Veterinary Technician Assistant, Surgery - Tri Lake Animal Hospital & Referral Centre

VCA Canada; Kelowna; On-site; CAD 30,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A veterinary services provider in Lake Country, BC is seeking a full-time Veterinary Technician Assistant to join their referral surgery team. The role focuses on assisting with surgical patient care, including pre-operative and post-operative tasks. Candidates should possess prior experience in general practice veterinary surgery and show enthusiasm for patient care. This position offers opportunities for skill development and a supportive working environment.

Benefits

Competitive wages and benefits

Wellness, sick, and vacation days

Career growth opportunities

Pet care discounts

Qualifications

• Previous experience in general practice veterinary surgery required.
• Enthusiasm for patient care and surgery preferred.
• Detail-oriented and organized.

Responsibilities

• Assist with pre-operative, peri-operative, and post-operative care.
• Handle a variety of surgical cases and learning opportunities.
• Participate in discussions to maintain high standards of care.

Skills

Patient restraint and lifting

Assisting with radiographs

Collecting blood samples

Maintaining surgical equipment

Time management

Calm under stress

Job description

JOB DESCRIPTION

Veterinary Technician Assistant - Referral Surgery

Location: Lake Country, BC

Tri Lake Animal Hospital & Referral Centre in Winfield, BC, is relaunching its Referral Surgery service this fall. We are seeking an enthusiastic and dedicated full-time Veterinary Tech Assistant to join our growing surgery team starting September 2025.

Our specialty surgery service is fully equipped and overseen by a board-certified Small Animal Surgery Specialist with experience in multi-disciplinary referral hospitals. Prior referral surgery experience is NOT required; however, previous experience in general practice veterinary surgery is essential. We look for candidates interested in surgery and anesthesia, passionate about patient care, team players, organized, detail-oriented, and relationship builders. Support and onsite training will be provided to help you grow your skills and knowledge within our surgery team.

Why We Need You

You will work directly with our Surgery Specialist to assist with pre-operative, peri-operative, and post-operative care of surgical patients. Our service handles a variety of cases, offering diverse daily skills and ample learning opportunities. The role requires excellent time management, attention to detail, and proactive participation in discussions to uphold the highest standards of patient care.

Skills you will learn and utilize include, but are not limited to:

• Patient restraint and lifting
• Assisting with radiographs before and after surgery
• Assisting with CT scans
• Collecting and submitting blood and lab samples
• Preparing medications and supplies for clients
• Handling and maintaining surgical equipment, including setup, cleaning, and sterilization
• Remaining calm and efficient under stress
• Maintaining a positive attitude and enthusiasm for learning
• Taking initiative to complete tasks independently

Additional Information

Compensation: Hourly rate to be determined based on experience and skills.

What VCA Canada Offers

Join our team and make a difference in the lives of pets and their families. Our extensive network of hospitals across Canada offers diverse experiences, a community atmosphere, and a caring culture:

• Competitive wages and benefits
• Wellness, sick, and vacation days
• Annual uniform allowance
• Career growth opportunities
• Referral bonus rewards
• Access to wellness apps and telemedicine
• Community involvement opportunities
• Pet care discounts and other perks