Relief Veterinary Assistant

veterinarypracticepartners; Kennewick (WA); On-site; USD 23,000 - 29,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Employee discount on pet care

Medical, dental, vision, retirement, &

Job summary

Horse Heaven Hills Pet Urgent Care and Veterinary Center is seeking a Veterinary Assistant to assist doctors and technicians, handle animals with care, collect patient data, and help prepare treatment plans. The role requires lifting up to 40 lbs, strong communication, and experience in a veterinary setting.

Training and growth opportunities are offered in a busy urgent care environment. Benefits include medical, dental, vision, retirement, PTO and an employee pet discount.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent is required.
• Ability to lift up to 40 lbs and handle animals safely.
• Strong communication and client service skills are essential.
• Experience in a fast-paced urgent care environment preferred.
• Reliable, punctual, and team-oriented.

Responsibilities

• Assist veterinarians and technicians during examinations, treatments, and surgeries.
• Handle and restrain animals safely and compassionately.
• Collect patient information including weight, vitals, medical history, and food intake.
• Prepare and review treatment plans with clients.
• Perform patient discharges and provide post-operative education.
• Take radiographs and prepare exam rooms and surgical areas.
• Maintain accurate medical records and documentation.
• Communicate with pet owners about care and follow-up visits.
• Support reception staff and cross-train as needed.

Skills

Communication

Client service

Teamwork

Physical strength

Veterinary technical skills

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Washington Veterinary Medication Clerk Permit

CPR/BLS RECOVER certification

Job description

Veterinary Assistant

What to Expect

All the benefits you deserve -medical, dental, vision, retirement, PTO -plus an employee pet discount because we know your pets are family, too.

Salary: $17.13 - $20.50 per hour (based on experience and qualifications)

Schedule: Relief Working hours will vary. Monday - Saturday 7:30am -11:30pm Sundays 7:30am-7:30pm

Reports To: Lead Veterinary Technician

Key Responsibilities

• Assist veterinarians and veterinary technicians during examinations, treatments, and surgeries
• Handle and restrain animals safely and compassionately
• Collect patient information including weight, vitals, medical history, and food intake
• Prepare and review treatment plans with clients
• Perform patient discharges and provide post-operative/procedure education
• Perform outpatient procedures such as vaccines, nail trims, anal gland expressions, and diagnostic sample collections under supervision
• Take radiographs using proper technique while ensuring personal safety
• Prepare examination rooms and surgical areas by cleaning and sterilizing equipment
• Maintain accurate medical records and ensure proper documentation
• Assist with emergency situations and remain calm under pressure
• Communicate professionally with pet owners about care, treatment plans, and follow-up visits
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe clinic environment
• Support reception staff and cross-train in multiple areas as needed

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent
• Physical ability to lift up to 40 lbs and to handle animals safely and compassionately
• Strong communication and client service skills
• Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced urgent care environment
• Reliable, punctual, and team-oriented
• Previous experience in a veterinary setting
• Washington Veterinary Medication Clerk Permit
• Technical skills in areas such as venipuncture, catheter placement, and anesthesia monitoring
• CPR/BLS RECOVER certification

What Makes You Successful Here

• Proactive work ethic with strong initiative
• Positive attitude and adaptability
• Commitment to learning and professional growth
• Excellent organizational and time management skills
• Ability to remain calm under pressure
• Team collaboration and constructive communication

Our Core Values

• Providing exceptional service with compassion and hospitality
• Making positive assumptions about others
• Building trust through transparency
• Embody a growth mindset

About Horse Heaven Hills Pet Urgent Care and Veterinary Center

At Horse Heaven Hills, we go beyond standard care to create a welcoming environment where pets receive expert attention when they need it most. By fostering trust, embracing innovation, and prioritizing service with compassion, we deliver exceptional veterinary care with empathy, integrity, and an unwavering dedication to pet well-being.

We offer career advancement opportunities with clearly defined growth paths from entry-level to senior leadership roles.

Horse Heaven Hills Pet Urgent Care and Veterinary Center is an equal opportunity employer.

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