Senior Veterinary Assistant, ECC

Ethos Veterinary Health; Redwood City (CA); On-site; USD 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A forward-thinking company is seeking a Senior Veterinary Assistant to join their Emergency and Critical Care team. This role offers an exciting opportunity to work in a dynamic environment, providing specialized care to critically ill patients. With a focus on teamwork and compassion, you will assist in life-saving procedures and contribute to a supportive atmosphere. Enjoy competitive compensation, including a sign-on bonus, and comprehensive benefits that promote your professional growth and well-being. If you are passionate about veterinary medicine and thrive in high-pressure situations, this is the perfect opportunity for you.

Benefits

Sign-on bonus

In-house training courses

Continuing education reimbursement

Employee Referral Program

Health, dental, and vision insurance

401(k)

Paid time off

Flexible spending account

Uniforms

Qualifications

• 5+ years in emergency and critical care veterinary medicine preferred.
• Comfortable working with critical and unstable patients.

Responsibilities

• Assist with emergency triage and monitor vital signs.
• Administer medications and assist in crash scenarios.
• Maintain a clean and safe environment for patients.

Skills

Emergency triage

Animal handling

Communication

Multitasking

Detail-oriented

Education

High school diploma or GED

Veterinary Assistant Certificate

Job description

Senior Veterinary Assistant – ER & Critical Care

At SAGE Redwood City, we are dedicated to providing advanced, compassionate, and collaborative veterinary care. Our Emergency and Critical Care team delivers specialized, 24/7 treatment to patients requiring intensive monitoring and life-saving interventions.

We are seeking dedicated, skilled, and team-oriented professionals who are looking for an opportunity to grow alongside an expert team.

About the Role:

As a Senior Veterinary Assistant in the Emergency and Critical Care department, some of your responsibilities will include:

• Assist with emergency triage
• Restrain animals safely for procedures, blood draws, and catheter placement
• Monitor vital signs and alert medical team of changes
• Provide comfort and low-stress handling for critically ill or injured patients
• Administer oral, topical, and injectable medications under DVM supervision
• Assist with placing IV lines, oxygen therapy, and fluid therapy monitoring
• Prepare and assist in crash scenarios (e.g., CPR setup, crash cart readiness)
• Retrieve emergency medications and supplies promptly
• Maintain a calm, efficient demeanor under high-pressure situations
• Collect urine, fecal, and blood samples
• Run in-house lab tests
• Prepare patients for radiographs and assist in taking diagnostic images
• Disinfect exam rooms, kennels, and equipment
• Properly handle biohazardous materials
• Ensure a clean and safe environment for patients and staff
• Accurately chart vitals, treatments, and responses in medical records
• Assist in creating and maintaining treatment sheets

Requirements:

• High school diploma or GED
• Veterinary Assistant Certificate or completion of a veterinary assistant program preferred
• Minimum of 5+ years in emergency and critical care veterinary medicine, or at least 10 years in general practice with demonstrated advanced technical skills
• Comfortable working with critical and unstable patients
• Familiarity with emergency triage, common ER meds, and CCU protocols
• Excellent communication and teamwork in high-stress environments
• Strong animal handling and restraint techniques
• Detail-oriented with the ability to multitask
• Compassionate and patient-centered mindset
• Able to lift 40–50 lbs unassisted

Work Schedule:

• Full-time position - Swing and Overnight schedules available
• 4/10 or 3/12 schedule options
• One weekend shift required

Compensation and Benefits:

• $24.00 - $32.00 hourly plus shift differentials
• $5.50/hour paid differential for hours between 6pm and 6am
• Sign-on bonus:
• Up to $5,000 for Overnight Shift
• Up to $3,000 for Swing Shift
• In-house RACE-approved courses and staff development opportunities
• Reimbursement for eligible expenses related to continuing education
• Access to Ethos-wide VetBloom Learning platform with RACE approved CE
• Peer-to-Peer Mentorship Networks for growth and development
• Employee Referral Program
• Bonuses for obtaining RVT or VTS certification
• Full-time benefits include health, dental, vision, disability, life insurances, flex-spending, 401(k), EAP, vacation, sick leave, and uniforms

If you’re passionate about emergency & critical care medicine and want to work in a supportive, high-performing environment, we want to hear from you! Apply today and advance your veterinary career.

Ethos Veterinary Health is at the forefront of innovation and world-class medicine. As a network of over 140 hospitals across North America, Ethos brings together over 1,500 specialized doctors providing care for nearly 2 million pets annually. We utilize state-of-the-art technology and a scientific, evidence-based approach to deliver compassionate, unparalleled care and rewarding careers. Discover more at EthosVet.com.

Our comprehensive benefits include medical, dental, vision, 401(k), paid time off, and more. Specific details will be provided during the hiring process. For Colorado-based positions, we comply with local leave laws.