ER Veterinary Assistant

Veterinary Assistant

Are you passionate about animals and thrive in fast-paced, high-stakes environments? Do you want to make a real impact in the lives of pets and their families during their most critical moments? If so, we'd love to meet you!

At Pet Emergency Clinic & Referral Center, we deliver exceptional, lifesaving care to pets across Spokane and the surrounding areas, 24/7. We are seeking an experienced Veterinary Assistant to join our emergency care team and help us continue providing the gold standard in veterinary medicine.

About the Role

As a Veterinary Assistant in our Emergency Department, you'll be at the heart of fast-paced, high-pressure situations, helping stabilize patients, support veterinarians and technicians, and provide compassionate care to pets and their families.

This is not an entry-level position. Due to the nature of emergency medicine, applicants must have a minimum of two (2) years of recent experience working as a Veterinary Assistant in a veterinary hospital setting to be considered. Candidates who do not meet this experience requirement will not be eligible for the position.

The ideal candidate is confident in patient handling and restraint, familiar with veterinary terminology and procedures, capable of multitasking in a fast-paced environment, and committed to providing exceptional patient care.

Why Join Us?

• Make an Impact: Play a vital role in saving lives and supporting families during emergencies.
• Grow Your Skills: Learn from experienced doctors and technicians in a collaborative and supportive environment.
• Team-Focused Culture: Be part of a resilient, compassionate crew that works hard and has fun doing it.
• Locally Owned: Join a team that is deeply invested in the Spokane veterinary community.

Competitive Pay & Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision coverage
• Paid time off and holiday pay
• 401(k) with company match
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Night differential: +$2/hour (8:00 PM - 8:00 AM)
• Weekend differential: +$1/hour (10:00 PM Friday - 10:00 PM Sunday)

Key Responsibilities

• Patient Care: Assist veterinarians and technicians in handling, monitoring, and stabilizing emergency patients.
• Triage Support: Assist in evaluating incoming patients and prioritizing care based on urgency.
• Procedure Preparation: Prepare treatment and surgical areas, maintain sterile environments, and assist with emergency procedures.
• Client Communication: Provide clear, compassionate communication to pet owners during stressful situations.
• Medical Documentation: Maintain accurate medical records and treatment logs.
• Inventory Management: Monitor and restock emergency supplies and medications.
• Prescription Support: Assist with medication preparation and prescription fulfillment.

Required Qualifications

Minimum Requirements

• At least two (2) years of experience working as a Veterinary Assistant in a veterinary hospital setting required.
• Experience in emergency, specialty, or high-volume general practice preferred.
• Strong animal handling and restraint skills.
• Ability to remain calm and organized in stressful and emotionally charged situations.
• Excellent communication and teamwork skills.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to patient care.
• Availability to work evenings, weekends, holidays, and overnight shifts as needed.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds, with assistance as needed.
• Ability to stand, walk, stoop, bend, twist, kneel, crouch, and climb for extended periods.
• Comfortable working in a fast-paced, emotionally demanding environment.
• Ability to safely and effectively restrain animals of all sizes.
• Ability to grasp, hold, and manipulate various tools, equipment, and supplies.
• Sufficient visual acuity to observe, assess, and evaluate patients and surroundings, including close, distance, color, and peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus.
• Potential exposure to anesthetic gases.
• Potential exposure to zoonotic diseases and other occupational hazards inherent to veterinary medicine.

Ready to Apply? If you are an experienced Veterinary Assistant with at least two years of veterinary assistant experience and are looking for an opportunity to make a difference in emergency medicine, we'd love to hear from you. Join our team and help provide lifesaving care to pets when they need it most.