Description

Emergency Veterinary Assistant

Department: Veterinary Assistants

Employment Type: Full Time

Location: Charlottesville, Virginia

Compensation: $18.00 - $20.00 / hour

Description

Veterinary Assistant - Emergency Department
Virginia Veterinary Specialty & Emergency

Are you passionate about helping animals when they need it most? Virginia Veterinary Specialty & Emergency is seeking a dedicated Veterinary Assistant to join our Emergency Department. This is your chance to be part of a highly skilled team that provides life-saving care and supports families 24/7.

As a Veterinary Assistant in our Emergency Department, you will work alongside veterinarians and licensed veterinary technicians (LVTs) to provide hands-on patient care and ensure smooth hospital operations. This position combines direct animal care, client support, and hospital upkeep—making it ideal for someone who thrives in a fast-paced, rewarding veterinary environment.

• Full-time schedule: 3 shifts per week, 12 hours each
• Dedicated to the Emergency Department (nights, weekends, and holidays may be required)
• Night differential pay available for evening and overnight shifts
• Opportunities for skill development and collaboration with experienced doctors, LVTs, and other assistants

Key Responsibilities

• Assist veterinarians and technicians during exams, procedures, and emergency treatments
• Safely restrain dogs, cats, and (occasionally) exotic pets
• Maintain cleanliness and sterility of instruments, equipment, and hospital facilities
• Record patient weights, process lab specimens, and update medical records
• Keep pharmacy, exam rooms, and patient areas clean, organized, and stocked
• Provide compassionate client communication and support
• Educate pet owners on medications, preventives, diets, and wellness recommendations
• Reinforce veterinarian instructions and ensure smooth appointment flow
• Perform additional tasks to support hospital operations as needed

Skills, Knowledge & Expertise

• At least 1 year of experience in veterinary medicine preferred
• Dependable, motivated, and detail-oriented
• Strong teamwork and communication skills
• Excellent cleaning and organizational abilities
• Comfortable working evenings, weekends, and holidays
• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs safely

Benefits

• Paid Time Off (PTO)
• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• Employee discounts on veterinary services
• Flexible scheduling options
• 401(k) with company match
• Career development and hands-on training opportunities

At Virginia Veterinary Specialty & Emergency, we know pets are family. Join our Emergency Department team and make a real difference in the lives of pets and their people every day.


Apply today to start your career as a Veterinary Assistant in our Emergency Department!

About Virginia Veterinary Specialty & Emergency

Virginia Veterinary Specialty & Emergency, is a specialty and emergency practice providing top-quality pet care. We are a fully equipped practice including a fully stocked surgical suite with electrocautery and full ventilator capability, a state-of-the-art digital x-ray machine with off-site STAT board-certified consults and opinions, ultrasound, glaucoma tonometry, complete in-house blood chemistry and analysis including clotting time analysis and electrolyte analysis, fresh animal blood products for transfusions, oxygen therapy and fluid therapy with electronic monitoring.

Our collaborative team is highly efficient and devoted to providing outstanding care. We take every step to give pets the best possible care and the first step is our wonderful staff.

Equal Opportunity Employer Policy

Virginia Veterinary Specialty & Emergency is an Equal Opportunity Employer and a member of E-Verify. We are proudly committed to recruiting and retaining a diverse and inclusive workforce. We do not discriminate based on age, race, gender, sexual orientation, religion, national origin, disability, or any other non-merit factor. All qualified applicants, including minorities, women, protected veterans, and individuals with disabilities are encouraged to apply.