Veterinary Assistant, Surgery

Veterinary Surgery Assistant

Are you eager to make a meaningful impact in veterinary care? Do you excel in dynamic, fast-paced settings where every day brings something new? If you're a highly organized, compassionate, and energetic team player with strong collaboration skills, Gulf Coast Veterinary Specialists (GCVS) is looking for you to join our team as a Veterinary Surgery Assistant. Gulf Coast Veterinary Specialists (GCVS) is a leader in specialized care for companion animals, known for excellence and collaboration with the veterinary community. Our state-of-the-art facility and expert team provide top-tier care across a range of specialties, including emergency, cardiology, oncology, neurology, surgery, and more. Join us and make a difference in the lives of pets and their families every day.

Position Overview

Surgery Assistants are under the direct guidance and supervision of the Surgery Technical Staff Supervisors, surgeons and managers. Occupants of this position are required to assist the practitioners to the fullest possible extent, to help improve the quality of care given to the patients of Gulf Coast Veterinary Specialists and to aid the surgeons in achieving greater efficiency by relieving them of technical work and administrative detail.

Compensation

$19 - $24/hr, based on experience

Schedule

Full Time

• 5 Days per week
• Monday - Friday
• 10am-7pm
• Rotating Saturdays required

Key Responsibilities

• Maintain operating room cleanliness, equipment, anesthesia machines, and monitors; assist with post-procedure turnover and sterilization workflows
• Assist with patient care including restraint, grooming, discharge preparation, ICU/kennel support, and client service assistance
• Perform preliminary diagnostics and lab work (IV catheters, vitals, ECGs, blood/urine collection, in-house lab testing)
• Prepare, calculate, document, and administer medications, CRIs, blood transfusions, and controlled substances per doctor/LVT direction
• Assist with anesthetic induction, monitoring, pain management, and recovery under supervision
• Provide surgical support including site prep, sterile technique, scrubbing, circulating, instrumentation handling, and minor procedures
• Accurately document anesthesia, surgical procedures, treatments, diagnostics, and invoicing codes
• Handle reference lab submissions (histopathology, cultures, uroliths) following proper protocols
• Clean, wrap, sterilize, and organize surgical instruments and suites
• Operate diagnostic imaging equipment (radiography, CT, MRI) and follow all safety standards
• Perform advanced technical procedures as trained (arterial lines, nerve blocks, epidurals)

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Experience: Previous experience in a surgical or specialty veterinary setting is preferred. Minimum of 2-year experience in general or specialty veterinary service.
• Technical Skills: Strong technical skills are essential, including:
• Venipuncture and IV catheter placement
• Intubation/Extubation experience
• Surgical preparation and assistance
• Proficiency in diagnostic imaging and laboratory procedures
• Experience handling and processing surgical instruments, including specialized equipment
• Adapts positively to the ever-changing healthcare environment by supporting technology and process changes.
• Must possess excellent listening and interpersonal skills and problem-solving methods.
• Fluent English skills (speaking & reading) are required for the role; fluency in multiple languages a plus!

Why GCVS?

• Make a meaningful impact by being an advocate for pets and their families.
• Work alongside a compassionate and talented team dedicated to excellence in veterinary care.
• Enjoy a dynamic, fast-paced environment that keeps you engaged and challenged.
• Be part of a workplace that values your contributions and supports your growth.
• Ongoing opportunities for continued education such as lunch and learns hosted by various vendors and entities.

Benefits Include:

• 401(k) with matching
• Health, Dental, and Vision insurance
• Health Savings Account (HSA) / Flexible Spending Account (FSA)
• Life and Disability insurance
• Paid Time Off (PTO) and Holidays
• Employee Assistance Program and Discounts (including Pet Discount)
• Professional development and tuition assistance
• Uniform stipend
• Retirement plan

If you're ready to take on a rewarding role that combines communication, organization, and compassion, we'd love to hear from you. Apply today and become an essential part of a team where your efforts truly make a differenceone pet and one family at a time!