Emergency Veterinary Assistant (Relief) - Pittsburgh, PA

Veterinary Emergency Group (VEG)•Pittsburgh, PA

5d•Onsite

About The Position

VEG is hiring a per diem Emergency Veterinary Assistant to support emergency veterinary care in its Pittsburgh hospital. The assistant will help welcome and triage incoming patients, support pet parents and the clinical team, and assist with patient treatments, nursing care, diagnostics, and continuity of care. The role works alongside credentialed veterinary technicians and veterinarians and includes opportunities to learn through guided training, including CPR and RECOVER Rescuer certification, as well as advanced skills such as anesthesia support, ultrasound, and catheterization. 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 understanding of practice management software and electronic medical record keeping.
Strong communication skills when collaborating with pet parents and the team.
Fine motor skills for handling patients and medical equipment.
Ability to stand for prolonged periods, 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.

Nice To Haves

Enrollment in an AVMA-accredited veterinary technology program.
Emergency or specialty veterinary experience.
Empathy and a people-centric approach, including understanding different perspectives.
Humility, including acknowledging mistakes, sharing credit, and recognizing team accomplishments.
A strong sense of ownership and responsibility for work outcomes.
Curiosity and an ongoing interest in learning and developing skills.

Responsibilities

Welcome and support incoming patients, triage them, and help 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 support continuity of care.
Learn to perform CPR and pursue RECOVER Certified Rescuer certification; training is provided.
Develop advanced skills such as anesthesia support, ultrasound, and catheterization through guided training pathways.