Orthopedic Veterinary Assistant

Colorado State University; Fort Collins (CO); On-site; USD 26,000 - 34,000; Full time

Job summary

Colorado State University Veterinary Health System is seeking a dedicated Veterinary Assistant to support the Orthopedic Surgery Service with daily patient care, restraint, exam assistance, and preparation for procedures.

You will help with client communications, inventory, stocking, and collaborate with veterinarians and technicians to ensure smooth clinic and surgical days while maintaining high standards of care.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Basic animal handling and restraint skills.
• Ability to follow instructions and work within a team.

Responsibilities

• Assist with patient receiving, restraint, examinations, sedation monitoring, and preparation for procedures.
• Prepare patients, equipment, and clinical areas for orthopedic procedures and surgical days.
• Assist with client communication and coordinate patient movement and workflow throughout the hospital.
• Stock clinical areas, monitor supplies, and communicate inventory needs.
• Work collaboratively with veterinarians, veterinary technicians, students, and other hospital staff to support efficient patient care.

Skills

Basic animal handling

Restraint

Teamwork

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Job description

Position Summary

This position provides essential support to the Orthopedic Surgery Service by assisting with the daily care and management of orthopedic patients. Key responsibilities include supporting patient receiving, assisting with physical exams, providing patient restraint, monitoring sedated patients, preparing patients and equipment for procedures, maintaining inventory, and communicating with clients and the surgical team. The purpose of this role is to ensure the smooth operation of both clinic and surgical days by contributing to high-quality patient care and efficient service workflow. This position is critical in helping the team deliver advanced orthopedic treatments while supporting a positive client experience and maintaining the highest standards of veterinary care.

Work Unit Description

At the CSU Veterinary Health System, animals and the people who care for them are at the heart of everything we do. Every decision we make reflects our commitment to those who trust us with their animals' health. That focus inspires us to deliver expert veterinary services, support, veterinary education and training, and advance groundbreaking research. We show up everyday with passion eagerness to collaborate, and a drive to redefine what's possible. Our deep partnership with the College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences amplifies our impact, enabling us to boldly innovate and share knowledge widely.

Essential Job Duties

• Assist with patient receiving, restraint, examinations, sedation monitoring, and preparation for procedures.
• Prepare patients, equipment, and clinical areas for orthopedic procedures and surgical days.
• Assist with client communication and coordinate patient movement and workflow throughout the hospital.
• Stock clinical areas, monitor supplies, and communicate inventory needs.
• Work collaboratively with veterinarians, veterinary technicians, students, and other hospital staff to support efficient patient care.

Conditions of Employment

• Pre-employment Criminal Background Check (required for new hires)
• Essential Services Designation: Required to report without delay or interruption to provide essential or emergency services to ensure health, safety, and welfare.
• The CSU Veterinary Health System does not follow standard University Holiday Schedule due to the nature of the business. After hours and weekend work may be required.
• Handling of and exposure to zoonotic and hazardous materials
• Must safely lift and carry items that weigh up to 50lbs.
• Candidate must be legally authorized to work in the United States.
• Visa sponsorship is not available for this position.

Minimum Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Basic animal handling and restraint skills.
• Ability to follow instructions and work within a team.

Preferred Qualifications

• Previous experience working with animals in a veterinary, animal care, or similar setting.
• Experience working in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to prioritize tasks in a changing clinical environment.

Salary Range $22.00/hr

Employee Benefits Colorado State University is not just a workplace; it’s a thriving community that’s transforming lives and improving the human condition through world-class teaching, research, and service. With a robust benefits package, collaborative atmosphere, and focus on work-life balance, CSU is where you can thrive, grow, and make a lasting impact.

Background Check Policy Statement Colorado State University strives to provide a safe study, work, and living environment for its faculty, staff, volunteers and students. To support this environment and comply with applicable laws and regulations, CSU conducts background checks for the finalist before a final offer. The type of background check conducted varies by position and can include, but is not limited to, criminal history, sex offender registry, motor vehicle history, financial history, and/or education verification. Background checks will also be conducted when required by law or contract and when, in the discretion of the University, it is reasonable and prudent to do so.

EEO Colorado State University (CSU) provides equal employment opportunities to all applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. Inspired by its land-grant heritage, Colorado State University is committed to excellence and engagement, setting the standard for public research universities in teaching, research, service and extension for the benefit of the citizens of Colorado, the United States, and the world.

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