Veterinary Assistant - Inpatient Nursing - 2nd shift

COVE Animal Health; City of Middletown (NY); On-site; USD 20,000 - 23,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive paid time off

Comprehensive medical, dental, vision insurance

401(k) plan with strong employer match

Mental Health Focused Services

Supportive culture with social events

Job summary

COVE Animal Health is looking for a compassionate Veterinary Assistant to join our dynamic team in Middletown, NY. The role requires basic nursing care, animal handling, and collaboration with veterinary professionals. We offer competitive hourly wages, a supportive culture, and comprehensive benefits including medical, dental, vision insurance, and a 401(k) plan. Ideal candidates will have prior veterinary experience, strong communication skills, and a commitment to patient care. Join us to make a positive impact on the community and animal health.

Qualifications

• Experience in a veterinary setting preferred.
• Basic animal care tasks and handling skills.
• Strong interpersonal skills for client interaction.

Responsibilities

• Assist Veterinary Technicians and staff in a clinical setting.
• Perform basic nursing care and animal husbandry.
• Support the delivery of high-quality patient care.

Skills

Communication skills

Animal handling

Ability to multi-task

Team collaboration

Compassion

Tools

EzyVet

SmartFlow

Job description

Veterinary Assistant - Inpatient Nursing - 2nd shift

Are you a skilled and compassionate Veterinary Assistant ready to take your career to the next level in a dynamic and supportive environment?

At Pieper Memorial Veterinary Center, in Middletown, CT, we are proud to be a VECCS Level I Facility, committed not only to providing exceptional patient care but also to fostering the growth, well‑being, and success of our team.

Here, you will join a collaborative group of veterinary professionals who value mentorship, teamwork, and continuous learning. We strive to create a workplace where your passion for animal care is matched by opportunities to thrive, develop, and advance your career.

Our vision is simple: to make the community—and the animals and people in it—happier and healthier. If that resonates with you, we invite you to explore the opportunities waiting at Pieper.

What to Expect

• Commitment to Continuing Education: We want to retain and develop our talent to the best of our ability. You can expect numerous in‑house CE opportunities, and any mentoring available to support and achieve your career goals!
• Career Advancement: We pride ourselves on recognizing top talent and strong work ethic and if you demonstrate those things, you can expect to be promoted.
• Environment of Belonging: With so many specialties at your fingertips, it's easy to find where you fit. We also promote an environment of inclusivity so that everyone feels welcome.
• Environment of Collaboration: Our VECCS Level 1 Certified Hospital includes specialists in Emergency & Critical Care, Neurology, Internal Medicine, Radiology, Oncology, Surgery, and Exotics and a full staff of experienced Emergency and Primary Care Veterinarians. With the support of their technicians, assistants, and liaisons the hospital teams work closely together to deliver the highest quality of care.

About You

We believe veterinary medicine is truly a team sport, and we’re looking for a candidate who shares that mindset. This role is ideal for someone who thrives in a fast‑paced, evolving environment and communicates effectively with both colleagues and clients.

We are seeking an experienced Veterinary Assistant who is comfortable with basic nursing care, animal husbandry, handling/restraint, and assisting Veterinary Technicians and other staff in a clinical setting. Experience with EzyVet and SmartFlow is a plus but not required.

Collaboration is highly valued on our team, and we encourage every staff member to speak up—your input is not only welcomed but can make a meaningful difference in patient care and team success.

Compensation

$17.50–$21.00 per hour dependent upon experience / plus $2.00 an hour shift differential.

Anticipated Schedule

This is a full‑time position: Monday, Tuesday, Friday, and Saturday / 10‑hour shifts - 2 pm‑12 am OR 4 pm‑2 am. Holidays are required!

What’s in it for you?

• Supportive culture with social events & team building
• Competitive paid time off & holidays
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance
• Mental Health Focused Services
• 401(k) plan with strong employer match

We know it’s not always easy to make a move. We treat all interviews as confidential and if a casual chat is more your style, we can do that too! We genuinely love what we do and the people we work with!

Requirements

• Prior experience working in a veterinary setting preferred. Tech students are encouraged to apply.
• Experience in handling animals and performing basic animal care tasks.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills to interact with clients and team members.
• Ability to multi‑task and remain organized in a fast‑paced environment.
• Compassion and patience when handling animals.
• Basic knowledge of animal behavior and medical terminology.
• Ability to work well under pressure and in stressful situations.
• Ability to work collaboratively with veterinarians, technicians, and other staff members.
• Willingness to take direction and adapt to new tasks and procedures.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to follow instructions.
• Punctuality and reliability, with a commitment to maintaining a high standard of care.
• Positive attitude, professionalism, and a compassionate approach to client care.
• Willingness to continue learning and stay updated on veterinary practices.