The Arizona Animal Welfare League (AAWL) – the oldest no-kill shelter in Arizona – is seeking a full-time Lead Surgical Technician.
The Lead Surgical Technician is responsible for overseeing daily surgical operations and supporting efficient clinic workflow within AAWL's shelter clinic. This role combines advanced clinical expertise with team coordination, ensuring high-quality patient care, adherence to medical protocols, and consistency in technician performance.
The Lead Surgical Technician serves as a key resource for veterinary staff and provides day-to-day guidance to veterinary technicians and assistants while maintaining an active role in surgical and clinical support. This is a full-time position that is expected to spend approximately 2–3 days per week supporting surgical services, with remaining time dedicated to clinical operations, staff support, training, workflow coordination, and other assigned responsibilities. The position also requires participation in weekend coverage, including at least one weekend shift every other week in either public or shelter medicine.
Responsibilities
Surgical & Clinical Leadership
Lead daily surgical operations, including case flow, patient preparation, and recovery coordination.
Perform advanced anesthesia monitoring, induction, intubation, and recovery support.
Assist veterinarians in high-volume spay/neuter and other surgical procedures.
Ensure surgical protocols, safety standards, and best practices are consistently followed.
Workflow Coordination & Oversight
Oversee daily task completion for veterinary technicians and assistants to ensure efficiency and quality of care.
Assign and adjust workflow based on patient volume and staffing needs.
Troubleshoot operational issues in real time to maintain clinic flow.
Team Support & Accountability
Provide real-time guidance, coaching, and support to veterinary staff.
Partner with the Shelter Clinic Manager to provide input on employee performance and training needs.
Assist with onboarding and training of new technicians and assistants.
Cross-train in CVC operations and provide operational support as needed.
Scheduling & Operational Support
Oversee surgical schedule and capacity for care to ensure efficient use of surgical resources.
Support communication between medical staff and leadership regarding daily surgical operations.
Provide operational input on staffing, workflow, and efficiency within surgical services (non-managerial role).
Inventory & Compliance Support
Assist in monitoring inventory levels and proper use of medical supplies.
Maintain surgical equipment to ensure it is all in working condition
Ensure accurate and complete medical records and compliance with clinic protocols.
Clinic Operations & Collaboration
Maintain cleanliness, organization, and infection control standards across surgical and treatment areas.
Collaborate with veterinarians, clinic leadership, and other departments to support overall clinic goals.
Provide compassionate and professional communication with staff, fosters, and the public.
Qualifications
High school diploma or equivalent required
Certified Veterinary Technician (CVT) strongly preferred
Minimum 3+ years of veterinary technician experience required
Strong proficiency in:
Advanced anesthesia monitoring and surgical support
High-volume spay/neuter procedures
Clinical workflow coordination
Demonstrated ability to lead in a fast-paced environment
Strong problem-solving, organizational, and communication skills
Ability to balance clinical duties with leadership responsibilities
Bilingual (English/Spanish) preferred but not required
To Apply for This Position
Please submit a cover letter, resume and three professional references including their email, phone and relationship to Megan McWherter mmcwherter@aawl.org. Please reference “Lead Surgical Technician” in your email. No phone calls or walk-ins, please.
Employment Details
Pay Range $26-$28 per hour
Generous PTO, sick leave, and 12 paid holidays annually.
100% employer-paid medical and life insurance; dental, vision, and supplemental options available.
Employer-supported professional development.
Employee Assistance Program (EAP).
