How to Be Veterinary Technician Instructor - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

Feb 7, 2020 / 5 Minutes Read / By Albert

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Veterinary Technician Instructors play an important role in the education of future veterinary professionals. By teaching students the skills and knowledge needed to become successful veterinary technicians, they can help ensure that animals receive the best quality of care. In addition, Veterinary Technician Instructors are key to the development of new and improved medical treatments and procedures, which can lead to a greater understanding of animal health and welfare. This, in turn, can result in improved outcomes for both animals and their owners, as well as enhanced career opportunities for Veterinary Technicians.

Steps How to Become

Obtain a Bachelor's Degree. The first step to become a veterinary technician instructor is to obtain a Bachelor's degree in veterinary technology or a related field such as biology or animal science. This degree should include coursework in veterinary anatomy, physiology, nutrition, and pharmacology.
Become Certified. To become a veterinary technician instructor, you must become certified by the National Association of Veterinary Technicians in America (NAVTA). The certification requires applicants to complete an approved Veterinary Technician program, pass a National Veterinary Technician Exam (NVTE), and complete a minimum of 300 hours of work experience.
Obtain Teaching Experience. Once you have obtained your certification, you should gain teaching experience by working as a veterinary technician educator or instructor. This will help you gain the skills necessary to become a successful instructor.
Obtain a Master's Degree in Veterinary Technology. To become a veterinary technician instructor, you must obtain a Master's degree in Veterinary Technology or a related field such as Animal Science or Biology. This degree should include coursework in veterinary anatomy, physiology, nutrition, and pharmacology.
Become Licensed. After obtaining your Master's degree, you must obtain a license from the state in which you plan to teach. Each state has its own requirements for licensure so be sure to research the requirements for the state in which you plan to teach.
Apply for Teaching Positions. After obtaining your license, you can start to apply for teaching positions at veterinary technician programs. Be sure to highlight your experience and credentials when applying for teaching positions.

The demand for veterinary technicians has been increasing rapidly in recent years, resulting in a need for more qualified instructors to teach these aspiring practitioners. To become an ideal and qualified veterinary technician instructor, one must possess the necessary skills and knowledge of veterinary medicine as well as the ability to effectively teach, mentor, and guide students. With proper education and training, a veterinary technician instructor can help students gain the skills and competencies they need to become successful professionals in the field. Furthermore, instructors should be up-to-date with the latest developments in veterinary technology and have a commitment to helping students reach their objectives.

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Job Description

Develop and implement curriculum for veterinary technician students
Teach veterinary technician courses in the classroom, laboratory, and clinical setting
Evaluate student performance and provide guidance and feedback
Track attendance and student progress
Maintain accurate records of student performance
Develop and maintain relationships with local veterinary clinics, organizations, and professionals
Promote continuing education opportunities for veterinary technicians
Participate in professional development activities
Monitor and maintain laboratory environment, equipment, and supplies
Supervise student externships with local clinics
Prepare and administer assessments, quizzes, and final exams
Participate in program and departmental activities

Skills and Competencies to Have

Knowledge of veterinary anatomy and physiology
Understanding of medical terminology
Ability to recognize common animal diseases, illnesses, and conditions
Familiarity with veterinary medical equipment and instruments
Proficiency in performing basic veterinary nursing procedures
Understanding of aseptic technique, sterilization, and disinfection
Ability to safely restrain animals for examination and treatment
Knowledge of pharmaceuticals and their proper administration
Skilled in laboratory testing, such as urinalysis, fecal analysis, etc.
Ability to evaluate and interpret results from laboratory tests
Understanding of preventative health care practices
Ability to work as part of a team in a veterinary clinic
Knowledge of legal and ethical standards in veterinary medicine
Comprehensive understanding of animal behavior and handling techniques
Skills in communication and record-keeping
Proficiency in the use of computer software used in veterinary clinics

Being a successful veterinary technician instructor requires many skills, but perhaps the most important one is the ability to effectively communicate with both animals and people. This includes being able to understand and interpret body language and behavior of both species, having strong verbal communication skills, and being able to provide clear instruction and guidance. Communication is a key factor in establishing trust between the instructor and their students, as well as between the instructor and the animals they are working with.

having a thorough understanding of animal anatomy, physiology, and medical terminology is essential in order to accurately diagnose and treat any medical issues. Lastly, having excellent organizational skills is essential in order to keep track of patient records, medical supplies, and teaching materials. All of these skills must be combined in order to provide the best possible care and instruction to both animals and students.

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Frequent Interview Questions

What experience do you have as a Veterinary Technician Instructor?
What challenges have you faced while teaching Veterinary Technician courses?
What teaching methods do you use to help students understand complex Veterinary Technician concepts?
How do you motivate students to continue learning Veterinary Technician topics?
What strategies do you use to assess student comprehension of Veterinary Technician courses?
What additional resources do you use to supplement your Veterinary Technician curriculum?
How do you manage the classroom to ensure a safe learning environment?
How do you handle disciplinary issues among students?
What initiatives have you implemented to increase student engagement in Veterinary Technician courses?
How do you stay up-to-date on the latest developments in Veterinary Technician education?

Common Tools in Industry

Educational Software. Software designed to provide educational content and materials related to veterinary technician instruction. (eg: VetMedTeam Learning Management System)
Anatomy Models. Three-dimensional models that illustrate the anatomy of animals and are used to teach veterinary technicians. (eg: 3B Scientific Dog Anatomy Model)
Dissection Tools. A variety of tools used to cut and dissect animals during instruction. (eg: Elite Dissection Kit)
Safety Gear. Protective gear such as gloves, goggles and lab coats used to ensure the safety of the instructor and students. (eg: Medline Nitrile Exam Gloves)
Teaching Aids. Visual aids such as charts, posters, and videos used to supplement instruction. (eg: Veterinary Technician Education Charts)
Computer Equipment. Computers, tablets, and other digital devices used to access online materials and assignments. (eg: Apple iPad Pro)

Professional Organizations to Know

Academy of Veterinary Technician Anesthetists
American Association of Veterinary State Boards
American Association of Veterinary Medical Technicians
American Veterinary Medical Association
National Association of Veterinary Technicians in America
NAVTA Veterinary Assistant Program
Veterinary Medical Association Executives
Veterinary Technician Educators Association
Veterinary Technician Specialists
Veterinary Technician Society of Practice Management

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Common Important Terms

Animal Anatomy The study of the structure of animals, including the external and internal organs, tissues, and systems.
Animal Physiology The study of the functioning of animals, including the mechanisms of body systems and their interaction with the environment.
Clinical Veterinary Medicine The application of veterinary science to diagnose and treat diseases in animals.
Pharmacology The study of drugs and their effects on the body.
Pathology The study of disease processes and their causes.
Radiology The use of imaging technologies, such as X-rays, to diagnose and treat diseases in animals.
Laboratory Techniques The use of laboratory tests, such as blood and urine tests, to diagnose and monitor diseases in animals.
Surgery The practice of using medical instruments and techniques to perform surgical procedures on animals.
Nutrition and Diet The study of the nutrients needed by animals and the best diets to provide them.

Frequently Asked Questions

What qualifications are required to become a Veterinary Technician Instructor?

A Veterinary Technician Instructor typically requires a minimum of an associate's degree in veterinary technology, as well as certification and licensure as a Registered Veterinary Technician (RVT). In some states, additional qualifications may be required such as a bachelor's or master's degree in veterinary technology or a related field, or teaching experience in the classroom.

What is the average salary for a Veterinary Technician Instructor?

According to PayScale, the average salary for a Veterinary Technician Instructor is $46,817 per year.

What job duties are associated with the role of a Veterinary Technician Instructor?

As a Veterinary Technician Instructor, duties include designing and developing curriculum, delivering lectures, providing hands-on instruction in labs, grading assignments and exams, and providing guidance and support to students.

Does the role of a Veterinary Technician Instructor require any specialized skills?

Yes, the role of a Veterinary Technician Instructor typically requires specialized knowledge and skills in veterinary technology, instructional design, and effective teaching methods.

How many hours per week do Veterinary Technician Instructors typically work?

The number of hours worked per week can vary depending on the institution and type of program, but typically full-time Veterinary Technician Instructors can expect to work 40 hours per week.