Veterinary Assistant

Banfield Pet Hospital; Fayetteville (NC, AR); On-site; USD 30,000 - 40,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading veterinary hospital is seeking a Veterinary Assistant to support veterinarians and technicians in providing exceptional care for pets. This role involves educating clients on pet health, maintaining medical records, and assisting with surgical procedures. Ideal candidates will have a NAVTA-approved program completion and strong customer service skills.

Qualifications

• Completion of NAVTA-approved Veterinary Assistant program or equivalent education.
• At least 18 years old for radiography duties.
• One year of related experience preferred.

Responsibilities

• Assist veterinarians and veterinary technicians in providing quality care.
• Educate clients about wellness plans and preventive care.
• Maintain accurate medical records and ensure safety protocols.

Skills

Leadership

Customer focus

Listening skills

Problem-solving

Organizational skills

Mathematical proficiency

Computer literacy

Education

Completion of NAVTA-approved Veterinary Assistant program

High School Diploma or equivalent

Tools

Medical software

Microsoft Office

Job description

SUMMARY OF JOB PURPOSE AND FUNCTION

The Veterinary Assistant supports veterinarians and veterinary technicians in providing quality veterinary care for pets, advocating for pets, educating clients on pet health, and maintaining a safe hospital environment.

ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES AND TASKS

1. Live and exemplify the Five Principles of Mars, Inc. within self and team.
2. Assist veterinarians and veterinary technicians to ensure the best pet care and maximize productivity by acting as their extra eyes, ears, and hands. Communicate effectively with team members to maintain patient flow.
3. Provide professional, efficient, and exceptional service, including performing procedures that do not require veterinarian assistance, preparing for procedures, ensuring client and pet comfort, and monitoring hospitalized or surgical pets as allowed by state laws.
4. Educate clients about wellness plans, preventive care, and hospital services.
5. Obtain relevant client information and maintain accurate medical records.
6. Ensure safety by using proper restraining techniques, following protocols, and maintaining cleanliness and organization of treatment areas.
7. Assist with surgical procedures as applicable.
8. Utilize technical skills within legal guidelines and NAVTA guidelines for veterinary assistants.
9. Mentor other paraprofessionals in the hospital.
10. Perform other duties as assigned.

THE FIVE PRINCIPLES

• Quality – Focus on customer satisfaction, quality work, and value.
• Responsibility – Take responsibility for your actions and support others.
• Mutuality – Aim for shared benefits that endure.
• Efficiency – Use resources wisely and focus on strengths.
• Freedom – Foster a work environment that allows shaping the future and maintaining profitability.

HIRING QUALIFICATIONS AND COMPETENCIES

• Leadership, action orientation, customer focus, listening skills, peer relationships, personal learning, and functional skills.
• Ability to ensure medical quality, communicate effectively, drive results, prioritize tasks.

CAPABILITIES AND EXPERIENCE

• Ability to multitask efficiently under distracting conditions.
• Excellent communication skills in English, both written and verbal.
• Organizational skills and systematic approach to tasks.
• Problem-solving ability to analyze and resolve issues.
• Strong client service orientation.
• Ability to follow instructions accurately.
• Mathematical proficiency and computer literacy, including medical software and Microsoft Office.

ATTITUDES

• Initiative, integrity, cooperativeness, flexibility, independence, stress resilience.

SPECIAL WORKING CONDITIONS

• Prolonged computer use, confidence around pets, willingness to work beyond 40 hours including weekends and evenings.
• Physical ability to perform tasks including lifting up to 50 pounds, standing, walking, and manipulating equipment.
• Exposure to pets, anesthesia, radiation, biological hazards, and medications.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

• Completion of NAVTA-approved Veterinary Assistant program or equivalent education and training.
• High School Diploma or equivalent preferred.
• At least 18 years old for radiography duties.
• One year of related experience preferred, especially in customer service.