Veterinary Assistant I - Emergency and Critical Care

Colorado State University•Fort Collins, CO

3d•$44,650 - $47,500•Onsite

About The Position

This position provides clinical and patient care support within the Cardiology service, assisting with outpatient appointments, diagnostic procedures, and overall workflow coordination. Responsibilities include patient handling and restraint, preparation for exams and procedures, basic monitoring, cleaning and stocking of clinical areas, and support for faculty, house officers, technicians, and students. The role also contributes to teaching and supporting student learning in the clinical setting and assists with administrative tasks related to appointment coordination and patient flow. They play a key role in maintaining efficient case flow, supporting high-quality patient care, and ensuring the service can meet increasing caseload demands.

Requirements

HS Diploma or GED plus one (1) year of experience caring for animals or providing animal handling duties OR HS Diploma or GED and a combination of related education and/or experience in an occupation related to the work assigned to this position equal to one (1) year.
Legally authorized to work in the United States by the proposed start date.
Pre-employment Criminal Background Check.

Responsibilities

Provide direct patient care to Critical Care Service patients under the direction of senior nurses and clinicians, including treatments, monitoring, venipuncture, IV catheter placement, CPR assistance, and accurate drug calculations.
Observe, assess, and recognize changes in patient status; properly triage patients and communicate concerns promptly to senior nurses or clinicians.
Perform nursing care and treatments for stable small animals, including those suspected or confirmed to have communicable infectious diseases, while following established protocols.
Properly restrain patients to ensure safety of patients, self, and others, and demonstrate caring and compassionate behavior at all times.
Support the instructional mission by assisting professional veterinary students, interns, residents, faculty, and staff with clinical techniques, protocols, procedures, and participation in shift change case rounds.
Maintain accurate and timely medical documentation and billing, including electronic medical records, treatment and observation sheets, clinicians’ orders, controlled drug forms, and patient discharge preparation.
Maintain cleanliness, organization, and functionality of service areas by cleaning and disinfecting rooms, maintaining equipment, monitoring drug and supply expiration dates, stocking supplies, and submitting work orders as needed.