Veterinary Assistant

ANIMAL CARE & CONTROL OF NYC • New York, NY

17d • Onsite

About The Position

The Veterinary Assistant supports licensed veterinary technicians and veterinarians in providing basic animal care in a shelter. The role includes conducting initial screening examinations, documenting medical findings, administering medical treatments and medications, providing photographic documentation and data entry, bathing and grooming animals, and assisting the veterinary team as directed. The Veterinary Assistant also performs basic department maintenance to support its smooth operation.

This position is based in the medical department at an ACC location, with occasional flexibility to work at other locations. The work environment may include outdoor tasks in varied weather, noisy conditions, animal fur, odors, and airborne particles. Employees are expected to remain calm and professional in stressful situations involving animals or the public.

Requirements

• High school diploma or GED.
• At least 12 months of experience working with animals in a veterinary or shelter setting.
• Must be willing to apply for certification as a euthanasia technician.
• Ability to lift at least 50 pounds and stand for prolonged periods.
• Ability to remain calm and professional in stressful situations involving animals and/or members of the public.

Nice To Haves

• Some college education.
• Good written and oral communication skills.
• Basic computer skills, including a basic understanding of medical terminology.
• Dependable, reliable, and efficient.

Responsibilities

• Provide safe and effective restraint for procedures.
• Assist with all aspects of surgery, including preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative tasks.
• Obtain basic vital signs of hospitalized animals when directed and notify veterinarians when readings fall outside normal parameters.
• Understand basic pharmacology, including medication abbreviations and purposes, to help administer oral and topical medications.
• Assist with diagnostic procedures and tests, including radiographs, blood work, and cultures.
• Assist with feeding and other basic animal husbandry care.
• Under veterinarian direction, document examination findings, vaccinations, medications, surgery information, and treatments accurately in Shelter Buddy medical records.
• Facilitate the transfer of animals from intake or medical areas to appropriate housing.
• Communicate effectively, cordially, and promptly within and outside the department.
• Maintain animal handling and restraint equipment.
• Assist with stocking and maintaining adequate inventory.
• Obtain ACC-provided euthanasia certification and perform humane euthanasia when needed.
• Implant microchips as needed.
• Work cooperatively with ACC volunteers, partners, and other departments.
• Complete Fear Free certification within 30 days of hire.
• Perform other duties as assigned by the supervisor.

Benefits

• Generous paid time off, including vacation time, birthdays off, personal days, and sick pay.
• Cigna medical, dental, and vision insurance with a low employee premium.
• 401(k) and pension.
• Life insurance.
• On-the-job training for 2–4 weeks.
• Periodic all-staff training, including safety, DEI, cross-training, and other growth opportunities.
• Potential eligibility for Public Service Loan Forgiveness.

What This Job Offers

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