Surgery Doctor's Assistant

VCA Animal Hospital • Los Angeles, CA

41d • $22 - $28

About The Position

The Surgery Doctor's Assistant is an essential member of our surgical service, responsible for supporting our board-certified surgeons in daily case coordination, client communication, and patient workflow management. This role ensures seamless transitions from consultation through surgery and discharge. The DA partners with doctors, technicians, and client service teams to provide an organized, efficient, and compassionate experience for both patients and clients. The ideal candidate thrives in a fast-paced specialty environment, demonstrates strong communication and organizational skills, and enjoys balancing medical and client-facing responsibilities.

Requirements

• Minimum 1 year of veterinary experience, ideally in a specialty or surgical environment.
• Excellent organization, communication, and client service skills.
• Proficiency with SmartFlow and WoofWare preferred, (training available)
• Ability to multitask and remain composed in a fast-paced clinical setting.
• Knowledge of orthopedic radiographic positioning preferred (training available).
• Compassionate, professional, and detail-oriented approach to patient and client care.

Responsibilities

• Partner directly with our surgeons to manage appointment and procedure workflows.
• Prepare, organize, and maintain medical records, including SmartFlow sheets for consultations, surgical procedures, and hospitalized patients.
• Support pre-operative workflows by coordinating diagnostics, consents, and client communications.
• Manage post-operative workflows, including discharges, recheck scheduling, and client follow-up.
• Create, review, and update treatment estimates; assist with discussing estimates and treatment plans with clients.
• Enter accurate charges and medical orders in WoofWare to ensure proper billing and recordkeeping.
• Obtain and assist with orthopedic radiographs, ensuring correct positioning and high-quality imaging.
• Administer, monitor, and recover patients from sedated procedures such as bandage changes, wound care, and diagnostic imaging.
• Maintain open communication with clients regarding surgical updates, post-operative care, and discharge instructions.
• Collaborate with technicians, assistants, and CSRs to support efficiency and patient flow throughout the day.
• Cross-train and provide assistance to related specialty services such as Anesthesia, Internal Medicine, Neurology, and ECC to enhance interdepartmental coordination.

Benefits

• Competitive pay and comprehensive benefits (medical, dental, vision, 401(k), CE support, uniforms, and more).
• Opportunities for cross-training, mentorship, and career advancement within a multi-specialty hospital.
• A supportive, growth-oriented culture that values teamwork, learning, and excellence in patient care.
• paid vacation/sick days
• 401(k)
• generous employee pet discounts

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Industry: Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services
• Education Level: No Education Listed