Community Vet Surgery Assistant - High-Impact Care

Humane Society for Southwest Washington; Longview (WA); On-site; USD 29,000 - 36,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

3% Matching 401(k) retirement plan

Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

Public Service Loan Forgiveness

Job summary

The Humane Society for Southwest Washington is seeking a Community Medicine Veterinary Assistant to join our team in a full-time, nonexempt role. This position supports veterinarians and licensed technicians in a busy clinic focused on spay/neuter, preventative care, and expanding access to veterinary services for underserved communities.

Ideal candidates bring at least 2 years of veterinary assistant experience, comfort with anesthesia, and a strong commitment to compassionate care for animals

Qualifications

• Minimum of 2 years of experience as a Veterinary Assistant in a veterinary clinic, animal shelter, or high-volume spay/neuter program.
• Experience supporting surgical or anesthesia procedures strongly preferred.
• Experience in shelter medicine or high-volume spay/neuter environments preferred.
• Demonstrated ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced medical environment.
• Strong animal handling skills with dogs and cats of varying temperaments.
• Excellent communication and teamwork skills.

Responsibilities

• Assist with patient intake, handling, and preparation for surgery and medical appointments.
• Support veterinarians and licensed veterinary technicians with examinations, treatments, and procedures.
• Prepare animals for surgery including patient identification, weighing, pre-operative preparation, and surgical prep.
• Assist with anesthesia induction, monitoring, and recovery under the direction of veterinarians and licensed veterinary technicians.
• Monitor patient safety and report changes in condition promptly.
• Maintain accurate medical records within the clinic database.
• Assist with post-operative monitoring and discharge preparation.
• Support daily clinic flow to maintain efficient patient throughput.
• Prepare and maintain surgical packs, instruments, and treatment areas.
• Clean and disinfect clinical areas, equipment, and kennels according to disease control protocols.
• Assist with inventory management and stocking of clinic supplies.
• Support patient discharge and provide clear instructions to clients.
• Assist with community cat program patients and high-volume spay/neuter services.
• Provide professional and compassionate communication with clients accessing community veterinary services.
• Educate clients on preventative care, surgery preparation, and post-operative instructions.
• Support a welcoming environment for people and pets from diverse backgrounds.
• Work collaboratively with veterinary staff to support efficient clinic operations.
• Assist with training newer veterinary assistants and volunteers as needed.
• Promote a positive, respectful workplace culture focused on teamwork and accountability.
• Represent HSSW in a professional and courteous manner at all times.

Skills

Animal handling

Communication

Teamwork

Job description

The Humane Society for Southwest Washington is seeking a Community Medicine Veterinary Assistant to join our team in a full-time, nonexempt role. This position supports veterinarians and licensed technicians in a busy clinic focused on spay/neuter, preventative care, and expanding access to veterinary services for underserved communities.

Ideal candidates bring at least 2 years of veterinary assistant experience, comfort with anesthesia, and a strong commitment to compassionate care for animals