Veterinary Assistant Surgery

VCA Animal Hospitals•Clackamas, OR

1d•Onsite

About The Position

VCA Northwest Veterinary Specialists is hiring a Veterinary Assistant for its Specialty Surgery Team in Clackamas, Oregon. The role supports surgeons, registered veterinary technicians, and other support staff in providing personalized patient care. The surgery service is supported by emergency and critical care, internal medicine, radiology, neurology, and rehabilitation departments. The position is full-time, Wednesday through Saturday, from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m., with compensation of $21–$24 per hour. The assistant helps with exams and procedures, patient handling, surgery preparation, medical records, client education, and maintaining a clean, stocked, and organized hospital.

Requirements

Previous experience in a veterinary setting.
A passion for animals and a desire to learn and grow in the veterinary field.
Excellent communication and teamwork skills.
Comfort handling dogs and cats of all sizes and temperaments.
High school diploma or equivalent.

Responsibilities

Assist surgeons and technicians with exams and procedures.
Assist with exams and perform temperature, pulse, and respiration checks (TPRs).
Restrain animals safely and compassionately.
Prepare and clean exam rooms.
Maintain accurate medical records and support charting.
Provide client education and excellent service during visits.
Support surgery preparation.
Help maintain a clean, stocked, and organized hospital environment.

Benefits

Mental health support through the Lyra platform, including up to 12 therapy sessions per year, guided self-care, and meditation resources.
Medical, dental, and vision insurance with HSA/FSA options.
Fertility benefits.
Paid vacation, sick, parental, and bereavement leave.
Short- and long-term disability coverage described as 100% employer-paid.
Access to the Better Together Fund for crisis support in qualifying situations.
Rabies prophylaxis vaccine and titer testing.
Continuing education allowance for veterinarians and credentialed veterinary technicians, plus access to RACE-approved courses through WOOF University.
Opportunities to work with current technology and programs that encourage innovation and creativity, such as VCA Next.
Penn Foster and VTNE test-prep sponsorships and VTNE prep courses.
Discounts on Low-Stress Handling, Fear Free, and AAFP Cat-Friendly certifications, plus VETGirl and VIN subscriptions.
Free NAVTA membership and a free subscription to Plumb’s.
Leadership development and mentorship programs.
401(k) retirement savings plan with increasing employer contribution.
100% employer-paid professional liability coverage and life insurance equal to one year’s salary.
Generous pet care discounts and VIP programs.
Student loan advisory services, tools, and resources.
Access to legal resources for common legal services.
Nationwide hospital transfer opportunities.