Veterinary Surgery Assistant, GCVS
About The Position
Gulf Coast Veterinary Specialists (GCVS) is seeking a highly organized, compassionate, and energetic Veterinary Surgery Assistant to join their team. This role is crucial in providing specialized care for companion animals in a state-of-the-art facility. The Surgery Assistant will work under the direct guidance of supervisors, surgeons, and managers, assisting practitioners to improve patient care quality and enhance surgeon efficiency by handling technical and administrative tasks. The position is demanding and technical, requiring specialized knowledge of advanced surgical procedures, preparation, instrumentation, and departmental support beyond general practice assistant duties.
Requirements
- High school diploma or equivalent required.
- Minimum of 2-year experience in general or specialty veterinary service.
- Strong technical skills are essential, including: Venipuncture and IV catheter placement, Intubation/Extubation experience, Surgical preparation and assistance, Proficiency in diagnostic imaging and laboratory procedures, Experience handling and processing surgical instruments, including specialized equipment.
- Adapts positively to the ever-changing healthcare environment by supporting technology and process changes.
- Must possess excellent listening and interpersonal skills and problem-solving methods.
- Fluent English skills (speaking & reading) are required for the role.
Nice To Haves
- Previous experience in a surgical or specialty veterinary setting is preferred.
- Fluency in multiple languages a plus!
Responsibilities
- Maintain operating room cleanliness, equipment, anesthesia machines, and monitors; assist with post-procedure turnover and sterilization workflows
- Assist with patient care including restraint, grooming, discharge preparation, ICU/kennel support, and client service assistance
- Perform preliminary diagnostics and lab work (IV catheters, vitals, ECGs, blood/urine collection, in-house lab testing)
- Prepare, calculate, document, and administer medications, CRIs, blood transfusions, and controlled substances per doctor/LVT direction
- Assist with anesthetic induction, monitoring, pain management, and recovery under supervision
- Provide surgical support including site prep, sterile technique, scrubbing, circulating, instrumentation handling, and minor procedures
- Accurately document anesthesia, surgical procedures, treatments, diagnostics, and invoicing codes
- Handle reference lab submissions (histopathology, cultures, uroliths) following proper protocols
- Clean, wrap, sterilize, and organize surgical instruments and suites
- Operate diagnostic imaging equipment (radiography, CT, MRI) and follow all safety standards
- Perform advanced technical procedures as trained (arterial lines, nerve blocks, epidurals)
Benefits
- 401(k) with matching
- Health, Dental, and Vision insurance
- Health Savings Account (HSA) / Flexible Spending Account (FSA)
- Life and Disability insurance
- Paid Time Off (PTO) and Holidays
- Employee Assistance Program and Discounts (including Pet Discount)
- Professional development and tuition assistance
- Uniform stipend
- Retirement plan
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Mid Level
Education Level
High school or GED
