Specialty Level 1 Veterinary Assistant

About the role

A Specialty Veterinary Assistant Level 1 (VA1) provides clients with a top-notch experience while assisting veterinarians and technicians with animal restraint, triaging incoming patients, procedures, maintaining a clean and sterile work environment, stocking the hospital, measuring and assessing patient vital signs, running diagnostic lab work, providing aftercare for deceased animals, and performing surgery prep and assisting in life-saving surgical procedures.

This position builds on the skills developed as a Kennel Assistant, increasing responsibility for client interactions and more advanced technical skills, including restraining animals for procedures, helping with lab work, and triaging and discharging patients. It is ideal for someone with Veterinary Assistant experience looking to deepen clinical skills and gain exposure to complex cases within a specialty setting.

Responsibilities

• Assist veterinarians and technicians with animal restraint and procedures
• Triage incoming patients
• Maintain a clean and sterile work environment
• Stock hospital supplies
• Measure and assess patient vital signs
• Run diagnostic lab work
• Provide aftercare for deceased animals
• Perform surgery prep and assist in life-saving surgical procedures
• Handle client interactions, including triaging and discharging patients
• Drive the DoveLewis transport van (valid Oregon or Washington driver’s license required)

Requirements

• Genuine love of and respect for all animals, with an appreciation of the human-animal bond
• Strong desire to problem solve and help others
• Excellent client service and teamwork skills
• High School Diploma or equivalent education/experience
• Valid Oregon or Washington driver’s license
• Understanding of animal behavior and knowledge of safe animal handling and transport practices
• 1+ year of experience working in a professional veterinary setting (specialty medicine experience preferred)

Benefits

• Equitable health benefits, including:
  • Medical, dental, and vision coverage
  • $0 mental health copays
  • Preventative care
  • LGBTQIA-friendly providers
  • Options for families
• Life Insurance
• Flexible Spending Account (medical and dependent care)
• Paid vacation and sick time
• Holiday pay
• Bereavement leave, including time off when a pet family member passes away
• 403(b) retirement account with free financial advising
• Student debt repayment assistance for all employees

Pay

$20–$22 hourly for Veterinary Assistant Level 1, with overnight and weekend differential pay available for applicable shifts.

Schedule

DoveLewis is a 24/7/365 emergency hospital with day, swing, and overnight shifts. The role requires the ability to work at least some weekends and holidays.