Veterinary Assistant -LA

The University of Georgia; Athens (GA); On-site; USD 19,000 - 26,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of Georgia is seeking a Veterinary Assistant II for the Large Animal Hospital in the Athens area. The role involves handling animal patients (primarily horses and cows) and supporting LVTs, clinicians and students in patient care.

General shifts are 8–10 hours with varied days, including weekends and holidays. Requires a high school diploma or equivalent with 2 years of related experience; experience with large animals in an emergency setting is preferred.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent and 2 years of related experience.

Responsibilities

• Handle animal patients in the Large Animal Hospital, including horses and cows; assist clinicians, LVTs, students and client support coordinators in patient care.
• Perform handling/restraint and support procedures such as lameness exams, radiology, standing surgeries and related tasks.

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Job description

Posting Number:

S15575P

Working Title:

Veterinary Assistant -LA

Department:

VetMed-VTH Large Animal Hosp

About the University of Georgia:

Chartered by the state of Georgia in 1785, the University of Georgia is the birthplace of public higher education in America and is the state’s flagship university (https://www.uga.edu/). The proof is in our more than 240 years of academic and professional achievements and our continual commitment to higher education. UGA is currently ranked among the top 20 public universities in U.S. News & World Report. The University’s main campus is located in Athens, approximately 65 miles northeast of Atlanta, with extended campuses in Atlanta, Griffin, Gwinnett, and Tifton. UGA employs approximately 3,100 faculty and more than 7,700 full‑time staff. The University’s enrollment exceeds 41,000 students including over 31,000 undergraduates and over 10,000 graduate and professional students. Academic programs reside in 19 schools and colleges, including our newly established School of Medicine.

About the College/Unit/Department:

The University of Georgia College of Veterinary Medicine, founded in 1946, is dedicated to training future veterinarians, providing services to animal owners and veterinarians, and conducting investigations to improve the health of animals as well as people. The college benefits pets and their owners, food‑producing animals, and wildlife by offering the highest quality hospital and diagnostic laboratory services. Equipped with the most technologically advanced facilities located on a university campus, the college is dedicated to safeguarding public health by studying emerging infectious diseases that affect both animal and human health.
The College of Veterinary Medicine values all members of the university community, recognizing that differences in experience and culture can only lead to a more well‑rounded, accepting academic environment as embodied in our Principles of Community (http://vet.uga.edu/principles-of-community/)

College/Unit/Department website:

https://vet.uga.edu/hospital-and-primary-care/hospital/

Posting Type:

External

Retirement Plan:

TRS

Employment Type:

Employee

Benefits Eligibility:

Benefits Eligible

Full/Part time:

Full Time

Additional Schedule Information:

General 8-10 hour shifts with varied days based on the unit. May include weekends and holidays.

Advertised Salary:

$16.92 per hour, experience considered.

Posting Date:

08/05/2026

Open until filled:

Yes

Proposed Starting Date:

09/13/2026

Location of Vacancy:

Athens Area

EEO Policy Statement:

The University of Georgia is an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, color, disability, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex, or veteran status or other protected status. Persons needing accommodations or assistance with the accessibility of materials related to this search are encouraged to contact Central HR ([e-mail]).

USG Core Values Statement:

The University System of Georgia is comprised of our 25 institutions of higher education and learning, as well the System Office. Our USG Statement of Core Values are Integrity, Excellence, Accountability, and Respect. These values serve as the foundation for all that we do as an organization, and each USG community member is responsible for demonstrating and upholding these standards. More details on the USG Statement of Core Values and Code of Conduct are available in USG Board Policy 08.02.18.01.02.
Additionally, USG supports Freedom of Expression as stated in Board Policy 06.05 Freedom of Expression and Academic Freedom.

Classification Title:

Veterinary Assistant II

FLSA:

Non-Exempt

FTE:

1.0

Minimum Qualifications:

High school diploma or equivalent and 2 years of related experience

Preferred Qualifications:

Experience working with Large animals in an emergency setting.

Position Summary:

This position is responsible for handling animal patients in the Large Animal Hospital. Handling/restraint of large animals includes multiple species: Primarily horses/cows, but may include sheep, pigs, goats and camelids. The handler is expected to be able to safely handle all temperaments of horses. This includes handling for lameness exams (jogging/lunging), procedures, standing surgeries, radiology/bone scan, neuro exams and stallion collection. Other duties include assisting LVT’s/Clinicians/Students/Client Support Coordinator in any capacity as needed for patient care