Veterinary Assistant
Position Overview
The purpose of this position is to assist technicians and veterinarians with the flow of admitted and discharged patients. Must be able to withstand unpleasant odors and noises. May be exposed to bites scratches animal waste and contagious diseases.
Reporting Structure
Directly reports to the Practice Manager and Medical Director. Works alongside the Assistants and Technicians.
Primary Responsibilities
Patient Care
- Provides client service and administers care to hospitalized and inpatient pets.
- Admits surgical dental and admitted patients throughout the day.
- Gathers history and reviews treatment plans.
- Coordinates care of admitted patients with the inpatient veterinarian.
- Collects samples.
- Opens templates and enters patient history.
- Communicates orders to appropriate staff.
- Assists with intravenous catheters starting fluids and other treatments.
- Assists the veterinarian with exams and treatments for admitted patients.
- Assists other team members ensuring that all hospitalized patients are monitored and cared for and that their environments are clean and comfortable.
Client Relations
- Prepares hospital release instructions.
- Packages up items to go home (e.g. medications food instructions).
- Assists with the discharge of hospitalized surgical and dental patients.
Personal Conduct
- Adheres to all hospital policies standards and procedures including but not limited to uniforms grooming smoking and personal calls as stated in the hospital procedures manual.
- Serves as a representative of the hospital displaying courtesy tact consideration and a positive attitude in all interactions with clients patients and other staff members.
- Demonstrates initiative in everyday duties by seeking other work during down times assisting other employees and filling in for other employees as needed.
- Adheres to the posted work schedule. Arrives for work promptly and begins work at the start time. Follows hospital policies for reporting lateness or absences.
- Utilizes the time clock to clock in and out at the beginning and end of each day and during breaks.
- Organizes work area and exercises time-management skills to maximize personal efficiency.
- Prioritizes tasks and handles multiple tasks in a calm organized manner.
Additional Duties
- Attends departmental and staff meetings.
- Answers pages from Client Service Representative (receptionist) for assistance.
- Processes technician appointments.
- Processes pharmacy requests.
- Helps with examination room appointments.
- Assists staff members as needed with call-backs logging drugs and other duties as assigned.
- Keeps the treatment area clean and stocked.
- Performs other duties as directed.
Requirements
- HS diploma or educational equivalent.
- At least one year of recent experience in veterinary practice or medical environment with increasing responsibilities.
- Ability to properly restrain patients.
- Knowledge of spelling and meaning of commonly used veterinary medical terminology and procedures.
- Ability to complete assigned tasks in the time allotted without direct supervision.
- Demonstrated ability to show empathy toward clients and treat animals with respect and compassion.
- Excellent interpersonal communication skills.
- A commitment to outstanding client service.
- Ability to lift objects weighing 40 pounds without assistance and objects weighing more than 40 pounds with assistance.
- Ability to stay on task and work energetically for entire shift sometimes exceeding 8 hours per day.
At AmeriVet were committed to your growth development well-being and success. We empower team members with the resources support and opportunities needed to thrive in their careers and make a lasting impact in our communities.
Heres what you can expect when you join our team:
Tailored development programs mentorship and career pathing to help you achieve your unique goals.
Competitive pay performance bonuses 401(k) matching and student loan assistance to foster your financial well-being.
Health dental vision life insurance and mental health resources to support your overall well-being.
Generous paid time off and holidays because your personal time matters.
A supportive collaborative environment where everyone feels a sense of belonging.
*Please note: Any Benefits listed above apply to full-time employees.*
At AmeriVet your unique skills and passion are celebrated and every team member has the tools to thrive. Our people-focused approach is centered on helping you grow in your career while making a meaningful impact on the communities we serve.