Recovery Team Level 2 Veterinary Assistant

About the role

This role supports surgical and hospitalized patients as they transition safely following anesthesia and procedures. Working alongside Recovery Team Certified Veterinary Technicians (CVTs), veterinarians, surgery teams, and specialty services, Recovery Team VA2s help patients heal comfortably, move efficiently through care, and prepare for successful discharge.

Responsibilities

• Assist Recovery Team CVTs and veterinarians with recovery of patients following anesthesia and sedation procedures.
• Maintain a watchful eye on recovering patients under supervision and communicate concerns related to comfort, pain, mentation, or changes in condition.
• Support patient comfort through positioning, warming, bedding changes, cleanliness, and attentive nursing care.
• Administer approved medications, subcutaneous fluids, and low-risk IV medications within VA2 scope.
• Perform technical skills including IV catheter placement and phlebotomy with supervision as appropriate.
• Absorb inpatient treatments and nursing care to support continuity of care and patient flow.
• Work closely with surgery, anesthesia, specialty, and recovery teams to support seamless patient handoffs.
• Safely transport patients throughout the hospital for diagnostics, procedures, hospitalization, recovery, or discharge.
• Help prepare patients for transfer to inpatient teams or discharge.
• Participate in patient rounds and team communication to support continuity of care.
• Aid with patient discharges, medication preparation, and client education support.
• Complete callback communication to check on patient recovery following discharge.
• Communicate professionally and compassionately with clients regarding recovery and care needs.
• Support communication with referring veterinary hospitals as directed.
• Maintain clean, organized, and well-stocked recovery and treatment areas.
• Support cleaning and turnover of treatment and recovery spaces to help patients move efficiently through care.
• Prepare and maintain clean kennel environments.
• Assist with laundry, stocking, and general hospital organization.
• Drive the DoveLewis transport van as needed to support patient care.
• Contribute to a collaborative, fast-paced team environment focused on excellent patient outcomes.

Requirements

• Minimum one year of veterinary experience preferred, including experience with phlebotomy and IV catheter placement, or enrollment in an AVMA-accredited veterinary technician program.
• Strong interest in patient nursing care, surgery, recovery, or specialty medicine.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, team-oriented hospital environment.
• Strong communication, organization, and attention to detail.
• Career-focused and committed to learning and professional development.

Qualifications

• Valid Oregon or Washington driver’s license required for patient transport responsibilities.

Skills

• Excellent communication skills.
• Attention to detail and ability to multitask.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Knowledge of veterinary medical terminology and procedures.
• Basic computer skills for managing patient records and scheduling.

Benefits

At DoveLewis, we offer a comprehensive benefits package that includes:

• Health insurance coverage.
• Paid time off and holidays.
• Professional development opportunities.
• Flexible work schedule.
• Opportunities for career advancement.

Pay

The salary range for this position is $18.00 - $22.00 per hour, depending on experience and qualifications.

Schedule

The schedule for this position is typically Monday through Friday, with some weekend and evening hours required.