Veterinary Assistant

Veterinary Assistant Position at Saltwater Animal Hospital

Saltwater Animal Hospital is dedicated to delivering high-quality, compassionate veterinary medicine to the Des Moines community. We believe in providing a supportive environment where every teammate feels valued and encouraged to deliver exceptional patient care. Reflecting the trust we have built locally, we proudly maintain an excellent 4.5-star Google rating. If you are looking for an opportunity where you can truly focus on complex medical cases and grow professionally, this is where you can do your best work. Joining Saltwater Animal Hospital means becoming part of a larger network that prioritizes your success and professional development. We offer a culture that actively supports continued education and growth opportunities. Our structured approach ensures that you have access to robust resources, including internal specialty consultations and mentorship, which allows you to expand your clinical skill set. We are committed to fostering programs that help every teammate achieve their long-term career goals, whether that means becoming a credentialed technician or moving into a leadership role. The quality of medicine practiced at Saltwater Animal Hospital is broad and challenging, giving you the chance to utilize advanced diagnostic and therapeutic tools daily. Our facility is equipped to handle comprehensive medical needs, including complex surgery and advanced radiology. You will be actively involved in specialized care areas such as cardiology and oncology, and we regularly utilize modalities like ultrasound and laser treatment. Our dedication to a diverse caseload, spanning small animal patients and reptiles, ensures that your days are varied and professionally stimulating, supported by dedicated urgent care capabilities. Des Moines, Washington, offers a highly desirable Puget Sound lifestyle characterized by easy access to the water and stunning views. Situated south of Seattle, you benefit from a smaller-town feel with the cosmopolitan amenities of a major city just a short drive away. Des Moines is known for its marina, charming boardwalks, and active community parks, providing an excellent work-life balance. When your shift ends, you are minutes away from coastal recreation, allowing you and your family to enjoy all the natural beauty that the Pacific Northwest provides.

Your Impact as a Veterinary Assistant

• Provide Essential Patient Care: You'll be a key player in the health of our patients, assisting the medical team with hands-on care and ensuring every animal is treated with compassion and respect.
• Be the Go-To Support for the Medical Team: You'll be the backbone of the clinic, anticipating the needs of veterinarians and technicians to ensure a smooth, efficient, and collaborative workflow.
• Create a Positive Client Experience: You'll help create a seamless visit for our clients by assisting with scheduling, payments, and communications, always with a courteous and informative approach.
• Ensure a Safe and Clean Environment: You'll take pride in maintaining the hospital, performing clinic upkeep and equipment maintenance to uphold our high standards of care.

What You'll Bring to the Team

• A high school diploma or equivalent.
• A calm and efficient approach, with the ability to handle a fast-paced and sometimes stressful environment with composure.
• Confidence and skill in handling pets of all sizes and temperaments.
• Strong organizational and communication skills.
• Proficiency in fundamental veterinary skills ranging from laboratory and pharmacy to nursing and radiology is a strong asset.

Responsibilities and Benefits

How You're Supported

As part of the Mission Pet Health family, you get the stability of a local practice backed by the comprehensive benefits and resources of a larger network. The focus is on investing in you, so you can focus on what you love. Note: Our comprehensive benefits package is designed to support you at every stage. Eligibility for specific benefits varies based on your role and hours worked.

Competitive Compensation

A competitive hourly rate or salary based on your experience and role.

Health & Wellbeing

We offer comprehensive coverage options including medical, dental, and vision insurance, along with access to our Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for all teammates.

Financial Security

Plan for your future with our 401k retirement options and additional financial protection benefits like life insurance and disability coverage.

Commitment to Growth

We support your career goals with opportunities for professional development, including educational assistance for qualified teammates to enroll in AVMA-accredited veterinary technician programs.

The Power of a Network

Join a nationwide community of over 20,000 veterinary professionals who share a passion for collaboration, career growth, and sharing best practices.

Valuable Perks

Enjoy discounted veterinary care for your own pets, access to an online discount platform, and free 24/7 access to doctors through Teladoc.

About Mission Pet Health

Mission Pet Health was founded by veterinarians on the belief that local practices thrive with clinical autonomy, collaboration, and medical excellence. The organization provides world-class support to its 850+ hospital teams on a hyper-local basis so they can focus on what matters most: the medicine, their patients, and their team culture. Learn more at missionpethealth.com.

Driving the award-winning culture are the WAG values Work Together, Amaze, and Grow. Mission Pet Health is veterinarian-led, people-focused, and on a mission to be the best place to work in veterinary medicine. We are proud to be recognized as a 2025 "Most Loved Workplace," ranked #2 in America's Top 100 and #1 in veterinary care.

Reasonable Accommodations: Applicants with disabilities may be entitled to reasonable accommodation. Please contact View email address on click.appcast.io with your request and contact information.

EEO Statement: Mission Pet Health is an equal opportunity employer. We embrace diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.