Veterinary Assistant

VCA Animal Hospitals, Inc; Richfield (MN); On-site; USD 25,000 - 36,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Lyra mental health

Healthcare: medical, dental, vision

Paid time off

401(k) with employer contribution

Pet care discounts

VTNE sponsorships

Job summary

VCA Animal Care Hospital in Richfield, MN is hiring a full-time Veterinary Assistant to support doctors and technicians in patient care, diagnostics, and treatments. The role offers a collaborative environment and opportunities for growth in veterinary medicine.

Responsibilities include assisting with exams, surgeries, diagnostics, medications, and owner communication, with a schedule that may include Saturdays. A high school diploma is required, and prior veterinary experience is preferred.

Qualifications

• Previous experience in a veterinary setting as a Veterinary Assistant.
• Comfortable handling dogs and cats of all sizes and temperaments.
• High school diploma or equivalent required.

Responsibilities

• Assist veterinarians in examining and treating patients, including surgeries and dental procedures.
• Perform diagnostic tests (radiographs, blood work, urinalysis) and prepare samples.
• Administer medications, vaccines, and treatments as prescribed.
• Monitor patient care, pain management, wound care, and nutrition.
• Perform venipuncture and maintain detailed patient records according to AAHA standards.
• Educate pet owners about health, treatment plans, and aftercare instructions.
• Ensure sterilization and maintenance of surgical instruments and equipment.
• Assist with inventory management and ordering of supplies.
• Collaborate with a team in a positive work environment.

Skills

Teamwork

Communication

Animal handling

Education

High school diploma

Job description

Job Location and Position

1208 E. 66th Street. Richfield, MN 55423

Full-time Veterinary Assistant at VCA Animal Care Hospital

About Our Hospital

VCA Animal Care Hospital is a trusted AAHA-accredited hospital serving pets and families in our community with personalized veterinary care. From routine wellness visits to surgery and dental care, we focus on building lasting relationships with our clients while creating a supportive and collaborative workplace for our team.

The Opportunity

As a Veterinary Assistant, you’ll play an important role in supporting our doctors and technicians while helping create a positive experience for pets and their families. This is a great opportunity for someone who loves animals, enjoys teamwork, and wants to grow in veterinary medicine.

Schedule

Full-time, flexible position that would include some Saturdays.

Compensation

$18 - 26/hr, and the starting range is determined by skill set and years of experience in the field.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist veterinarians in all aspects of patient care, including physical exams, surgeries, dental procedures, and emergency care.
• Perform diagnostic tests, such as radiographs, blood work, and urinalysis, and prepare samples for laboratory testing.
• Administer medications, vaccines, and treatments as prescribed by veterinarians.
• Monitor and care for patients, including pain management, wound care, and nutritional support.
• Perform venipuncture.
• Maintain accurate and detailed patient records in accordance with AAHA standards and clinic protocols.
• Educate and communicate with pet owners about their pet's health, treatment plans, and post-care instructions.
• Ensure proper sterilization and maintenance of surgical instruments and equipment.
• Assist with inventory management, including ordering and stocking supplies.
• Collaborate with a team that values experience, stability, and a positive work environment.

Qualifications

• Previous experience in a veterinary setting as a Veterinary Assistant
• Comfortable handling dogs and cats of all sizes and temperaments
• High school diploma or equivalent required

Benefits of Joining VCA Animal Hospitals

• Mental Health: Access to the Lyra mental health platform, including up to 12 therapy sessions per year, guided self-care, and meditation resources.
• Full Healthcare: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance with HSA/FSA options, as well as fertility benefits.
• Paid Time Off: Paid vacation, sick, parental, and bereavement leave.
• Financial Support: 100% employer-paid short-term and long-term
• Protection: Access to the Better Together Fund for crisis support in qualifying situations.
• Sponsorships: Penn Foster and VTNE test prep sponsorships, as well as VTNE prep courses.
• Discounts: Discounted Low-Stress Handling, Fear Free, and AAFP Cat-Friendly certifications, along with VETGirl and VIN subscriptions.
• Programs: Leadership development and mentorship programs.
• Retirement: 401(k) retirement savings plan with increasing employer contribution.
• Pet Care Perks: Generous pet care discounts and VIP programs.
• Legal Resources: Access to legal resources for common legal services.
• Transfer Opportunities: Nationwide hospital transfer opportunities.

Additional Benefits

Benefits: We offer competitive compensation along with a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, vision and paid vacation/sick days, 401(k), generous employee pet discounts and more!

Disclaimer

The information in this position description indicates the general nature and level of work to be performed. It is not designed to be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities, and qualifications required of associates assigned to this job. Management reserves the right to revise the job description or require that other tasks be performed when the circumstances of the job change (for example, emergencies, change in personnel, workload, or technical development)

Equal Opportunity

We are proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer - Veterans / Disabled. For a complete EEO statement please see our career page at vcacareers.com