Small Animal Surgery Veterinary Assistant

University of Florida; Gainesville (FL); On-site; USD 21,000 - 22,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Paid time off

Job summary

The University of Florida is seeking a Small Animal Surgery Veterinary Assistant on the Main Campus in Gainesville, FL. You will work with veterinarians and technicians to provide basic patient care for orthopedic and soft tissue surgical cases, assist with examinations, monitor sedated patients, and support client communication.

The ideal candidate has veterinary patient care experience, excellent communication, and a proactive attitude, with the ability to adapt to a changing hospital

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Experience with veterinary patient care preferred.
• Excellent communication skills and proactive attitude.

Responsibilities

• Assist veterinarians and technicians with examinations.
• Monitor sedated patients.
• Transport animals within the hospital.
• Coordinate with the patient care team to handle cases.
• Stock, clean, organize, and assist with client communication.
• Must be able to lift up to 40 lbs.

Skills

Veterinary patient care experience

Communication skills

Proactive learner

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Job description

Small Animal Surgery Veterinary Assistant

Job No: 541801 Work Type: Full Time Location: Main Campus (Gainesville, FL) Categories: Veteran's Preference Eligible, Veterinary Medicine/Animal Care Department: 28311100 - VM-SURGERY

Job Description

Classification Title: Veterinary Assistant (CARE)

Classification Minimum Requirements: High school diploma or equivalent.

The Small Animal Surgery Veterinary Assistant at the University of Florida works with veterinarians and veterinary technicians to provide basic patient care and husbandry for patients being seen for orthopedic and soft tissue surgical issues. A typical day includes assisting with examinations, monitoring sedated patients, transporting animals to other areas of the hospital, coordinating with the patient care team to efficiently handle cases, stocking, cleaning, organizing, and assisting with client communication as needed. The ideal candidate has experience with veterinary patient care and is proactive and excited to learn.

An individual in this position must possess excellent communication skills and be proactive in determining the needs of the service. They should enjoy learning new things and can quickly adapt to a changing environment. They should possess a good base knowledge of veterinary medicine and maintain a positive attitude in their daily work. They must be able to communicate effectively, demonstrating critical thinking and professionalism.

Expected Salary: $15 - 16 /hr

Preferred: Certified Veterinary Assistant

This is a CARE position offering limited benefits, including health insurance and paid time off. When appropriate certifications are achieved, promotional opportunities to a level II title may be available. This position will also become eligible for transition into a TEAMS (staff) salary plan. This position is eligible for Veteran's preference.

Application must be submitted by 11:55 p.m. (ET) of the posting end date.

Health Assessment Required: Yes; Must be able to lift a minimum of 40 lbs, bend, kneel, pull, push, twist and stand for an extended period of time.

Applications Close: 29 October 2026

Our Commitment

The University of Florida is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer.

Hiring is contingent on eligibility to work in the U.S. The University of Florida is a public institution and is subject to all requirements under Florida Sunshine and Public Record laws. If an accommodation due to a disability is needed to apply for this position, please call 352-392-2477 or the Florida Relay System at 800-955-8771 (TDD) or visit Accessibility at UF.