Veterinary Assistant - Large Animal

Michigan State University; East Lansing (MI); On-site; USD 36,000 - 48,000; Full time

Job summary

Michigan State University’s Veterinary Medical Center seeks a Veterinary Assistant for the Large Animal unit. The role supports clinicians, technicians and students by monitoring patients—tracking vitals, assisting with IV fluids, and restraining horses as needed.

Responsibilities include cleaning wards, stocking supplies, processing and submitting lab samples, and entering data in the hospital system. Candidates should have a high school diploma and some veterinary experience.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Six months to one year of related work experience in a veterinary practice preferred.
• Experience with horse handling or equine behavior desired.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to maintain accurate records with basic computer skills.

Responsibilities

• Assist clinicians, veterinary technicians and students with patient care in the Large Animal unit.
• Monitor patients for temperature, pulse and respiration; assist with IV fluids as prescribed.
• Restrain large animal species and work safely around horses during handling and jogging.
• Clean and stock ward areas; maintain supplies and organize medications and samples.
• Enter information in the hospital information system and process lab samples and orders.

Skills

Horse handling

Record-keeping

Typing/basic computer skills

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Job description

Working/Functional Title

Veterinary Assistant - Large Animal

Position Summary

Provide assistance with patient care for animals in the Large Animal unit of the Veterinary Medical Center Hospital; assists clinicians, veterinary technicians and clinical students by monitoring patients for temperature, pulse and respiration, IV fluid administrative, etc.; walking animals outside, jogging horses, restraining all large animal species; cleaning ward areas, stocking supplies, processing and submission of lab samples and medication orders; entering information in the hospital information system.

Minimum Requirements

Knowledge normally acquired through a high school education; six months to one year of related work experience in a veterinary practice, maintaining accurate records, typing and basic computer skills; experience with horse handling or equine behavior; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

Desired Qualifications

Self motivated individual with a strong understanding of large animal species, including handling, jogging and restraint.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, citizenship, age, disability or protected veteran status.

Required Application Materials

• Cover Letter
• Resume
• Three professional references

Work Hours

Friday, Saturday, Sunday, and Monday 7pm-5am

Website

CVM.MSU.EDU

Summary of Physical Demands

Lifting and carrying up to 50lbs individually or up to 150lbs as a team.

Summary of Health Risks

Potential exposure to animal or specimens with Mycobacterium Bovis. Work with animals or unfixed animal tissue. Wears respirator(does not include paper dust mask worn for comfort)

Bidding eligibility ends May 26, 2026 at 11:55 P.M.