Veterinary Assistant

About the Role The Center for Bird and Exotic Animal Medicine (CBEAM) is seeking a motivated Veterinary Assistant to join our growing team of nineteen veterinarians and about forty support staff! We are a 24/7 emergency and primary care veterinary hospital for exotics–we provide compassionate and expert care for all species of non-traditional pets located near Seattle, WA. This requires specialized treatments, diagnostic protocols, state-of-the-art equipment, and facilities designed for these species. Our doctors' advanced training in exotic animal medicine make them uniquely qualified to offer wellness, emergency, and critical care for avian and exotic pets. Our hospital culture is very important to us and we are looking for the right candidate to invest in their professional development, continuing education, training and mentorship. Veterinary Assistants are invaluable members of the hospital team that work directly with our patients, clients, and support our doctors. They provide exceptional patient care while maintaining efficient client communication, safe patient handling, and accurate documentation. The ideal candidate will be able to work with any species, have excellent communication skills, and the ability to work independently in a fast-paced environment. Job Description Check in patients and request information from the owners including reason for the visit Clean, disinfect and prepare medical equipment between each appointment Administer vaccinations Administer medications and/or anesthesia to prepare animal patients for surgery Monitor and track vitals following surgery Calm, comfort and properly handle animals before, during and after procedures Take notes on examination results and updating records Feed, bathe and monitor animals during their visit Provide owners educational resources and information on how best to care for animals in general, for specific conditions and after various procedures Assist in holding and restraining animals during exams and surgical procedures Ensure exam and operating rooms are stocked and sterilized Change animal bandages, bedding, and kennel materials Basic knowledge of operation of medical equipment used to treat patients Ensure all cages and kennels are clean Assist in collecting samples such as blood or urine for testing Communicate with owners and families on surgery and recovery instructions Other duties as assigned Job Requirements Ability to move/lift/transport up to 40 pounds Ability to stand for extended periods of time and traverse stairs Ability to bend, stoop and kneel Ability to work with exposure to animal hair, dander, feces/urine and odors Ability to work with allergens such as hay Ability to work with cleaning chemicals (supplied with PPE) Willingness to handle a variety of species including small mammals, birds, reptiles and occasionally insects (provided proper training) Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and handle multiple tasks simultaneously Must be fluent in English (reading and writing) and can clearly communicate with clients over the phone Must be able to obtain and keep a current Medical Clerk License Qualifications: High School Diploma or equivalent Minimum 1-2 years in the veterinary field Exotic Animal Handling (preferred) Proven experience working in a team environment Job Type: Full-time Pay: $19.00 - $25.00 per hour Expected hours: 32 – 40 per week Benefits: Employee assistance program Flexible schedule Professional development assistance Tuition reimbursement Uniform allowance Schedule: 10 hour shift Day shift Evening shift Every weekend Holidays Weekends as needed Work Location: In person