Veterinary Technologist Assistant - Surgery

Pulse Veterinary Specialists & Emergency; Sherwood Park; On-site; CAD 40,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

Pulse Veterinary Specialists & Emergency in Sherwood Park, Alberta, is seeking a qualified Veterinary Technologist Assistant (TA) to support surgical procedures and enhance patient care. The role includes duties such as preparing surgical suites, assisting with patient management, and communicating effectively with clients.

The ideal candidate thrives in a fast-paced environment and is well-organized. A minimum of one year of experience in veterinary assistance is preferred, along with strong interpersonal skills for effective client interactions.

Qualifications

• Experience in a veterinary setting preferred.
• Must be at least 18 years of age.
• Comfort with a variety of animals.

Responsibilities

• Support surgical veterinary team and patient care.
• Prepare and maintain surgical suites.
• Assist with client communication related to surgical cases.

Skills

Customer service skills

Interpersonal communication

Organizational skills

Problem-solving skills

Time management

Handling a variety of animals

Education

Completion of a Veterinary Medical Assistant program

Minimum of one year of experience as a Veterinary Assistant

Job description

Position Summary

The Veterinary Technologist Assistant (TA) plays a key role in supporting the surgical veterinary team through hands‑on clinical assistance, patient care, and client‑facing administrative coordination. This is a hybrid role that combines traditional surgical support responsibilities with surgical coordination and client communication to help ensure smooth workflow and an exceptional patient and client experience.

The Surgical TA reports to the Lead Specialty Registered Veterinary Technologist (RVT) and works collaboratively with Dr. Bruce, Dr. Gilbert, the Surgical Support team, and other specialty services to support the delivery of high‑quality patient care and efficient surgical operations.

The ideal candidate is highly organized, confident in client communication, and thrives in a fast‑paced specialty environment. They value a collaborative, collegial culture and contribute to the hospital’s strategy, commitments, and goals.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Provide exceptional patient care and support a high standard of compassion and professionalism.
• Prepare surgical suites, including room set‑up, efficient turnover between procedures, and thorough post‑procedure clean‑up.
• Perform decontamination, inspection, assembly, sterilization, and proper storage of surgical instruments and supplies.
• Conduct quality assurance testing to ensure sterilization processes are effective and compliant.
• Safely restrain patients as required during examinations and procedures.
• Assist Surgical RVTs and Veterinarians with procedures, treatments, and patient care as directed.
• Provide basic nursing care for hospitalized patients, including feeding, bathing, and overnight care.
• Identify and report equipment issues or malfunctions promptly to the appropriate supervisor.
• Support client communication related to surgical cases, including pre‑ and post‑operative coordination.
• Assist with reviewing incoming referrals and organizing surgical case flow appropriately.
• Coordinate scheduling of consults and surgical procedures in collaboration with the surgical and RVT teams.
• Assist with discharge communication and client instructions, ensuring clear, compassionate, and consistent messaging.
• Assist with practice management software, including accurate client and patient record maintenance.
• Maintain hospital cleanliness by following established cleaning schedules and supporting high standards of hygiene.
• Support inventory management of medical supplies and pharmaceuticals, including ordering, receiving, storage, and handling.
• Follow all hospital standard operating procedures (SOPs) to support safe and efficient operations.
• Comply with all federal and provincial animal health, workplace health, and safety regulations.
• Communicate clearly and proactively with clients, veterinarians, RVTs, and management to support teamwork and continuity of care.

Other duties may be assigned as required.

Qualifications

The ideal candidate will have:

Education and Experience

• Minimum of one (1) year of experience working as a Veterinary Assistant preferred.
• Completion of a Veterinary Medical Assistant program is considered an asset but not required.
• Must be at least 18 years of age in accordance with Occupational Health & Safety requirements.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Comfortable handling a wide variety of animals and communicating effectively with pet owners.
• Ability to thrive in a fast‑paced, dynamic clinical environment.
• Strong customer service skills with a compassionate, client‑focused approach.
• Excellent interpersonal, verbal, and written communication skills.
• Demonstrated ability to adapt to changing priorities and remain calm under pressure.
• Strong organizational and time management skills, with the ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Proven active listening, critical thinking, and problem‑solving skills.
• Motivated to continuously improve, contribute to practice growth, and pursue professional development.