VETERINARY ASSISTANT

Veterinary Assistant (Full-time or Part-time)

Highland Pet Hospital – Bloomington, IL

Starting rate of $15.50/hour for those with less than 2 years of veterinary experience, $17/hour for those with 2 years of veterinary experience

Position requires the ability to work full days (8am to 5:30pm) during the week. We are unable to hire for half days.

The job at a glance:

At Highland, Veterinary Assistants (VAs) are the front line of patient care and client service. They gather patient histories, handle animals, answer phones, support the medical team, and educate pet owners. From the exam room to the surgery suite, VAs are vital to hospital operations.

This role is fast-paced, active, hands-on, and essential. You will be expected to learn quickly, communicate clearly, and step up when things get busy. Teamwork is everything here.

You’ll report to Lead Vet Assistants, Certified Vet Techs, Managers, and Veterinarians.

What We’re Looking for:

Mindset & Education

• High school diploma (or equivalent)
• Follow directions and take initiative
• Communicate clearly in person and in writing
• Stay cool under pressure
• Embrace feedback and growth
• Be on time. Be dependable. We all feel it when someone isn’t.

Physical Ability

• Lift up to 40 lbs without help
• Be on your feet on hard floors for long stretches
• Type accurately and use basic software
• Work in loud, busy environments (dogs bark - a lot)
• Prioritize safety at all times

Job Responsibilities:

The Basics: 

Reception and Administrative Duties

All VA’s get cross-trained in reception as this is a great way to strengthen client relationships and get a big picture view of all the pieces that make the hospital run. 

• Greet clients and pets with professionalism and warmth
• Answer phones, respond to emails, schedule appointments, and handle basic medical questions
• Keep clients updated on wait times
• Maintain accurate, detailed records

Exam Rooms

This is where every VA starts, regardless of prior experience. You’ll support doctors in both wellness and same-day sick visits.

• Take some vitals and a temp (yes, this is rectally - so grab a buddy to help if the pet is particularly wiggly)
• Collect samples as needed (ear swabs, urine, etc)
• Safely restrain pets using low-stress techniques
• Get a detailed history from the owner and assist with updating the medical record throughout the appointment
• Fill prescriptions accurately and efficiently

Radiology

• Assist with restraint and positioning for x-rays
• Follow all PPE and safety protocols

Housekeeping & Cleanliness

• Everyone cleans—no exceptions
• Laundry, trash, dishes, cages, litterboxes
• Keep exam rooms, treatment areas, and supply stations stocked and tidy
• Cleaning ear cones and cleaning the cleaners (can we say clean one more time?)

Safety

• Follow all OSHA, hospital, and biohazard protocols
• No food or drinks in treatment or surgery areas (way too many things can fly around a vet clinic; you do not want this seasoning your lunch)

Schedule

• Must be available 3-5 days/week from 8:00am to 5:30pm (full days only, no half days offered)
• Once further in training, every VA will have at least one early shift (7:00am start time) or late shift (6:00pm end time)
• On-call availability is a plus

Areas for Growth:

We don’t hand out stethoscopes on day one. But if you show up, show heart, and put in the work, you’ll move forward.

Pre-CVT Program: In tech school? We’ll help you exceed your requirements and build real-world clinical skills.

VA Level Program: Not pursuing certification but want to grow? This track expands your responsibilities and unlocks advancement.

• Advanced Nursing Assistant - Hospitalized Patient Care

• Walk, feed, medicate, and monitor patients
• Document vitals and behavioral changes
• Support treatment plans and provide restraint for procedures

• Surgery Assistant - Surgical Support 

• Prep sterile packs and instruments
• Manage autoclave use and equipment care
• Assist with anesthesia monitoring and recovery
• Be a steady hand for the surgical team

• Outpatient Operations Assistant

• This position is for experienced VAs who:
• Manage hospital workflow like an air traffic controller
• Perform tech-level tasks like vaccine boosters or blood draws
• Mentor and train incoming VAs