Veterinary Assistant Trainee

Ethos Veterinary Health • Bel Air, MD

15d • Onsite

About The Position

The Veterinary Assistant Trainee role offers a paid training pathway for people interested in building a career in veterinary medicine; no previous veterinary experience is required. The Veterinary Assistant Training Program combines education, hands-on training, and support while trainees work toward Veterinary Assistant certification. Starting compensation is $15 per hour during the program, with compensation increases upon program completion and again once credentialed. The position is based in Bel Air, Maryland, and works four shifts per week, typically eight hours each, with scheduling that may include day, evening, or overnight shifts. Flexibility is required, and shifts may run longer than scheduled according to hospital needs.

Trainees progressively support veterinarians and veterinary technicians with patient care and hospital operations. They learn animal handling and restraint, basic husbandry and patient care, veterinary record-keeping, and when to request assistance or escalate concerns. They also help maintain clean and stocked treatment areas, transport patients, protect client and patient confidentiality, and complete required coursework, hands-on training, and program milestones within six months. Career development opportunities may include advancing as a Veterinary Assistant, pursuing a pathway toward Veterinary Technician credentials, or exploring other opportunities as skills and experience grow.

Requirements

• A high school diploma or equivalent.
• Ability and commitment to complete all required training and program milestones within six months.
• A work, school, volunteer, or other history demonstrating genuine interest, engagement, and commitment.
• Discipline and time-management skills to balance online learning, hands-on training, and daily work responsibilities.
• Self-awareness to ask questions, seek help, and recognize the boundaries of one's knowledge, training, and role.
• A positive, team-oriented approach and willingness to collaborate.
• Dependability, punctuality, and follow-through on commitments.
• Strong communication and listening skills when working with clients and colleagues.
• Ability to adapt to changing priorities and remain effective in a busy, high-stress environment.
• Basic computer skills and comfort learning new technology and systems.
• Ability to meet physical demands, including standing and moving for extended periods, frequent bending and reaching, safely lifting and carrying up to 50 pounds, and assisting with movement and handling of animals of varying sizes.
• Flexibility to work varying schedules based on hospital needs, including nights, weekends, and holidays; shifts may extend beyond their scheduled duration.

Responsibilities

• Support veterinarians and veterinary technicians in delivering patient care.
• Learn safe animal handling and basic restraint techniques.
• Support basic husbandry, hygiene, comfort, and care of patients.
• Communicate professionally with veterinary technicians, doctors, hospital team members, and clients while supporting patient care and hospital operations.
• Learn basic veterinary record-keeping procedures.
• Recognize when assistance is needed and escalate questions or concerns to the appropriate team member.
• Clean and disinfect treatment areas, kennels, and equipment.
• Restock medical supplies and treatment areas.
• Assist with patient transport and provide support throughout the hospital within the scope of training.
• Maintain client and patient confidentiality.
• Complete required coursework, hands-on training, and program milestones.
• Work collaboratively with the veterinary team.

Benefits

• Full health care packages, including medical, dental, and vision coverage.
• Pet service discounts and employee pet wellness days.
• Discounted pet bloodwork.
• Cell phone discounts.
• Insurance and 401(k).
• Free therapy and Employee Assistance Program.
• Employee professional mentorship programs.
• Onsite classes, training, and continuing education opportunities.
• VTS support groups, resources, webinar training, and mentorship to specialize in emergency and critical care.
• Rabies vaccinations.
• Referral bonuses.
• Continuing education and conference allowance.
• Coverage of license and professional fees.
• $3 per hour overnight shift differential.
• $4 per hour weekend shift differential.
• Compensation increase upon completion of the training program and once credentialed.

What This Job Offers

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