Veterinary Assistant

Why Join Our Team

Join a nationally recognized leader in veterinary health. Animal Hospital of Soquel is proud to be named one of the Best Veterinary Hospitals in the US for 2026 by Newsweek. We are a premier pet care destination, combining gold-standard medicine with premium lodging and daycare services. Our AAHA-accredited, state-of-the-art facility offers a sophisticated medical environment-including emergency care, surgery, advanced diagnostics, and dentistry-for professionals who are passionate about practicing at the highest level.

Our practice takes pride in fostering a peaceful, healing environment for both pets and people. Our compassionate team extends care beyond our facility by supporting local nonprofits and animal welfare organizations, making a difference for animals throughout the community.

What Sets Us Apart

• Excellence Recognized: Our "Best Veterinary Practice" award and AAHA accredidation reflect our unwavering commitment to quality medicine and veterinary excellence
• Comprehensive Services : Equipped and staffed for everything from preventative care to complex surgeries
• Community Impact : Active support for local shelters and rescue groups
• Calm Environment : Peaceful, healing atmosphere for both patients and clients
• Collaborative Culture : Patient-centered team dynamic with growth opportunities

Located in beautiful Santa Cruz, California, experience the perfect blend of nature and culture with beaches at your doorstep, a thriving art scene, farm-to-table cuisine, and wine country meeting the ocean breeze. Join us to make a difference while living your best life in one of California's most desirable coastal communities.


About This Role

Join our veterinary hospital as a full-time Veterinary Assistant and become a teammate of our animal healthcare team! This position offers the perfect opportunity to make a meaningful difference in animals' lives while building a strong foundation in veterinary medicine. If you have a genuine love for animals and a desire to grow in the veterinary field, we'd love to welcome you to our team!


What Success Looks Like

• Compassionate Care Provider: Handle, restrain, comfort, and reassure animals of all temperaments.
• Medical Support Expert: Assist with treatments, diagnostics, and surgeries; monitor patients; maintain records.
• Hospital Caretaker: Maintain cleanliness, organize facilities, and ensure a sanitary environment.
• Communication Liaison: Relay patient updates and ensure care continuity among the team.
• Client Educator: Communicate care plans, instruct home treatment to clients, and guide medication use.

What Makes You a Great Fit

• Strong animal handling skills with the ability to safely restrain patients of all temperaments for examinations and procedures
• Knowledge of diagnostic imaging positioning and laboratory diagnostics
• Proficiency with venipuncture including IV catheter placement and blood draws
• Proficiency with anesthesia monitoring
• Proficiency with scaling, polishing, and taking dental x-rays during dentals
• Experienced with medication administration (PO, SQ, IM, and IV) and vaccine administration
• Knowledge of prescription medications to effectively instruct clients with home care instructions
• Excellent attention to detail in monitoring patients and maintaining medical records
• Effective communication skills with team members and clients

Education & Experience

• High School diploma or equivalent required
• Have at least three years of experience in an animal hospital completing the details listed above
• Anesthesia monitoring and dentistry experience required
• Proficient computer skills for maintaining electronic medical records
• Associate degree in veterinary technology or continuing education in veterinary science a plus

How We'll Support You

• Competitive Pay: $21.00 - $28.00 per hour, commensurate with experience
• Comprehensive Benefits: Health, dental, and vision insurance, plus 401k with company match
• Growth Opportunities: Continuing education and professional development support
• Work-Life Balance: PTO and mental health assistance
• Perks: Employee discounts on services, a scrub allowance, and a referral program
• A Welcoming Team: We're a hard-working and collaborative team where your voice matters!

EEO Statement

We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.