About Us
Pamlico Animal Hospital is a busy, fast-paced small animal practice in Washington, NC. We are currently looking for a Veterinary Assistant to join our team. Whether you're already working in veterinary medicine or looking to grow your experience in the field, we're seeking someone who is dependable, hardworking, eager to learn, and enjoys working with both animals and people.
Important - Please Read Before Applying
Please carefully read the entire job posting, including the schedule expectations and required qualifications, before submitting an application.
Due to the nature of this position and the needs of our hospital, only applicants who meet the listed requirements and availability expectations will be considered for employment.
Schedule Expectations
- Full-time position
- Weekend and holiday availability required for all team members
- Weekday schedules include a variety of shifts, with some starting as early as 7:00 AM and others ending as late as 9:00 PM
- Consistent attendance is essential for this role
- This is not a seasonal or temporary position. We are looking for someone interested in growing with our team long-term.
What to Expect
Working in veterinary medicine is incredibly rewarding, but it is also physically and emotionally demanding.
This is not a "play with puppies and kittens all day" position. While you'll certainly get plenty of animal interaction, you'll also be helping sick pets, cleaning messes, assisting with medical procedures, supporting worried pet owners, and helping keep the hospital running smoothly.
Team members should expect:
- Animal restraint and handling throughout the day
- Exposure to animal bodily fluids, feces, and loud noises
- Occasional bites, scratches, and potential exposure to contagious diseases
- Fast-paced days with constantly changing priorities
- Meaningful work that makes a real difference in the lives of pets and their families
Primary Responsibilities
Patient Care
- Walk, feed, change litter, and monitor hospitalized patients
- Observe and report changes in patient condition or behavior
- Help ensure patients remain comfortable and clean during their stay.
Animal Restraint & Handling
- Safely restrain patients during exams and procedures
- Work with pets of all sizes, personalities, and medical conditions
- Assist with anxious, fearful, or reactive animals
Cleaning & Hospital Maintenance
- Clean and disinfect cages, runs, treatment areas, equipment, and common areas
- Assist with laundry and dishes
- Help maintain a clean and safe environment for patients, clients, and staff
Exam Room & Client Communication
- Assist veterinarians during appointments
- Communicate with clients regarding treatments, medications, and patient care
- Provide client education and discharge instructions
Laboratory & Medical
- Collect and prepare blood, urine, fecal, and cytology samples
- Operate in-house IDEXX laboratory equipment
- Assist with radiographs, laser therapy, and other treatments
Pharmacy
- Fill prescriptions accurately
- Administer medications as directed
- Educate clients on medication administration when appropriate
Computer
- Enter treatments and notes into patient records
- Generate invoices
- Maintain accurate medical records
Required Qualifications
To be considered for this position, applicants must have:
- Own reliable transportation
- The ability to lift up to 50lbs
- The ability to stand, walk, bend, and move throughout the day
- Flexible availability, including weekends and holidays
- A positive attitude and strong work ethic
- Excellent attendance and punctuality
- Strong communication and customer service skills
- Basic computer skills
- Compassion for both animals and people
- The ability to prioritize and stay organized throughout a busy workday
- A willingness to learn, accept feedback, and continue developing new skills
- The ability to work independently while also being a supportive team member
What We Offer
- Employee discounts on veterinary care for your personal pet(s)
- On-the-job training and mentorship
- Opportunities for growth and advancement
- Holiday pay
Job Types: Full-time, Part-time
Pay: From $12.00 per hour
Benefits:
- Dental insurance
- Employee discount
- Health insurance
- Life insurance
- Paid time off
- Retirement plan
- Uniform allowance
- Vision insurance
Application Question(s):
- This position requires open weekday and rotating weekend availability. Please list any schedule restrictions you currently have, including school, additional jobs, or recurring commitments. If no restrictions, please say "none."
- In complete sentences, describe why you are interested in this position and how your skills or experience would support a busy veterinary hospital.
- What do you believe will be the most challenging part of this role?
- Have you interviewed (phone or in-person) with us before? If so, for which position and what year?
Ability to Commute:
- Washington, NC 27889 (Required)
Work Location: In person
