Surgical Veterinary Assistant I — Hands-On Patient Care

Treehouse Animal Shelter; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 24,576 - 25,485; Full time

Job summary

Treehouse Animal Shelter in Chicago is seeking a full-time Veterinary Assistant I - Surgery to support veterinarians in surgical procedures and patient care. The ideal candidate will possess a High School Diploma and at least one year of related experience.

This role includes responsibilities such as prepping patients for surgery, monitoring anesthesia, and maintaining a clean environment. Flexibility, strong customer service orientation, and a passion for animal welfare are key attributes for success.

Qualifications

• 1+ year experience in veterinary medical or animal husbandry.
• Passion for animals and animal welfare.
• Flexibility with work hours.

Responsibilities

• Assist veterinarian during surgery and other medical procedures.
• Monitor patients under anesthesia.
• Prepare and clean surgical instruments and areas.

Skills

Customer service

Time management

Organizational skills

Ability to handle multiple tasks

Excellent verbal communication

Education

High School Diploma or equivalent

Job description

If you are unable to complete this application due to a disability, contact this employer to ask for an accommodation or an alternative application process.

Veterinary Assistant I - Surgery

Wellness Center Full Time Assignee Tree House Humane Society, Chicago, IL, US

30+ days ago Requisition ID: 1043

Salary Range: $17.84 To $18.50 Hourly

JOB TITLE:Veterinary Assistant - Surgical (I)

DEPARTMENT:Veterinary Wellness Center

REPORTS TO:Manager, Veterinary Wellness Center

SUPERVISES:N/A

CLASSIFICATION:Non-Exempt, Full-Time, Hourly

EFFECTIVE: 5/18/2026

SUMMARY: The Surgical Assistant assists the veterinarian and other assistants with patient care services in relation to surgery intake, discharge appointments, post-operative rechecks and wellness exams. This position assists in the preparation of patients for surgery, assists in patient restraint for exams, recovers patients after surgery, and assists in patient discharges. Services of the VWC include high quality, high volume spay/neuter (80%) in addition to basic wellness/preventative care (20%).

Applications received by September 22 will be prioritized in our review. Applications received after that may be reviewed based on volume and need.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Know basic veterinary medical concepts, including, but not limited to vaccine protocols and anesthetic risks. Be able to communicate such information to clients.
• Knowledge and ability to intake and release patients, including delivering post-operative instructions in a competent and friendly manner
• Responsible for prepping patients for surgery, observing all clinic procedures, to enforce sterility and safety of patients
  • Organize and maintain pre-operative area and operating room for patient anesthesia
• General duties in the operating room during surgery, assisting with movement of patients, recovery of patients, and general flow
• Able to monitor basic anesthesia with a clear idea of abnormal conditions
  • Direct all concerns immediately to the veterinarian, supervisor, and or the manager on duty
• Able to respond appropriately during an emergency, able to take directions from a veterinarian and/or superior veterinary staff and maintain competency in CPR procedures
• Ensure anesthetic machines, pulse oximeters, scales, and other equipment are functional.
  • When equipment is not working properly, report all findings to the assistant supervisor or manager
• Assists veterinarians and staff with medical exams as needed; involves but is not limited to fear-free restraint, vaccinations, other injections, intubation and preoperative prep and or blood work
• Clean and sonicate surgical instruments and prepare surgical packs as needed.
• Assist with replenishing supplies in all areas of the hospital as needed
• Clean and disinfect kennels and equipment
• Supports and follows all SOP’s and verbal instructions provided by all senior management
• Cross train and assist in the resident clinic as needed.
• Performs other duties as assigned by management based on the needs of the hospital and organization

QUALIFICATIONS:

• High School Diploma or equivalent
• Desired at least 1-year experience in veterinary medical or animal husbandry in a veterinary hospital, shelter or spay/neuter clinic.
• Passion for animals and animal welfare
• Strong background in customer service
• Flexibility with work hours and able to work additional hours when necessary
• Must be able to work efficiently in a fast-paced environment with demonstrated ability to juggle multiple competing tasks and demands
• Strong organizational and time management skills, as well as a strong sense of personal accountability
• Excellent verbal communication skills, Spanish speaking a plus but not required

COMPETENCIES:

Customer Service - Treats customers (internal and external) with respect and courtesy. Shows interest in, anticipates, and responds timely to customer needs and concerns. Goes beyond basic service expectations to help customers. Responds appropriately to and resolves difficult and emotional situations. Seeks ways to improve service delivery.

Diversity - Enthusiastically works with all employees, regardless of race, gender, culture, and age. Values contributions of people from diverse backgrounds. Demonstrates respect for opinions and ideas of others. Shows awareness of and sensitivity to cultural and individual values.

Ethics- Respects and maintains confidentiality. Offers the truth and be honest in all dealings. Avoids situations and actions considered inappropriate or which present a conflict of interest. Upholds organizational values. Does not misrepresent self or use position or authority for personal gain.

Teamwork - Listens and responds constructively to others views. Gives and welcomes feedback. Provides assistance to others when they need it. Shares expertise and acknowledges others effort and contribution. Puts the success of the team above their own interests. Creates a positive work environment.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS AND WORK ENVIRONMENT:

• Frequently required to stand, walk, kneel and bend over or stoop.
• Occasional exposure to wet and/or humid conditions (non-weather).
• Must occasionally lift and /or move up to 40 pounds assisted
• May be exposed to unpleasant odors, noises and animal bodily fluids or feces.
• May be exposed to aggressive, ill and/or injured animals, as well as bites, scratches, and infectious (zoonotic) animal diseases.

The above is intended to describe the general content of and requirements for the performance of this job. It is not to be construed as an exhaustive statement of duties, responsibilities or physical requirements. Nothing in this job description restricts management’s right to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.