Veterinary Assistant - Primary Care

Elm City Vet – Primary Care in New Haven, CT is hiring a Veterinary Assistant.

Veterinary Assistants support veterinarians, technicians, clients, and patients by ensuring the hospital operates efficiently and compassionately each day.

Key responsibilities include assisting with patient restraint, obtaining and recording TPRs, assisting technicians during procedures, setting up instruments, taking radiographs under supervision, refilling medications, feeding and walking hospitalized animals, maintaining cleanliness, laundry duties, and preparing exam rooms.

Other duties involve answering phone calls, routing communications, managing VA communications/tasks, and supporting smooth appointment flow.

• Environment of
  
  Collaboration:
  
  Our hospital locations work closely together to provide the best possible care for the pets we see.
• Commitment to Continuing
  
  Education:
  
  Numerous in‑house CE opportunities and mentoring support employee development.
• Career Advancement:
  Top talent and strong work ethic are recognized and may lead to promotions from within.

We strongly believe that veterinary medicine is a team sport, and we value individuals who navigate both client and interpersonal communication with skill and ease.

• Assist with patient restraint during examinations, treatments, and procedures.
• Obtain and record TPRs (Temperature, Pulse, Respiration).
• Assist technicians with appointments and during procedures by setting up, breaking down, and recording TPRs in SRX as needed.
• Set up instruments and supplies for appointments based on doctor preference.
• Prepare patients and treatment areas for procedures.
• Take radiographs (X-rays) under supervision and hospital protocols;
  Veterinary Assistants function as the second person in X-ray.
• Physically refill medications as directed by the medical team.
• Feed and walk hospitalized animals.
• Clean cages and maintain kennel areas.
• Perform laundry duties.
• Maintain overall hospital cleanliness and sanitation.
• Clean and prepare exam rooms between appointments.
• Restock hospital and treatment supplies as needed.

• Answer incoming phone calls and appropriately route communications.
• Manage and complete VA communications/tasks in a timely manner.
• Support smooth appointment flow and assist team members as needed.

Based on experience, starting at $19.00–$21.00 an hour.

This is a full-time position: 4 days a week, 10‑hour shifts, with Saturday rotation. Closed on holidays.

• Supportive culture with social events & team building.
• Competitive paid time off & holidays.
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• Mental Health Focused Services.
• Safe Harbor 401(k) with up to a 4% match and immediate vesting.

• Prior experience working in a veterinary setting.
• Experience in handling animals and performing basic animal care tasks.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills to interact with clients and team members.
• Ability to multi‑task and remain organized in a fast‑paced environment.
• Compassion and patience when handling animals.
• Basic knowledge of animal behavior and medical terminology.
• Ability to work well under pressure and in stressful situations.
• Ability to work collaboratively with veterinarians, technicians, and other staff members.
• Willingness to take direction and adapt to new tasks and procedures.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to follow instructions.
• Ability to lift and restrain animals safely.
• Ability to stand for extended periods of time.
• Ability to perform repetitive cleaning and stocking tasks.
• Punctuality and reliability, with a commitment to maintaining a high standard of care.
• Positive attitude, professionalism, and a compassionate approach to client care.
• Willingness to continue learning and stay up‑to‑date on veterinary practices.