Veterinary Assistant

Veterinary AssistantReporting Structure: The Veterinary Assistant is under the direct guidance and supervision of the Veterinary Technician Team Leader and veterinarians who will indicate general assignments, limitations, and priorities. Recurring assignments are performed independently. Deviations or unfamiliar situations are referred to the supervisor. Completed work is reviewed for technical accuracy and compliance with established procedures.Technician Objectives: The Veterinary Assistant (no credentials) assists the doctors to the fullest possible extent, to help improve the quality of care given to the patients, and to aid the doctors in achieving greater efficiency by relieving them of technical work.The Veterinary Technician/Assistant assists in multiple procedures providing care for animals including physical examinations, dental procedures, surgeries, immunizations, euthanasia, and client education, marketing, and inventory maintenance. This position requires a working knowledge of pharmaceutical drugs, common diseases, their symptoms, means of transmission, treatment, and prevention, and other basic preventative health care recommendations.Position Type and Expected Hours of Work:Full or Part-Time8-12 hours shifts, up to 40 hours per weekWeekend, evening, and holiday shifts requiredOvertime may be requiredEducation and Experience:High School Diploma or equivalent, plus a minimum of 2 years of on-the-job training at a veterinary practiceEssential Responsibilities:Communicate with and educate pet owners about the medications/treatments their pet is receivingObtain and record patient historiesCollect specimens and perform routine laboratory proceduresDispense and administer medications and treatments as prescribed by veterinariansAdminister fluids and blood products as prescribed by the veterinarianAdminister and monitor anesthesia under the direction of a veterinarianProvide specialized nursing care for injured or ill animalsPrepare patients, instruments, and equipment for surgeryClean, maintain, and sterilize instruments, equipment, and materialsKeeping hospital treatment and patient areas clean; includes trash, floors, bedding, laundry, etc.Keeping treatment areas stocked with supplies as neededAssure that hospital equipment is in good working conditionTake and process radiographsMaintain accessible inventory of pharmaceuticals, equipment, and suppliesParticipate in inventory monitoring of hospital supplies and drugs by alerting the facilities/inventory team about needsKnowledgeable regarding related federal and state animal health laws and regulations including OSHA and DEAInform the veterinary practice or operations manager(s) of any regulatory issues observedEnsure that monitoring and support equipment such as anesthetic machines, cardiac monitors, oxygen kennels, scopes, and breathing apparatus are in good working conditionMay be required to cross-train to assist front desk during peak hours or in the event of staff shortageOther Duties as directedProhibited Tasks:Diagnosis and PrognosisPrescribe medicationsPerform surgery, including dental extractionCompetency:Able to communicate professionally with coworkers of all levels and in all areas of hospitalPossession of strong organizational skillsKnowledge of the spelling and meaning of commonly used terminology of veterinary medicine to accurately record results of tests and treatment plan in patient chart in PIMSCritical thinkingAbility to multi-taskStrong communication and motivation skills. Effective problem solvingRequires active listening skillsRequires telephone conversationsRequires basic computer skills, including use of email for hospital communicationsRequires face-to-face discussions with individuals or team members across all areas of hospitalAbility to work independently on assigned tasks and accept direction on given assignmentsWorking Environment Characteristics:Ability to stand, walk, kneel, crouch, and climb as well as manipulate (lift, carry, and move) up to 50 poundsRequires good hand-eye coordination and dexterityUse of computer software and keyboardingAbility to carry out instructions furnished in written, oral, or diagram formExposure to pet odors and allergens/danderOccasional exposure to airborne particles from chemicals related to animal care and office equipmentModerate noise levels are presentThe physical demands and work environment characteristics described here are representative of those that must be met by an associate to successfully perform the essential functions of this position. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.The above statements are meant as a representative guideline for this position and are not to be construed as an exhaustive list of all working requirements or conditions.At AmeriVet, we're committed to your growth, development, well-being, and success. We empower team members with the resources, support, and opportunities needed to thrive in their careers and make a lasting impact in our communities.Here's what you can expect when you join our team:Tailored development programs, mentorship, and career pathing to help you achieve your unique goals.Competitive pay, performance bonuses, 401(k) matching, and student loan assistance to foster your financial well-being.Health, dental, vision, life insurance, and mental health resources to support your overall well-being.Generous paid time off and holidays, because your personal time matters.A supportive, collaborative environment where everyone feels a sense of belonging.Please note: Any Benefits listed above apply to full-time employees.At AmeriVet, your unique skills and passion are celebrated, and every team member has the tools to thrive. Our people-focused approach is centered on helping you grow in your career while making a meaningful impact on the communities we serve.