Emergency Veterinary Assistant (Relief) - San Jose, CA

Veterinary Emergency Group (VEG) • San Jose, CA

22h • $21 - $52 • Onsite

About The Position

VEG is hiring a per diem Emergency Veterinary Assistant to support its emergency veterinary team in San Jose, California. The role provides hands-on support in a fast-paced emergency hospital, assisting with patient care, treatments, diagnostics, and communication with pet parents. It is also presented as an opportunity to learn and develop through mentorship and guided training, including pathways into advanced responsibilities. CPR and RECOVER Certified Rescuer training are provided. Duties are performed as permitted by state law.

Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• At least 1 year of experience in a veterinary assistant role.
• Basic computer skills and an understanding of practice management software and electronic medical record keeping.
• Excellent communication skills when collaborating with pet parents and team members.
• Fine motor skills for handling patients and medical equipment.
• Ability to stand for prolonged hours, kneel, and work on the floor.
• Ability to lift up to 25 kg independently and support up to 40 kg with assistance.
• Willingness to work in a noisy environment with strong or unpleasant odors.
• Availability to work nights, weekends, and holidays on a rotating or as-needed basis according to hospital needs.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment with people from varied backgrounds and personality types.
• Empathy and a people-centric approach, humility, ownership of work, curiosity, and commitment to learning and growth.

Nice To Haves

• Enrollment in an AVMA-accredited veterinary technology program.
• Emergency or specialty veterinary experience.

Responsibilities

• Welcome and support pet parents and triage incoming patients, helping guide them toward care.
• Assist with treatments, nursing care, and diagnostics, including bloodwork, imaging, catheter placement, and oxygen support.
• Work with credentialed veterinary technicians and veterinarians to set up and monitor anesthesia and sedation cases.
• Set up and manage IV fluids, blood transfusions, and medication administration.
• Assist with patient care in outpatient and inpatient settings, from exam rooms to treatment areas.
• Participate in patient rounds and help maintain continuity of care.
• Learn CPR and become a RECOVER Certified Rescuer through provided training.
• Develop toward advanced responsibilities, such as anesthesia support, ultrasound, and catheterization, through guided training pathways.

Benefits

• Competitive compensation, with a stated pay range of $21–$52 based on leveling and experience.
• Flexible work schedules.
• Employee referral program.
• Comfy scrubs and VEG swag.
• Food in the fridge for employees.

What This Job Offers

• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED