Veterinary Assistant

Veterinary Assistant

The Veterinary Assistant is a key member of the veterinary team responsible for assisting veterinarians and veterinary technicians in delivering high-quality care to pets. This role involves patient handling, client communication, medical support, and maintaining a clean and organized hospital.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist veterinarians and veterinary technicians during examinations, treatments, and surgical procedures.
• Safely restrain and handle pets during examinations and procedures.
• Prepare exam rooms, treatment areas, and surgical equipment.
• Monitor hospitalized and recovering pets as permitted by state regulations.
• Collect patient histories and maintain accurate medical records.
• Perform laboratory sample collection and assist with diagnostic testing when authorized.
• Administer medications and treatments under veterinary supervision and within state practice laws.
• Educate pet owners about preventive care, wellness plans, vaccinations, nutrition, and home care.
• Maintain cleanliness and organization of exam rooms, treatment areas, and laboratory spaces.
• Ensure hospital safety protocols and infection control standards are followed.
• Assist with inventory management and stocking medical supplies.
• Provide compassionate customer service to clients and their pets.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent preferred.
• Completion of a veterinary assistant program (such as a NAVTA-approved program) or equivalent education and experience preferred.
• Previous experience in a veterinary clinic or animal care setting is preferred.
• Strong communication and customer service skills.
• Ability to safely handle animals of various sizes and temperaments.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment while maintaining attention to detail.
• Basic computer and medical record documentation skills.

Skills

• Animal restraint and handling
• Teamwork and collaboration
• Client communication
• Organization and multitasking
• Compassion and empathy
• Time management
• Knowledge of veterinary terminology and procedures
• Basic laboratory and patient care skills

Work Environment

• Standing and walking for extended periods.
• Lifting pets and equipment (often up to 4050 pounds, with assistance for heavier animals).
• Exposure to animal odors, cleaning chemicals, bodily fluids, and occasional animal bites or scratches.
• Flexible schedule, including evenings, weekends, and holidays as needed.

The pay range for this role is

$15.19 - $19.41 Hourly

The pay range listed reflects a general hiring range for the area, with the specific rate determined based on the candidate's experience, skill level, and education, and may vary depending on location or applicable minimum wage laws.

Here at Banfield, we prioritize your well-being and professional growth by offering a comprehensive total rewards package, including health, wellness, and financial support for you, your family, and even your pets.

• Comprehensive Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance: Enjoy peace of mind knowing your health and wellness are our top priorities. We've got your essential medical, dental, and vision care covered.

• Generous Retirement Plans (401(k) and Roth): Invest in your future and enjoy a generous company match to help you build a secure financial future.

• Best-in-Class Student Debt Relief Program (for Full-Time DVMs): At Banfield, we understand the significant financial burden of student debt on veterinarians. We are committed to supporting our veterinary professionals and believe that addressing student debt is crucial for the long-term health of the veterinary profession.

• Paid Time Off and Holidays: Take a break, recharge your wellbeing, and celebrate days of personal significance with paid time off and holidays.

• Top-Tier Mental Health and Wellbeing Resources: Your mental health matters. Access our industry-leading resources, including free coaching and counseling sessions, to support your overall wellbeing and help you thrive.

• Associate Life Insurance (company-paid) & Supplemental Life Insurance: Protect your loved ones with our company-paid Associate life insurance and have the option to purchase additional coverage for extra peace of mind.

• Company-Paid Short- and Long-Term Disability: Feel secure knowing that if you face a temporary or long-term disability, you'll have financial protection.

• Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA): Save on healthcare and dependent care expenses by setting aside pre-tax money. It's a smart way to manage your budget and take care of your needs.

• Health Savings Account (HSA): Make the most of your healthcare dollars with a tax-advantaged HSA, allowing you to pay for medical expenses with pre-tax funds.

• Paid Parental Leave: We support growing families with paid parental leave for both birth and adoption, giving you precious time to bond with your new family addition.

• Continuing Education Allowance (for Eligible Positions): Banfield is committed to supporting the professional growth of our Associates. This allowance provides financial assistance to pursue continuing education opportunities.

• Back-Up Child and Elder Care & Family Support Resources: When life's unpredictable moments arise, our backup care and family support benefits provide the help you need to keep things running smoothly.

• Fertility and Family Building Support: We're here for you on your journey to parenthood, offering comprehensive support for fertility treatments and family-building options.

• Digital Exercise Therapy: Stay active and healthy with our digital exercise therapy program, designed to fit your busy lifestyle, and keep you moving.

• Voluntary Protection Benefits: Get peace of mind with protection against the unexpected. You can purchase coverage to help support you financially during hospital stays, critical illness, and accidents.

• Legal Plan: Gain extra peace of mind with our affordable and accessible legal plan which includes coverage for a wide range of legal needs.

• Identity Protection: Identity Protection helps safeguard your personal information by alerting you to suspicious activity and providing support if your information is stolen.

• Commuter Benefits: Say goodbye to commuting stress with our commuter benefits, making your daily journey more convenient and cost-effective.

• Three Free Optimum Wellness Plans for Pets: We care about your furry friends too! Enjoy three free wellness plans to ensure your pets receive the best preventive and general care.

• Exclusive Discounts: Unlock a world of savings with our wide variety of exclusive discounts on products and services, making life more affordable and enjoyable.

Benefits eligibility is based on employment status. Full-time (FT) Associates are eligible for all benefit programs (Student Debt Program available for FT DVMs only); Part-time Associates are eligible for those benefits with an asterisk (*).