Veterinary Assistant, Surgery

Ethos Veterinary Health•Asheville, NC

5d•$20 - $26•Onsite

About The Position

South Asheville Veterinary Emergency & Specialty (SAVES) in Asheville, NC is seeking a full-time Veterinary Surgical Assistant to join our Surgery team. This opportunity is ideal for an experienced Veterinary Assistant who enjoys advanced medicine, working alongside skilled surgeons, and being closely involved in patient care from admission through discharge. At SAVES, you’ll have the opportunity to develop your surgical skills while working as part of a collaborative specialty team focused on high-quality patient care and compassionate service.

Requirements

Minimum of 2 years of experience as a Veterinary Assistant, preferably in emergency or specialty medicine
Current RVT students are encouraged to apply
Experience with surgical patient preparation and sterile technique
Strong animal handling and restraint skills
Proficiency in venipuncture and peripheral catheter placement
Knowledge of medication administration through multiple routes
Ability to accurately monitor and document patient vital signs
Familiarity with in-house diagnostics including CBC/Chem, electrolytes, urinalysis, and iStat
Strong medical record-keeping and organizational skills
Strong communication and client service skills
Ability to work effectively with surgeons, veterinarians, Veterinary Technicians, and other team members
Ability to lift at least 35 pounds and stand for extended periods
Fluent English speaking and reading skills required.

Nice To Haves

Experience with CT imaging and contrast studies preferred

Responsibilities

Support surgeons by anticipating procedural needs and assisting with advanced surgical and diagnostic procedures
Prepare patients and surgical areas while maintaining appropriate sterile technique
Perform sterile clipping and patient preparation for surgery
Maintain sterile surgical fields throughout procedures
Identify and prepare surgical instruments and equipment
Drape patients and set up instrument tables
Assist with CT imaging and contrast studies
Perform laboratory testing, sample collection, and processing
Monitor and accurately record patient vital signs, including TPR, SpO₂, CO₂, and blood pressure
Assist with venipuncture and peripheral catheter placement
Administer medications through multiple routes as directed by the medical team
Maintain accurate medical records and manage laboratory results
Assist with short-term case management and continuity of patient care
Communicate with clients by preparing estimates, providing patient updates, and facilitating discharges
Collaborate closely with surgeons, veterinarians, Veterinary Technicians, and other members of the specialty team
Maintain a clean, organized, and safe clinical environment