What are the responsibilities and job description for the Veterinary Assistant/ Canine Handler position at North American Veterinary Blood Bank?
Veterinary Assistant / Canine Handler – Wilkinsburg, PA
Pay: $14.00–$18.00 per hour
Schedule: Monday–Friday, day shift. No weekend, overnight, or holiday shifts.
Job Type: Full-time
About the Role
Want to work with animals and save lives outside a typical veterinary practice? North American Veterinary Blood Bank is growing our Pittsburgh team in Wilkinsburg to keep up with the rising demand for canine blood donors.
You'll work hands-on with each volunteer blood donor and keep them comfortable throughout the donation process. Hugs, treats, pillows, whatever they need! You'll also get experience with basic lab work.
Each day starts at our Wilkinsburg office, where the team loads the company vehicle before heading out to off-site donation locations. Because we travel to sites together each morning, on-time, consistent attendance is essential.
What You'll Do
- Handle and gently restrain canine donors before, during, and after donation
- Keep dogs calm and comfortable so every visit is a positive experience
- Load, unload, and set up equipment at off-site donation locations
- Assist with basic lab work and post-donation care
- Support a small, close-knit team on busy donation days
What We're Looking For
- At least 6 months of hands-on experience working with animals
- Confident dog handling and restraint skills
- Comfortable working with large dogs. Our donors are typically large breeds (50–100 lbs)
- Able to stand for long periods
- Able to lift 50 lbs, including lifting dogs onto tables and moving equipment
- Reliable, responsible, adaptable to change, and a good critical thinker
Benefits
- Health, dental, and vision insurance
- 401(k) with company match after 6 months
- Two weeks of paid time off per year (accrued)
- Weekends and major holidays off
Experience
- Animal handling: 6 months (Required)
Work Location: In person – Wilkinsburg, PA
Pay: $14.00 - $18.00 per hour
Expected hours: 40.0 per week
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- 401(k) matching
- Dental insurance
- Health insurance
- Health savings account
- Paid time off
Work Location: In person
Salary : $14 - $18