Veterinary Assistant (Full-Time)

DescriptionReports to Hospital ManagerThe Richmond SPCA is a non-profit organization located in the heart of Richmond, Virginia. As a leader in the field of animal welfare, we are cultivating a community committed to saving, protecting and enriching animal lives with a mission to provide education and resources to achieve and sustain a no-kill community. Annually, we rescue, rehabilitate and find homes for about 4,000 homeless animals while also providing our region with vital safety net programs designed to keep thousands of pets in loving homes and out of shelters. Our values of collaboration, creativity, honesty, inclusion and respect guide not only what we do – but how we do it.The Richmond SPCA’s Susan M. Markel Veterinary Hospital is a full-service, low-cost hospital with a mission to provide quality, accessible care to our community. On our hospital team, veterinary assistants perform basic diagnostic and treatment tasks, communicate with pet guardians during appointments, keep workspaces clean, assist with surgical prep and recovery of pet patients, and provide support to our licensed Doctors of Veterinary Medicine and Licensed Veterinary Technicians.Essential FunctionsPerform basic diagnostic and treatment tasks related to patient care after appropriate training period (ear cleaning, administration of vaccines, basic rapid testing, etc.)Communicate effectively and compassionately with pet guardians during appointments, include delivering education and counseling, and relay appropriate information to licensed staffHandling (leash-walking, lifting, and carrying) and medical restraint of dog and cat patients; placing and securing dogs and cats in carriers/kennelsProvide support to licensed Doctors of Veterinary Medicine and Licensed Veterinary TechniciansAssist with high-volume surgery via surgical prep and recovery of dogs and catsPerform clerical work, data entry into patient charts, and invoicing promptly and accurately, as neededRecognize abnormalities necessitating attention related to patient care (basic VITAL signs, triage protocols, etc.)Follow established operational protocols, patient care standards, safety guidelines, equipment handling procedures, and documentation requirements to ensure consistent, efficient, and compliant hospital operationsMaintain client confidentialityClean workspaces, exam rooms, kennels, and surgical areas, including sweeping, dusting, mopping, emptying trash, restocking suppliesParticipate in required trainings and meetingsOther related duties as assignedQualifications, Skills, And ExpectationsAlignment with the Richmond SPCA’s mission to achieve and sustain a no-kill community including promoting pet adoption and spaying/neuteringEffective, professional and empathetic customer service skills and communication (written and verbal) with the public, volunteers, and all Richmond SPCA employeesAttitude that contributes to a welcoming, accessible, compassionate and respectful atmosphereCommitment to the wellbeing of pet patients and clientsBasic medical knowledge or capacity to learn basic medical terminology and proceduresAbility to multi-task, follow directions (written and verbal), adapt, and accommodate changing demands productivelyAbility to respond appropriately during an emergency and to take direction from licensed veterinary staff and/or managementAbility to provide productive feedback to managementStrong work ethic, reliability, punctualityResourcefulness and ability to work independently in a mature, professional, and productive capacityTeam-oriented mindset with the ability to recognize a need for assistance and ask for helpStrong time management and prioritization skillsComputer skills and ability to learn new computer systems; knowledge of DaySmart Vet a plusExperience working in the veterinary field preferred, but not requiredBilingual (English and Spanish) preferred, but not requiredRequirementsComfort handling or learning to handle dogs and including fearful or fractious patientsWeekday availability; early morning and evening availability required (no nights or holidays)Be 18 years of age or olderHave reliable transportation, including during inclement weatherPhysical Job RequirementsAble to work with animals (including those who are sick or injured or who have behavior challenges) and around loud noises, cat litter, animal waste, allergens (pet dander, peanut butter), various chemicals, and disinfectantsAble to routinely lift 50 poundsAble to push/pull a large cartAble to bend, kneel, stoop, use stairs and use your arms in a repetitive mannerAble to physically restrain a dog weighing up to 50 poundsAble to be on your feet for a 10-hour shiftWilling to work in all weather conditionsHave physical strength to perform cleaning duties effectively and efficientlyWork EnvironmentSupportive, collaborative team environment that encourages and celebrates creativity and resourcefulnessHigh-volume, fast-paced environmentPotential for animal bites and scratches and zoonotic disease (transmitted from animals to people)Richmond SPCA employees are eligible to become clients of our low-cost, full-service Susan M. Markel Veterinary Hospital and have access to an Employee Assistance Program. Employees who average 15+ hours per week are eligible for voluntary (employee-paid) benefits including accident insurance, hospital indemnity and critical illness insurance. Employees who average 20+ hours a week can participate in our 401(k) retirement plan and have access to paid wellness leave.Full-time employees are eligible for insurance benefits, including medical, dental, and vision, life insurance, short-term and long-term disability, and paid personal leave.The Richmond SPCA is a qualified employer for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program.