Surgery Preparation Veterinary Assistant *$2,000 SIGN ON BONUS*

Upstate Veterinary Specialties; Latham (KS); On-site; USD 24,796 - 33,062; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

PTO

401(k)

healthcare benefits

continuing education

team-oriented environment

Job summary

Upstate Veterinary Specialties is looking for a Surgical Preparation Assistant in Latham, NY, who will support the surgical team by ensuring both the patients and the operating rooms are ready for procedures. The role requires at least 1 year of experience in a veterinary hospital setting and strong multitasking skills in a fast-paced environment.

You will handle patients safely, assist with diagnostics, and maintain high standards of surgical care. Benefits include PTO, 401(k), and advancement opportunities.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 1 year in a veterinary hospital setting required.
• Surgical or operating room experience preferred.
• Veterinary Assistant Certification preferred but not required.

Responsibilities

• Safely restrain and handle patients while obtaining medical histories.
• Assist with diagnostic testing and anesthetic induction.
• Prepare and maintain operating rooms and surgical equipment.
• Provide intraoperative support while maintaining aseptic technique.
• Manage patient admissions and discharges with client communication.
• Communicate effectively with team members.

Skills

Proficiency in safe handling and restraint of canine and feline patients

Strong understanding of veterinary terminology

Ability to assist with anesthesia

Excellent multitasking and prioritization skills

Strong communication and teamwork abilities

Critical thinking under pressure

Flexible and adaptable

Education

High School Diploma or equivalent

Job description

Surgical Preparation Assistant

Job Location: Upstate Veterinary Specialties - Latham, NY 12110
Position Type: Full Time
Education Level: Not Specified
Salary Range: $18.00 - $24.00 Hourly
Travel Percentage: None
Job Shift: Any

Upstate Veterinary Specialties is seeking a skilled and detail-oriented Surgical Preparation Assistant to support our surgical team and ensure patients and operating rooms are fully prepared for every procedure. If you’re looking for a role where you can make a meaningful impact every day, this is your opportunity. This position is essential to maintaining a safe, sterile, and efficient surgical environment while delivering high-quality patient care.

What You’ll Do

• Safely restrain and handle patients while obtaining and documenting accurate medical histories
• Assist with diagnostic testing, treatments, and anesthetic induction
• Prepare, clean, and maintain operating rooms, instruments, and surgical equipment
• Scrub in and provide intraoperative support while maintaining strict aseptic technique
• Manage patient admissions and discharges with clear client communication
• Communicate effectively with team members and relay critical patient updates
• Follow OSHA and hospital safety protocols while supporting workflow efficiency

Experience & Education

• Minimum of 1 year in a veterinary hospital setting (required)
• Surgical or operating room experience preferred
• High School Diploma or equivalent required
• Veterinary Assistant Certification preferred, but not required

Skills & Qualifications

• Proficiency in safe handling and restraint of canine and feline patients
• Strong understanding of veterinary terminology, surgical procedures, instrumentation, sterilization, and aseptic technique
• Ability to assist with anesthesia and patient preparation with strong attention to detail
• Excellent multitasking and prioritization skills in a fast-paced environment
• Strong communication and teamwork abilities
• Calm, composed, and capable of critical thinking under pressure
• Flexible, adaptable, and committed to continuous learning and professional growth

Schedule Options

• Monday – Thursday: 7:00 AM – 5:30 PM
• Tuesday – Friday: 7:30 AM – 6:00 PM

What We Offer

• PTO, 401(k), healthcare benefits, and more
• Opportunities for advancement in specialty veterinary medicine
• Continuing education and cross-training opportunities
• Team-oriented environment with employee appreciation events

Ready to Make a Difference?

Don’t wait—apply today and take the lead on your next career move with UVS. Where skill, compassion, and teamwork come together to make every procedure possible.