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Veterinary Assistant I (Spay/Neuter-Focused)
POSITION OVERVIEW
The Veterinary Assistant I plays a critical role in supporting a high-quality, high-volume spay/neuter clinic. This position is responsible for maintaining efficient surgical flow through patient preparation, instrument sterilization, and post-operative recovery support. The Veterinary Assistant I works under the direction of the Veterinary Assistant II, and/or Veterinary Technician, and Veterinarian to ensure safe, humane, and efficient surgical care.
ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS
Patient Flow & Preparation
- Prepare animals for surgery, including weighing, physical exam support, and surgical day intake protocols
- Accurately identify patients and ensure proper documentation and cage cards
- Perform pre-operative tasks including shaving, vaccinations (if applicable), and pre-medication support
- Efficiently move patients through the surgical pipeline while minimizing stress and handling time
Surgical Support
- Assist with surgical suite setup and breakdown between procedures
- Maintain sterile instrument packs and assist with aseptic technique maintenance
- Support surgeon and surgery team as directed to maintain efficiency
Anesthesia Support
- Assist with anesthesia induction and intubation under supervision
- Prepare anesthetic equipment and monitor tools prior to procedures
- Observe patients and communicate concerns to anesthesia lead
Post-Operative Recovery
- Monitor patients during recovery, including temperature support and extubation assistance
- Recognize and report abnormal recovery signs (e.g., prolonged recovery, bleeding, respiratory concerns)
- Ensure patients are safely returned to appropriate housing
Instrument Processing & Sanitation
- Clean, disinfect, and sterilize surgical instruments following Anti-Cruelty protocols
- Maintain surgical packs and ensure adequate inventory for daily volume
- Uphold strict cleaning and disinfection standards in all clinical areas
QUALIFICATIONS
- Uphold the PETS Work Culture Agreement through Praise, Engagement, Trust, and Support.
- Working knowledge of animal handling and basic veterinary procedures
- Understanding of sterile technique and infection control principles (or willingness to learn)
- Ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced, high-volume surgical environment
- Strong attention to detail and commitment to patient safety
- Due to nature of shelter work, may be exposed to deceased, fractious, or aggressive animals; hostile or irate persons; zoonotic or other diseases; unpleasant noises, odors, or sights; and extreme temperatures.
EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE
- High school diploma or GED required
- 1+ year veterinary or animal care experience preferred (shelter or clinic)
ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS
- Available to work an extended schedule, including weekends, early mornings, evenings and holidays according to demands of the role and tasks.
- The job description is a guide to the essential functions of the job, not an all-inclusive list of responsibilities, qualifications, physical demands, and work environment conditions. Job descriptions are reviewed and revised to meet the changing needs of the organization at the sole discretion of management.
- Anti-Cruelty is an equal opportunity employer
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