Veterinary Assistant

Horse Heaven Hills Pet Urgent Care & Veterinary Center; Kennewick (WA); On-site; USD 36,000 - 52,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental, and vision insurance

Paid time off & 401(k)

Job summary

Horse Heaven Hills Pet Urgent Care & Veterinary Center in Kennewick, WA is hiring for a full-time pet care role. The position supports veterinarians and technicians, observes animal health, and assists with radiographs and aftercare tasks.

A strong passion for animal welfare and the ability to multi-task in a fast-paced setting are essential. Qualified applicants should have a high school diploma, be able to lift up to 40 lbs, and handle animals safely and compassionately.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent is required.
• Passion for animals and their well-being.
• Ability to multi-task efficiently in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Physical ability to lift up to 40 lbs and perform active movements (standing, walking, bending).
• Ability to handle animals safely and compassionately.

Responsibilities

• Observe and report to medical staff on health/condition of patients: food and water intake, urine color, stool characteristics, vomiting, sneezing, coughing, or any symptoms or behaviors.
• Support LVTs and Veterinary Assistants in a variety of tests and analyses.
• Record temperature, pulse, and respiration notes for patients under anesthesia while under direct supervision of an LVT.
• Assist in the acquisition of proper radiographs of patients using correct technique, while ensuring personal safety.
• Escort and assist patients to and from their cars, as needed.
• Prepare deceased pets for various aftercare needs.
• Maintain stock of supplies throughout the facility and assess inventory needs.

Skills

Multi-tasking

Organizational skills

Attention to detail

Lifting up to 40 lbs

Animal handling safely

Calm under pressure

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Tools

Veterinary practice management software

Standard office equipment

Job description

What to Expect

As you join our mission to create a better world for animals and the people who love them, expect to be supported in your work and home life with:

• Acomprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, and vision insurance
• Paid time off and a 401(k) plan for full-time employees

Salary: $17.13 - $25 per hour, determined by the candidate's skills, experience, and qualifications.

Schedule: This is a full-time position averaging 30-40 hours per week. Hours may vary based on hospital operating hours. Monday–Saturday: 7:30 AM–11:30 PM and Sunday: 7:30 AM–7:30 PM

Key Responsibilities

• Observe and report to medical staff on health/condition of patients: food and water intake, urine color, stool characteristics, vomiting, sneezing, coughing, or any symptoms or behaviors
• Support LVTs and Veterinary Assistants in a variety of tests and analyses
• Record temperature, pulse, and respiration notes for patients under anesthesia while under direct supervision of an LVT
• Assist in the acquisition of proper radiographs of patients using correct technique, while ensuring personal safety
• Escort and assist patients to and from their cars, as needed
• Prepare deceased pets for various aftercare needs
• Maintain stock of supplies throughout the facility and assess inventory needs

Qualifications

Required:

• High school diploma or equivalent
• Passion for animals and their well-being
• Ability to multi-task efficiently in a fast-paced environment
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail
• Physical ability to lift up to 40 lbs and perform active movements (standing, walking, bending)
• Ability to handle animals safely and compassionately

Preferred

• Previous experience in a veterinary setting
• Knowledge of practice/hospital animal caretaker procedures
• Skilled in the use of standard office equipment and veterinary practice management software

What Makes You Successful Here:

• Proactive work ethic with strong initiative
• Positive attitude and adaptability
• Commitment to learning and professional growth
• Ability to work cooperatively with management, staff, and clients
• Ability to remain calm and professional in stressful situations
• Team collaboration and constructive communication

About Horse Heaven Hills Pet Urgent Care and Veterinary Center

At Horse Heaven Hills, we go beyond standard care to create a welcoming environment where pets receive expert attention when they need it most. By fostering trust, embracing innovation, and prioritizing kindness, we deliver exceptional veterinary care with empathy, integrity, and an unwavering dedication to pet well-being.We offer career advancement opportunities with clearly defined growth paths from entry-level to senior leadership roles.