5049 Veterinary Assistant- Surgical Trained

MARS Veterinary; South Riding (VA); On-site; USD 25,347 - 32,387; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance

401(k) plans with company match

Paid time off and holidays

Continuing education allowance

Employee discounts on products and services

Job summary

VCA Inc. in South Riding, Virginia, is seeking a Veterinary Assistant to support veterinarians and ensure the wellbeing of pets. The role includes educating clients and maintaining a clean clinical environment. Ideal candidates should have a NAVTA-approved certificate and strong communication skills.

Benefits include comprehensive medical insurance, 401(k) plans, paid time off, and continuing education allowances. Join our collaborative team to make a difference in pet healthcare.

Qualifications

• Candidates must have strong communication and listening skills.
• Ability to perform surgical assisting as per NAVTA standards.
• Experience in a veterinary setting is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Help maintain the flow of patients.
• Communicate with veterinarians and vet techs.
• Adhere to hospital standards for safety and cleanliness.

Skills

Customer-focused communication

Surgical assisting skills

Team collaboration

Education

Certificate from NAVTA-approved veterinary assistant program

High school diploma or equivalent

Job description

Veterinary Assistant – Banfield Pet Hospital

Veterinary Assistants work closely with veterinaries and veterinary technicians to support the health and wellbeing of pets, clients, and associates. As a team member, you will advocate for pets and educate clients while also ensuring a safe, clean, and efficient clinical environment.

Responsibilities

• Help maintain the flow of patients.
• Communicate with veterinarians and vet techs.
• Carry out or set up procedures that do not require veterinarian or vet tech assistance.
• Adhere to hospital standards that keep pets safe and maintain cleanliness of treatment areas, exam rooms, and labs.
• Educate clients about Optimum Wellness Plans and the importance of preventive care.
• Mentor other members of the hospital team.

Qualifications

Preferred Education: Certificate of completion from a NAVTA-approved veterinary assistant program or an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience. A high‑school diploma or equivalent is preferred.

Preferred Experience: Ability to perform surgical assisting and all required skills of NAVTA-approved veterinary assistant programs, at a level that supports practice efficiency.

We seek candidates who are action‑oriented, customer‑focused, good listeners, effective communicators, and caring for those who care.

Pay

The pay range for this role is $18.40 – $23.51 per hour, determined by experience, skill level, and education. Actual rates may vary by location and minimum‑wage requirements.

Benefits

• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• 401(k) and Roth retirement plans with company match.
• Student debt relief program for full‑time DVMs.
• Paid time off and holidays.
• Top‑tier mental health and wellbeing resources, including free coaching and counseling.
• Associate life insurance and supplemental coverage.
• Company‑paid short‑ and long‑term disability insurance.
• Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) and Health Savings Account (HSA).
• Paid parental leave for birth and adoption.
• Continuing education allowance for eligible positions.
• Back‑up child and elder care support and family resources.
• Fertility and family‑building support.
• Digital exercise therapy program.
• Voluntary protection benefits, legal plan, identity protection, and commuter benefits.
• Three free Optimum Wellness Plans for pets.
• Exclusive discounts on products and services.

Professional Growth and Support

• Performance development plans designed to help you reach career goals.
• Relevant learning opportunities.
• Networking events.
• Ways to offer your skills to your community.

We provide a unique leadership structure with support from corporate headquarters, field, and hospital level, ensuring a collaborative environment that helps every team member thrive in pet healthcare.