Veterinary Assistant - Companion Animal Hospital

Helen Woodward Animal Center; Rancho Santa Fe (CA); On-site; USD 10,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

Join a leading veterinary team as a Veterinary Assistant at a state-of-the-art Companion Animal Hospital. You will assist with surgeries, provide daily care for pets, and gain hands-on experience in a compassionate, fast-paced environment. This role offers opportunities for training and growth, along with a strong commitment to animal welfare.

Benefits

Hands-on experience with a wide range of animals

Opportunities for training and growth within the hospital

Medical, Dental, Vision, PTO, and more

Qualifications

• Prior experience with animals or in a vet environment preferred.
• Comfortable lifting up to 55 lbs and handling animals.
• Valid Driver's License with a clean driving record required.

Responsibilities

• Prepare patients for appointments and obtain medical histories.
• Assist with medical and surgical procedures.
• Provide daily care including feeding and grooming.

Skills

Attention to detail

Problem solving

Communication

Job description

Veterinary Assistant - Companion Animal Hospital Full-Time | Various Shifts, Including Weekends & Holidays as Needed Hourly Pay: $19.75 - $24.00 (Based on Experience)

Are you passionate about animals and eager to grow your skills in a fast-paced, supportive veterinary environment? Join our team at the state-of-the-art Companion Animal Hospital inside Helen Woodward Animal Center, where every day is an opportunity to make a real impact on the lives of pets and the people who love them.

As a Veterinary Assistant, you'll be right in the action-assisting with surgeries, helping pets recover, feeding and grooming our furry patients, and making sure they get the care (and love) they need. You'll gain hands-on experience with routine medical tasks like giving vaccines, administering medications, and prepping surgical packs. Plus, you'll get a behind-the-scenes look at how shelter medicine works-where compassion, quick thinking, and teamwork come together to help every animal get their best shot at a healthy, happy life.

What You'll Do:

• Prepare patients for appointments, obtaining medical histories and documentation
• Assist with medical and surgical procedures
• Provide daily care including feeding, grooming, and hygiene
• Prepare and sterilize surgical equipment
• Administer medications and vaccinations
• Maintain accurate medical records and client communication
• Support a compassionate, safe, and clean hospital environment
• Schedule appointments and procedures

What We're Looking For:

• Prior experience with animals, customer service, or kennel/vet environments preferred
• Comfortable lifting up to 55 lbs and handling animals with challenging behavior
• Strong attention to detail and problem-solving skills
• Clear, professional communication and a team-first mindset
• Ability to work weekends, holidays, and varied shifts as needed
• Valid Driver's License and clean driving record (some driving may be required)

Perks of the Role:

• Work alongside a knowledgeable and supportive veterinary team
• Hands-on experience with a wide range of animals
• Opportunities for training and growth within the hospital
• Medical, Dental, Vision, PTO, and more

Helen Woodward Animal Center is a smoke-free workplace. Smoking is not permitted in any building or vehicle on campus.