Veterinary Assistant Laboratory

VCA Animal Hospitals•Ithaca, NY

About The Position

VCA Colonial Animal Hospital is seeking an experienced, compassionate, and dedicated Veterinary Assistant to work in its laboratory. This full-time role supports patient care by collecting, processing, and analyzing samples; maintaining laboratory equipment; and ensuring accurate, timely results that help doctors make treatment decisions. The position also includes inventory and work-area upkeep, troubleshooting equipment, and assisting with treatments under the guidance of a veterinarian or technician. A weekend rotation is required. Compensation is $19.00–$21.00 per hour, depending on experience and skill set. The hospital seeks someone positive, motivated, organized, detail-oriented, and able to multitask. Team members meet frequently, and the assistant is encouraged to contribute ideas and adapt to varied duties while supporting the team. VCA offers career-development and education resources, paid time off and family support, health and wellness resources, pet-related discounts, and financial and insurance benefits. VCA describes its hospitals as locally distinct teams supported by the resources, mentorship, and career opportunities of a national organization.

Requirements

Experience as a Veterinary Assistant.
Strong organization and attention to detail.
Ability to multitask.
Good time-management skills.
Ability to communicate effectively with team members.
Availability for a weekend rotation.

Nice To Haves

Understanding of Idexx laboratory equipment; preferred but not required.

Responsibilities

Operate laboratory analyzers.
Prepare samples for shipment.
Track laboratory results.
Run routine quality control.
Maintain laboratory equipment and troubleshoot equipment issues.
Prepare orders for laboratory supplies.
Restock and clean the work area.
Serve as OSHA Coordinator.
Help with treatments under the guidance of a veterinarian or technician.
Unpack and shelve inventory.
Collect, process, and run samples to support patient diagnosis and treatment.

Benefits

Career growth and education resources, including VCA-sponsored Veterinary Technician National Exam support and test preparation, paid yearly NAVTA membership and state credential renewal, scholarships and discounts for the Penn Foster Veterinary Technician Program, continuing education and training resources, and subscriptions to Vetfolio and Plumb's online formulary.
Nationwide hospital transfer opportunities.
Paid vacation and paid sick days.
Paid parental leave and fertility benefits.
Paid bereavement days.
Free mental health support through the Cigna Life Assistance Program and Lyra.
Free Headspace subscription.
Hospital discounts for personal pets, including free vaccines.
Discounted Hills or Royal Canin pet food delivered to your home.
Three pairs of scrubs per year.
401(k) retirement savings with employer contribution.
Medical, dental, and vision insurance with HSA/FSA options and multiple health plan options.
100% employer-paid short-term and long-term disability insurance.
Employer-paid basic life insurance.