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.