Veterinary Assistant - Surgery

Veterinary Assistant VCA California Veterinary Specialist is seeking a Veterinary Assistant for our Surgery Department in the Pack and Prep Area. Location: 2310 Faraday Ave, Carlsbad, CA 92008 Schedule: Full-time, 4X10-hour days, alternative work week Why We Love VCA CVS Carlsbad: Small hospital feel with big company support Competitive compensation ($18-$20, hourly), shift differential: $3/hour Generous employee pet discounts Flexible schedules Great coastal community location close to the beach, food options, fitness centers, and shopping Monthly hospital-wide activities & games, raffles, with awesome prizes Access to "Perkspot"- receive coupons and discounts for anything you can imagine We value your voice and regularly implement suggested changes from our suggestion box Join various hospital committees or VCA Diversity Resource Groups to further enrich your experience and involvement in the hospital & company In-hospital, fresh food micro-market always stocked with an ever-changing array of food and drink options Sweet & Savory Stop - get your fix with international snacks and treats Referral rewards - tell your friends why they should come work for here too, and if they are hired, you can receive a referral bonus if eligible. Supportive, multi-faceted, educational training program We are focused on your career growth; we empower you with all the knowledge and skills you need to be successful Opportunities to get out into the community and participate in local events Something new every day - you'll never be bored Health, vision, and dental insurance 401K w/ company match HSA/FSA options Paid holidays Vacation & sick time off Key Responsibilities: Assist veterinarians and veterinary technicians in all aspects of patient care, including emergency procedures and specialty treatments. Prepare and maintain examination and treatment areas, ensuring they are clean and stocked. Perform routine tasks such as taking patient histories, administering medications, and preparing samples for laboratory tests. Monitor patients before, during, and after procedures, ensuring their comfort and well-being. Educate pet owners on post-procedure care and provide them with detailed instructions and support. Handle medical and surgical instruments with care, adhering to sterilization and safety protocols. Collaborate with team members to manage and prioritize a busy caseload efficiently. Qualifications: Previous experience as a Veterinary Assistant or in a related field is required. Strong knowledge of veterinary procedures, medical terminology, and animal care. Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written, with the ability to interact compassionately with pet owners and team members. Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, high-pressure environment while maintaining a positive attitude. Attention to detail and strong organizational skills. Ability to lift and carry heavy loads and stand for extended periods. Flexibility to work various shifts, including nights, weekends, and holidays, as needed.