Veterinary Assistant - Cardiology

VCA Animal Hospitals, Inc; San Diego (CA); On-site; USD 28,000 - 34,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical insurance

Dental insurance

Pet discounts

Job summary

VCA Emergency Animal Hospital & Referral Center in San Diego, CA is seeking a Veterinary Assistant to support our Cardiology Department. The role involves assisting with outpatient and inpatient care, diagnostic procedures, and client communication in a state-of-the-art facility.

We offer a competitive compensation package and a comprehensive benefits program. This full-time position requires weekday availability and occasional holiday coverage, with a schedule of 4x10-hour shifts and rotating

Qualifications

• 1–2 years of experience in veterinary practice.
• Previous experience in a specialty practice or Veterinary Cardiology preferred, but not required.
• Strong communication skills and ability to multitask in a fast-paced environment.
• Ability to handle and restrain both dogs and cats, including patients with medical complexity.
• Team-oriented attitude, strong work ethic, attention to detail.
• Full-time availability, with weekday shifts and occasional holiday coverage.

Responsibilities

• Assisting with outpatient appointments and inpatient care under the direction of the cardiologist
• Preparing and assisting with advanced diagnostic procedures
• Placing IV catheters, performing venipuncture, running in-house lab work, and administering medications
• Monitoring patients pre-, intra-, and post-procedure, including recovering patients from sedation or anesthesia
• Maintaining accurate medical records and detailed treatment logs
• Providing clear and compassionate communication with clients regarding patient care, discharge instructions, and follow-up
• Maintaining a clean, organized, and well-stocked work environment
• Collaborating effectively with doctors, technicians, and support staff across departments

Job description

VCA Emergency Animal Hospital & Referral Center is looking for a Veterinary Assistant to support our Cardiology Department. VCA Emergency Animal Hospital & Referral Center is a 24-hour emergency and specialty referral hospital located in the heart of beautiful San Diego, California. As part of our continued growth and the recent opening of our brand-new, state-of-the‑art facility in July 2025, we are seeking a dedicated and skilled Veterinary Assistant (VA) to join our Cardiology team. We offer advanced diagnostics and treatments and are committed to compassionate, high‑quality care for our patients and clients. The successful candidate will work closely with our cardiology doctors and support staff to manage complex cases and provide exceptional care.

Location

7675 Mission Valley Rd, San Diego, CA 92108

Salary

$ 20 - $ 25 / hour

Schedule

Full‑Time, 4x10‑hour shifts; service days are Monday - Thursday and alternating Saturdays, 8 am - 6:30 pm.

Responsibilities

• Assisting with outpatient appointments and inpatient care under the direction of the cardiologist
• Preparing and assisting with advanced diagnostic procedures
• Placing IV catheters, performing venipuncture, running in‑house lab work, and administering medications
• Monitoring patients pre-, intra-, and post‑procedure, including recovering patients from sedation or anesthesia
• Maintaining accurate medical records and detailed treatment logs
• Providing clear and compassionate communication with clients regarding patient care, discharge instructions, and follow‑up
• Maintaining a clean, organized, and well‑stocked work environment
• Collaborating effectively with doctors, technicians, and support staff across departments

Qualifications

• 1-2 years of experience in veterinary practice
• Previous experience in a specialty practice or Veterinary Cardiology Medicine preferred, but not required
• Strong communication skills and ability to multitask in a fast‑paced environment
• Confidence in handling and restraining both dogs and cats, including patients with medical complexity
• A team‑oriented attitude with a strong work ethic and attention to detail
• Flexibility to work full‑time, with availability for weekday shifts and occasional holiday coverage

Join our collaborative and supportive team in an environment where growth, learning, and high‑level patient care are top priorities.

Benefits

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

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!

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