Community Vet Clinic Assistant: Surgery & Care

Description

The Humane Society for Southwest Washington is currently seeking a Community Medicine Veterinary Assistant to join our team. This is a full-time, FLSA nonexempt opportunity.

Since 1897, HSSW has been the leader in animal welfare across Southwest Washington. With an annual operating budget of $15 million, we are the largest and most innovative animal welfare organization in the region. Our shelter campuses in Vancouver and Longview, WA serve more than 10,000 animals each year, providing high-quality care, medical services, and the compassion they deserve.

Our community-based approach helps keep pets and people together. Through the Nierenberg Community Veterinary Clinic, the Sandra Richardson Miller Mobile Veterinary Clinic, the Swigert Family Behavior & Training Center, and programs like free pet food and other essential resources, we serve more than 18,000 owned animals annually expanding access to affordable veterinary care, spay/neuter, training, and support.

We also own and operate ReTails Thrift Store, a top shopping destination named Best Thrift Store in Clark County for eight consecutive years, providing vital funding for our mission.

At HSSW, you’ll find an innovative, high-energy culture where your passion for animals and people can make a real difference. We’re looking for team members who want to be part of something bigger: supporting pets, strengthening families, and shaping the future of animal welfare in Southwest Washington. HSSW has been honored as Best Non-Profit for two years running—a recognition of our impact and leadership in the community.

Community Medicine Veterinary Assistant

The Community Medicine Veterinary Assistant provides advanced technical and operational support within the Humane Society for Southwest Washington Community Veterinary Clinic. This role supports veterinarians and licensed veterinary technicians in a high-volume, fast-paced environment focused on spay/neuter surgery, preventative care, and increasing access to veterinary services for underserved communities. This position requires a skilled veterinary assistant who is comfortable working in a surgical setting, assisting with anesthesia and patient care, and supporting efficient clinic operations while maintaining a high standard of compassion and professionalism with clients and animals.

This position reports to the Director of Community Medicine Operations and works closely with veterinarians, licensed veterinary technicians, veterinary assistants, and volunteers.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Patient Care and Surgery Support

Assist with patient intake, handling, and preparation for surgery and medical appointments.

Support veterinarians and licensed veterinary technicians with examinations, treatments, and procedures.

Prepare animals for surgery including patient identification, weighing, pre-operative preparation, and surgical prep.

Assist with anesthesia induction, monitoring, and recovery under the direction of veterinarians and licensed veterinary technicians.

Monitor patient safety and report changes in condition promptly.

Maintain accurate medical records within the clinic database.

Assist with post-operative monitoring and discharge preparation.

Clinic Operations

Support daily clinic flow to maintain efficient patient throughput.

Prepare and maintain surgical packs, instruments, and treatment areas.

Clean and disinfect clinical areas, equipment, and kennels according to disease control protocols.

Assist with inventory management and stocking of clinic supplies.

Support patient discharge and provide clear instructions to clients.

Assist with community cat program patients and high-volume spay/neuter services.

Client Communication

Provide professional and compassionate communication…