Overnight Veterinary Assistant

Animal Rescue League Of Iowa • Des Moines, IA

6d • Onsite

About The Position

The Animal Rescue League of Iowa is seeking a compassionate and dependable Overnight Veterinary Assistant to join our Medical team. This position provides overnight monitoring, care, and support for animals receiving medical treatment at ARL Main and Clowder House. This is a great opportunity for someone with a veterinary medical background who is comfortable working independently and wants to make a meaningful difference for animals during the hours when they may need extra attention most. This role provides overnight support for the animals current in care and is the first call an animal may need to be taken in after hours. The Animal Rescue League of Iowa is Iowa’s largest nonprofit animal welfare organization, helping animals and the people who love them through sheltering, adoption, veterinary care, animal services, community programs, and pet support resources. Across multiple locations and programs in the Des Moines metro, the ARL works every day to provide compassionate care, practical support, and trusted resources for animals and families in our community.

Requirements

• High school diploma or GED, required.
• At least one year of Veterinary Assistant or related veterinary medical experience.
• Ability to work independently overnight and use sound judgment.
• Strong attention to detail, communication, and problem-solving skills.
• Comfort working with animals of varying sizes, temperaments, and medical needs.
• Basic computer proficiency, including Microsoft Office.

Nice To Haves

• Veterinary Technician certification or equivalent veterinary medical experience preferred but not required.

Responsibilities

• Provide overnight monitoring and medical care for animals at ARL Main and Clowder House.
• Complete wellness rounds to ensure animals remain safe, comfortable, and receive timely attention.
• Administer medications and treatments as directed by veterinary staff.
• Monitor hospitalized patients and communicate changes to the on-call veterinarian.
• Assist with after-hours animal intakes as needed.
• Provide care for neonatal kittens, including feeding, cleaning, and monitoring.
• Maintain accurate records and help prepare medical areas for the next day.
• Follow safety, sanitation, medical, and low-stress animal handling procedures.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• Employer-paid long-term disability and basic life insurance
• Supplemental insurances, including short-term disability, supplemental life insurance, accident, and critical illness insurance
• 401(k) retirement plan with an employer contribution
• Veterinary benefits
• Work-life balance through our expansive holiday and paid time off policies

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: High school or GED