Veterinary Technician Assistant

Ecovets Veterinary Specialists And Er; Saint Augustine (FL); On-site; USD 19,286 - 24,796; Full time

Job summary

Ecovets Veterinary Specialists And Er in Saint Augustine, FL is hiring a Veterinary Technician Assistant to support veterinarians and technicians in patient care, procedures, and clinic operations.

Responsibilities include taking vital signs, collecting history, handling and restraining animals, assisting with blood work, phlebotomy, vaccinations, and basic treatments, while ensuring compassionate care and safety for staff and pets.

Qualifications

• High school diploma required; Veterinary Assistant program certificate optional.
• Proven experience as a Veterinary Assistant or similar is preferred.
• Must be able to work nights, weekends, and holidays in a 24/7 hospital setting.

Responsibilities

• Assist veterinarians and technicians in patient care and procedures.
• Perform routine in-house blood work and sample handling.
• Observe patients for status changes and record vitals and history.
• Assist with radiographs, ultrasounds, and other imaging as needed.
• Provide compassionate restraint and comfort to animals during treatment.
• Maintain cleanliness and readiness of facilities and equipment.

Skills

Phlebotomy

Vital signs

Medical documentation

Animal restraint

CPR basics

Team collaboration

Education

High school diploma

Vet assistant certificate (optional)

Job description

Job Location: 135 CUMBERLAND PARK DRIVE - SAINT AUGUSTINE, FL 32095

A Veterinary Technician Assistant supports veterinarians and veterinary technicians in providing care to animals, performing various tasks such as patient care, assisting in medical procedures, and maintaining clinic operations. They play a vital role in animal healthcare, providing essential support to veterinarians, and ensuring the well‑being of animals in their care. Veterinary assistants must be able to successfully divide their time between assisting veterinary technicians, veterinary receptionists, and veterinarians.

Technical Proficiency

• Basic knowledge of veterinary medicine and animal husbandry
• Basic knowledge of animal anatomy, behavior, and medical terminology
• Perform routine in–house blood work to include blood gas, Procyte, Catalyst, blood type/cross match, blood smear, PCV/TS, lactometer, glucometer, PT/PTT, VCM, etc.
• Appropriately prepare, handle, and submit specimens to outside laboratories
• Possess the ability to observe patients and recognize subtle changes in status
• Provide comfort to animals during their treatment
• Gather basic vital signs, weight and history on patients and place notes into the medical record
• Triage and assist with stabilizing patients
• Confident phlebotomy and IV catheter placement
• Properly administer medical treatment including PO, IM, IV, and SQ medications
• Knowledgeable of the basics in CPR and assist during emergencies and/or surgeries
• Assist with ultrasounds, radiographs, and/or advanced imaging procedures
• Provide restraint of patients in a safe, effective, and compassionate manner without risk to patients, self, and others
• Monitor patient’s vital signs while under sedation and/or anesthesia
• Assist with inventory management
• Exceptional and advanced compassionate nursing care

Equipment and Facility Maintenance

• Maintain cleanliness of facilities and ensure smooth workflow such as cleaning cages, sterilizing equipment, stocking treatment areas, and cleaning examination tables and rooms
• Maintain cleanliness and readiness of equipment
• Troubleshoot and use equipment such as syringe pumps, IV pumps, and other multiparameter monitors

Communication and Documentation

• Accurate and organized record‑keeping
• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to communicate effectively with pet owners and team members
• Educate owners on medications, husbandry, and recommend practices for their pets as directed by the veterinarian
• Provide compassionate support and education to pet owners regarding care and treatment options

Skills & Competencies

• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail
• Sharp attention to detail and the ability to prioritize and multi‑task
• Ability to follow instructions properly
• Willingness and availability to stay late or work through breaks, when needed, to assist with emergency or critical patients
• Maintain a positive outlook and follow ECoVets policies including the Employee handbook
• Adhere to your work schedule. Be on the floor ready to work at the start of your shift
• Demonstrate initiative and teamwork in your duties each day

Qualifications

• High school diploma; a certificate from a Veterinary Assistant program - optional
• Proven experience as a Veterinary Assistant or similar position working with animals for at least a year
• 24/7 hospital setting (nights, weekends, holidays required)

Physical Stamina

• Ability to meet the physical demands of the job (often requires lifting 40 to 50 plus lbs)
• Exposure to infectious diseases and potentially aggressive animals
• Ability to withstand prolonged periods of standing, bending, and kneeling
• Manual dexterity for handling animals and delicate procedures