Surgical Veterinary Assistant — Community Clinic

Humane Society for Southwest Washington; Vancouver (WA); On-site; USD 29,000 - 36,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Dental & vision insurance

401(k) matching

Job summary

The Humane Society for Southwest Washington is seeking a Community Medicine Veterinary Assistant in Vancouver, WA. This full-time, nonexempt role supports veterinarians and techs in a high-volume clinic focused on spay/neuter, preventative care, and improving access to veterinary services for underserved communities.

The position requires at least 2 years of veterinary assistant experience, ability to assist with anesthesia, and strong animal handling skills.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 2 years of experience working as a Veterinary Assistant in a veterinary clinic, animal shelter, or high-volume spay/neuter program.
• Experience supporting surgical or anesthesia procedures strongly preferred.
• Experience in shelter medicine or high-volume spay/neuter environments preferred.
• Demonstrated ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced medical environment.
• Strong animal handling skills with dogs and cats of varying temperaments.
• Excellent communication and teamwork skills.

Responsibilities

• Assist with patient intake, handling, and preparation for surgery and medical appointments.
• Support veterinarians and licensed veterinary technicians with examinations, treatments, and procedures.
• Prepare animals for surgery including patient identification, weighing, pre-operative preparation, and surgical prep.
• Assist with anesthesia induction, monitoring, and recovery under the direction of veterinarians and licensed veterinary technicians.
• Monitor patient safety and report changes in condition promptly.
• Maintain accurate medical records within the clinic database.
• Assist with post-operative monitoring and discharge preparation.
• Support daily clinic flow to maintain efficient patient throughput.
• Prepare and maintain surgical packs, instruments, and treatment areas.
• Clean and disinfect clinical areas, equipment, and kennels according to disease control protocols.
• Assist with inventory management and stocking of clinic supplies.
• Support patient discharge and provide clear instructions to clients.
• Assist with community cat program patients and high-volume spay/neuter services.
• Provide professional and compassionate communication with clients accessing community veterinary services.
• Educate clients on preventative care, surgery preparation, and post-operative instructions.
• Support a welcoming environment for people and pets from diverse backgrounds.
• Work collaboratively with veterinary staff to support efficient clinic operations.
• Assist with training newer veterinary assistants and volunteers as needed.
• Promote a positive, respectful workplace culture focused on teamwork and accountability.
• Represent HSSW in a professional and courteous manner at all times.

Skills

Animal handling

Communication skills

Teamwork

Multitasking

Fast-paced environment

Surgical assisting

Job description

The Humane Society for Southwest Washington is seeking a Community Medicine Veterinary Assistant in Vancouver, WA. This full-time, nonexempt role supports veterinarians and techs in a high-volume clinic focused on spay/neuter, preventative care, and improving access to veterinary services for underserved communities.

The position requires at least 2 years of veterinary assistant experience, ability to assist with anesthesia, and strong animal handling skills.