Veterinary Assistant - Surgery

About the role

BluePearl Pet Hospital in Golden Valley, MN seeks a knowledgeable and skilled Veterinary Assistant to join our fast-paced Surgery Department.

Responsibilities

• Help veterinarians craft and review surgical plans and estimates as needed.
• Perform diagnostics including radiographs and lab work.
• Prepare patients for surgery and assist during procedures.
• Discharge patients and handle client communications.
• Participate in a rotating on-call schedule after completing training.

Requirements

• At least 2 years of veterinary medicine experience.
• Ability to perform phlebotomy and run bloodwork.
• Proficiency in physical exams including vital signs and assessments.
• Working knowledge of anesthesia/monitoring equipment and ASA I or II patient classifications.
• Current on R.E.C.O.V.E.R CPR guidelines and ability to perform designated CPR roles.
• Unrestricted, current authorization to work in the U.S.; not requiring future sponsorship for an employment-based green card.

Skills

• Assist with surgeries including GDV, FHO, TPLO, total hip replacements, etc.
• Maintain and organize three surgical suites and a dedicated packroom.
• Administer medications via appropriate routes and monitor therapeutic response.
• Understand classification of commonly used medications and associated side effects.

Benefits

• Trupanion pet insurance and associate discounts for pet treatments, procedures, and food.
• Annual continuing education allowance and free continuing education sessions through BluePearl University.
• Free VETgirl Elite membership.
• Opportunities to participate in local, regional, and international volunteer initiatives.
• Collaboration with Veterinary Technician Colleges and access to Penn Foster Scholarship reimbursement (90% for full-time associates).
• Hospital committees focused on associate wellbeing with monthly outings and events.
• Bi-annual merit increase opportunities.
• Competitive shift differentials for eligible hours worked.
• Medical, dental, vision, and life insurance options.
• Hinge Health membership and parental leave benefits.
• Flexible work schedules and 401k with retirement planning.
• Paid time off and floating holiday plans.
• Local and regional mental health and wellness benefits.

Pay

$19.00 - $28.00 per hour (starting point dependent on experience and advancement through Kahuna leveling system).

Schedule

• 4/10-hour shifts.
• Rotating on-call schedule required after training completion.
• Shift differentials: $3.50/hour Mon–Thurs 6 pm–8 am; $5.00/hour Fri–Sun 6 pm–8 am (4-hour minimum).
• On-call pay: double time plus call-in fee.