Veterinary Assistant

The Veterinary Assistant (VA) will work under the direction of the attending Veterinarian and Licensed Veterinary Technician to provide high-quality care of pets from intake to discharge at our spay/neuter clinic at the Tumwater location. Veterinary Assistants perform duties within the scope of practice guidelines to include animal handling, surgical prep, and administration of vaccines and other treatments. They provide support in all facets of clinic operations including medical, administrative, and client interactions. Training is provided as needed for this unique position. Responsibilities include, but are not limited to: - Provide humane and safe care and treatment of animals at all times. - Assist and support all veterinary staff in providing high-quality care to ensure positive surgical outcomes. - Uphold all clinic protocols as set forth by management. - Maintain a safe, organized working space. - Set up clinic for surgery days. - Facilitate check-in and checkout process for clients & patients in collaboration with the Patient Services Coordinator and vet team. - Provide exceptional customer service at all times. - Conduct surgical prep, administration of vaccines, microchips, and other medications. - Monitor patients pre-surgery through recovery post-surgery. - Prepare surgical instruments and supplies for sterilization. - Provide assistance and guidance to volunteers as needed. - Support data entry of client and patient information to include charges, medical notes, and other documentation as required. - Participate in all aspects of the daily clinic flow, including administrative duties as needed. - Share responsibility for clinic sanitation and routine cleaning throughout the clinic day in accordance with clinic protocols. - Monitor inventory where indicated. - Maintain professional behavior and show respect and compassion in all situations. - Uphold the strict confidentiality of client, patient, and donor information and clinic/program policies. - Represent Pasado’s Safe Haven and Pet Services in a positive manner at all times. Required Skills/Qualifications: - Experience in a veterinary clinic setting in any capacity and safe handling practices for dogs and cats. - Be comfortable working at a fast pace as well as standing on your feet for long stretches of time. - Have a passion for animal welfare and compassion for all animals, with the drive and devotion to end pet over-population, shelter over-crowding, needless euthanasia, and animal cruelty. - Have a natural aptitude for working empathetically with marginalized populations with a commitment to address racial and economic injustice. - Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to convey information clearly, kindly, and effectively. - Be a collaborative, solution-focused team player. - Possess compassionate and direct communication skills, especially in difficult situations. Strong de-escalation skills are a plus. - Possess strong organizational skills - attention to detail and ability to prioritize are a must. - Willingness to grow and improve, take direction, coaching, and constructive feedback. - Demonstrate dependability through reliable attendance, punctuality, high-quality work, commitment to a positive work environment, and support for the team. - Be able to lift 35lbs without assistance. - Experience in high quality, high volume spay/neuter preferred but not required. Employee Benefits: - Medical, Dental and Vision Insurance (100% employer paid premium for employee coverage) - 401(k) + Company match up to 2% - Fully vested on day 1 - Discretionary Time Off - Paid Holidays (9 per year) - Supplemental Insurance Benefits available - At cost veterinary care, medications and pet food, when available - Pawternity leave and animal family member bereavement - Opportunities for Advancement Employment Details: - Regular Full-Time, Non-Exempt (36 hours per week). - Clinic days Monday – Thursday. - Occasional Friday or weekend coverage may be required with advanced notice. - Salary Range: $25-$34; Starting rate $25/hr, negotiable DOE.