where you can immediately step in and do your best work every day.

As a teammate at Altoona Veterinary Hospital, you become part of a supportive network dedicated to your professional success. We recognize that career growth is paramount, which is why we offer robust educational programs designed to help you achieve your specific professional goals. Whether you aspire to become a credentialed technician, advance into leadership, or specialize your clinical skill set, we have the resources and mentorship available.

We ensure that every teammate has the stability and support needed to grow their career long-term within a culture that values collaboration and personal achievement.

Providing outstanding small animal care is our primary clinical focus, and we equip our hospital with the tools necessary to deliver exceptional patient outcomes. Our veterinarians have access to internal specialty consultations, ensuring that complex cases receive expert input without delay. We prioritize protocols that enhance patient safety and comfort, operating within a culture that emphasizes medical learning and continuous quality improvement.

We want you to feel empowered to utilize cutting‑edge techniques and make the best clinical decisions for the animals entrusted to our care.

Located in Altoona, Iowa, this setting offers an appealing balance of community connection and easy access to local amenities. Altoona provides a welcoming environment for establishing roots, offering a friendly, supportive atmosphere while remaining easily accessible to larger metro resources. It is an ideal location if you are seeking a relaxed quality of life in a community where you can focus on building a rewarding, long‑term veterinary career.

Job Description

This externship is your opportunity to gain invaluable hands‑on experience in a fast‑paced, professional veterinary setting. You'll work side‑by‑side with experienced veterinarians and credentialed technicians, applying your classroom knowledge to real‑world cases and building the foundation for a successful career.

• Gain Practical Clinical
  
  Experience:
  
  You’ll actively assist the medical team with patient care, observe a variety of procedures, and perform technical tasks under direct supervision.
• Learn from Experienced Mentors: You’ll collaborate with and learn from dedicated veterinarians, technicians, and support teammates, receiving guidance and feedback to enhance your skills.
• Understand Hospital Operations: You’ll support daily clinical functions, including patient intake and discharge processes, contributing to the smooth operation of the hospital.
• Develop Your Professional
  
  Skills:
  
  You’ll practice effective communication with team members, learn clinical protocols, and build confidence in a dynamic veterinary environment.

• Current enrollment in an AVMA CVTEA‑accredited Veterinary Technician/Nursing program.
• Eligibility to participate in an externship as required by your academic program.
• A strong desire to learn, a positive attitude, and a willingness to adapt in a clinical setting.
• Good communication and teamwork skills.
• The physical ability to stand for extended periods, lift and restrain animals, and handle clinical instruments.