VETERINARY ASSISTANT II

Veterinary Assistant II (Spay/Neuter-Focused)

The Veterinary Assistant II serves as an anesthesia and surgical support lead within a high-quality, high-volume spay/neuter clinic. This role is responsible for anesthesia induction, monitoring, and patient safety throughout the perioperative period, while also supporting surgical efficiency and mentoring junior staff.

Essential Job Functions

Anesthesia & Patient Safety (Primary Role)

• Perform anesthesia induction, intubation, and maintenance in accordance with HQHVSN protocols
• Calculate and administer anesthetic drugs accurately
• Continuously monitor anesthesia using appropriate parameters (HR, RR, SpO2, temperature, reflexes)
• Identify and respond to anesthetic complications quickly and appropriately
• Oversee safe extubation and recovery readiness

Surgical Flow & Efficiency

• Coordinate with surgical team to maintain consistent, efficient case flow
• Prepare patients for surgery, including catheter placement and pre-medication
• Ensure all equipment is functional and ready prior to procedures

Technical Skills

• Perform venipuncture and IV catheter placement as required
• Administer SQ, IM, and IV medications
• Maintain accurate anesthesia and surgical records

Recovery Oversight

• Supervise recovery area and guide Veterinary Assistant I staff
• Ensure proper pain management, temperature support, and monitoring protocols are followed
• Triage and escalate post-operative concerns

Training & Leadership

• Train and mentor Veterinary Assistant I staff on Anti-Cruelty protocols and workflow
• Reinforce best practices in anesthesia, patient handling, and efficiency
• Support a culture of safety, teamwork, and continuous improvement

Instrument & Facility Support

• Ensure instrument flow supports surgical volume (in coordination with VA I team)
• Maintain anesthesia equipment, including daily checks and troubleshooting

Qualifications

• Strong proficiency in anesthesia, including induction, monitoring, and recovery
• Advanced animal handling skills, including fractious or high-stress patients
• Ability to multitask and make critical decisions in a fast-paced surgical setting
• Strong leadership and training abilities

Education/Experience

• High school diploma or GED required
• 3+ years veterinary assistant experience required
• Prior HQHVSN or high-volume surgical experience strongly preferred