Surgical Veterinary Assistant - OR Team Player

Ethos Veterinary Health; Washington (District of Columbia); On-site; USD 30,000 - 39,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Retirement benefits

Paid time off

Short/long-term disability

Life insurance

CE allowance

Professional development

Job summary

Summit Veterinary Referral Center is seeking a Veterinary Assistant - Surgery in Tacoma, WA. The role supports the surgical team and perioperative care, from patient prep to recovery, with a focus on teamwork and patient welfare.

The position requires adaptability in a busy surgical environment, with opportunities to work across anesthesia, imaging, and lab tasks. Training is available for the right candidate who demonstrates strong communication and reliability.

Qualifications

• Knowledge of veterinary medical terminology, anatomy, and pharmacology preferred.
• Experience in a specialty hospital preferred; willing to train the right candidate.
• WA state medical clerk license preferred; willing to obtain within 3 months of hire.
• Ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced, often chaotic, and stressful environment.
• Collaborative mindset with attention to detail, reliability, dependability, and trustworthiness.

Responsibilities

• Assist with preparation of patients for surgery, including vitals, restraint, blood collection, and IV placement.
• Set up the OR and aseptic prep of the surgery site.
• Move sedated or anesthetized patients to/from the OR and maintain sterile fields.
• Assist with recovery and OR maintenance (daily/weekly/monthly).
• Perform in-house lab work as required.
• Assist with imaging (X-ray, Ultrasound, CT) and radiograph positioning.
• Prepare prescriptions and communicate discharge orders to clients clearly.
• Work closely with veterinarians, technicians, and support teams.
• Contribute to a positive, team-focused hospital culture.

Skills

Vet terminology

Veterinary experience

WA license

Fast-paced work

Team player

Job description

Summit Veterinary Referral Center is seeking a Veterinary Assistant - Surgery in Tacoma, WA. The role supports the surgical team and perioperative care, from patient prep to recovery, with a focus on teamwork and patient welfare.

The position requires adaptability in a busy surgical environment, with opportunities to work across anesthesia, imaging, and lab tasks. Training is available for the right candidate who demonstrates strong communication and reliability.