Veterinary Assistant - Equine Practice

About Sawtooth Equine Service

Sawtooth Equine Service is a well-established equine-only veterinary practice serving the Wood River Valley and surrounding areas of central Idaho. We are committed to high-quality medicine, excellent client care, and a professional, team-focused work environment. Our staff plays a vital role in supporting veterinarians and ensuring safe, efficient care for every horse we treat. We have a mobile veterinary team along with a primary care hospital for treatments, elective surgeries, and emergency assessment & stabilization.

Position Summary

We are seeking a dependable, motivated Veterinary Assistant to join our equine veterinary team. This is a hands-on position for someone comfortable working with horses, following medical protocols, and contributing to a fast-paced but supportive clinical environment.

The ideal candidate is safety-minded, detail-oriented, calm under pressure, and takes pride in doing their work well.

Key Responsibilities

· Assist veterinarians during equine examinations, treatments, and procedures

· Safely handle and restrain horses

· Prepare medications, instruments, and treatment areas

· Maintain cleanliness and organization of clinic spaces, vehicles, and equipment

· Monitor horses during and after procedures and promptly report concerns

· Communicate professionally with clients and team members

· Assist with medical records and basic administrative support as needed

Required Qualifications

· Comfort and confidence working with horses required

· Prior veterinary assistant or equine experience preferred but not required

· Ability to lift, stand, bend, and work outdoors in varying weather conditions

· Strong attention to detail and ability to follow established protocols

· Reliable, punctual, and team-oriented

· Willingness to learn and take direction

Schedule & Availability

· 40-hour work week

· Day shift, Monday–Friday

· Occasional nights and weekends required for emergency cases

· Emergency shifts compensated with a bonus pay structure

Compensation & Benefits

· $16–$20 per hour, based on experience

· Full benefits package, including:

• Health and dental insurance
• Accrued paid time off (PTO)
• Continuing education (CE) programs and professional memberships
• Possible income-based housing (availability dependent)

· Opportunity to develop hands-on equine veterinary skills in a respected practice

· Supportive, experienced veterinary team

How to Apply

Please submit your resume and a brief cover letter describing your experience with horses and your interest in joining Sawtooth Equine Service.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $16.00 - $20.00 per hour

Expected hours: 40 per week

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Continuing education credits
• Dental insurance
• Employee discount
• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Professional development assistance
• Vision insurance

Application Question(s):

• Which statement best describes your experience working with horses?

1. I have professional or hands-on experience handling horses (barn work, training, veterinary or similar)

2. I have recreational or personal experience with horses (owning, riding, assisting at barns).

3. I have limited exposure but am comfortable learning to work safely around horses.

4. I do not have experience working with horses.

Work Location: In person

Salary : $16 - $20