Veterinary Assistant New Sparta, NJ

Highlands Vet Hosp; Sparta Township, Northern (NJ, KY); On-site; USD 29,000 - 36,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental, vision insurance

Retirement plan with 401(k) matching

Paid time off

Employee pet discount

Employee referral bonus

Continuing education opportunities

Job summary

The Highlands Veterinary Hospital in Sparta, New Jersey, is hiring a full-time Veterinary Assistant to join our team of veterinarians, technicians, and support staff, ensuring high-quality care for every patient.

You will assist during exams and surgeries, handle gentle restraint, prepare rooms, perform basic lab tests, and communicate with pet owners. We offer a strong benefits package, paid time off, and 401(k) with company match.

Qualifications

• Previous experience working with animals in a veterinary setting is required.
• Technical know-how in disinfection, administering medication, and using diagnostic equipment.
• Physical ability to handle animals safely and compassionately.

Responsibilities

• Assist veterinarians and vet techs during examinations, treatments, and surgeries
• Handle and restrain animals safely and compassionately
• Prepare examination rooms and surgical areas by cleaning and sterilizing equipment and surfaces
• Perform basic laboratory tests, such as collecting blood, urine, and stool samples
• Administer medications and vaccinations under the supervision of a veterinarian
• Feed, bathe, and exercise animals as needed
• Maintain accurate medical records
• Communicate with pet owners about their pets’ care, treatment plans, and follow-up visits
• Clean and maintain the clinic, including stocking supplies and ensuring a safe and sanitary environment

Skills

Animal handling

Veterinary experience

Disinfection procedures

Medication administration

Patient communication

Tools

Diagnostic equipment

Job description

The Highlands Veterinary Hospital is hiring a full-time Veterinary Assistant to work alongside our team of experienced veterinarians, skilled technicians, and devoted support staff to ensure each animal receives the best possible care during their stay with us. If you are enthusiastic, reliable, and excited about helping us maintain our high standards of animal care and customer service, we would love to hear from you!

What to Expect

As you join our mission to create a better world for animals and the people who love them, expect to be supported in your work and home life with:

• All the benefits you deserve—medical, dental, vision, and retirement.
• Paid time off. Take the time you need to recharge.
• Employee pet discount because we know your pets are family, too.
• 401(k) with a generous company match to help you invest in your future while you care for pets today.
• Employee referral bonus. Earn $1,000 when you refer a new team member to one of our 180+ partner hospitals across the country.
• Continuing education opportunities for our licensed technicians to grow and thrive in their careers

Salary: $21.00 - $26.00 per hour, determined by the candidate's skills, experience, and qualifications.

Schedule: This is a full-time position. Monday - Friday and occasional Saturdays.

Key Responsibilities:

• Assist veterinarians and vet techs during examinations, treatments, and surgeries
• Handle and restrain animals safely and compassionately
• Prepare examination rooms and surgical areas by cleaning and sterilizing equipment and surfaces
• Perform basic laboratory tests, such as collecting blood, urine, and stool samples
• Administer medications and vaccinations under the supervision of a veterinarian
• Feed, bathe, and exercise animals as needed
• Maintain accurate medical records
• Communicate with pet owners about their pets’ care, treatment plans, and follow-up visits
• Clean and maintain the clinic, including stocking supplies and ensuring a safe and sanitary environment

Qualifications:

• Previous experience working with animals in a veterinary setting is required.
• Technical know-how in areas such as disinfection, administering medication, and using diagnostic equipment.
• Physical ability to handle animals safely and compassionately.

Physical Requirements:

• Must be able to lift up to 40 lbs individually and over 50 lbs with a team lift. Must be able to squat, bend, sit, and stand when needed and possibly for long periods of time.

About The Highlands Veterinary Hospital

Highlands Veterinary Hospital is a full-service veterinary medical facility located in Sparta, New Jersey, dedicated to providing compassionate, high-quality care for pets and their families. We treat dogs, cats, rabbits, ferrets, guinea pigs, birds, reptiles, and other small animals with services ranging from wellness exams and preventive care to diagnostics, surgical care, dental services, and emergency support—all delivered with respect, empathy, and professionalism. Our experienced team works collaboratively to ensure each patient receives personalized attention and the best possible treatment at every stage of life. We strive to build trusting relationships with our clients and their pets and are committed to fostering a positive, supportive environment for both patients and staff.

We are dedicated to establishing a culture that celebrates all forms of diversity and allows us to be an inclusive service provider in this community.