Veterinary Assistant, Emergency & ICU Daytime

Veterinary Assistant, Emergency & ICU Daytime

$20 - $24/hr. | +$2.50/hr. weekend differentials | Animal Emergency & Referral Associates | West Caldwell, NJ

At Animal Emergency & Referral Associates (AERA), we are proud to be a leader in emergency and specialty veterinary medicine, providing exceptional care to pets and peace of mind to their families. Our team of highly skilled veterinarians, technicians, and support professionals work collaboratively to deliver advanced medical care in a compassionate, patient-centered environment. With a commitment to innovation, clinical excellence, and continuous growth,
AERA offers an exciting opportunity for veterinary professionals who are passionate about making a difference every day.

• $20 - $24 hourly
• We offer the highest industry-standard differentials for weekend and overnight shifts!
  • $5/hr. overnight differentials (11:00pm – 7:00am)
  • $2.50/hr. weekends
  • These differentials are stackable!

• 401(k) with matching
• Health, Dental, and Vision insurance
• Health Savings Account (HSA) / Flexible Spending Account (FSA)
• Life and Disability insurance
• Paid Time Off (PTO) and Holidays
• Employee Assistance Program and Discounts (including Pet Discount)
• Professional development
• Uniform stipend
• Student Debt Assistance
• 6 Paid Holidays
• Recover Training and Certification for qualified staff
• Fear Free Training and Certification for qualified staff
• CE Reimbursement for qualified staff
• Access to Vet Bloom for RACE-approved continuing education and training

• Full-Time
  • Sunday, Wednesday, Friday
  • 8:00am
    -8:00pm

The purpose of this position is to provide support to Doctors and Veterinary Nursesso they may continue to provide excellent patient care. The Veterinary Assistant must pay attention to detail and maintain very high standards of cleanliness and care. The Veterinary Assistant must be able to communicate well with coworkers to ensure overall accuracy and satisfaction.

• Support veterinarians and technicians during exams, treatments, and procedures
• Prepare ER/triage areas and assist with procedure setup (e.g., laceration repair, urinary obstruction cases)
• Set up, break down, clean, and disinfect surgery and treatment areas
• Prepare surgical packs and sterilize instruments
• Safely restrain patients for exams, diagnostics, and treatments
• Obtain accurate patient weights and vital signs
• Perform basic phlebotomy on stable patients as directed
• Provide routine patient care including walking dogs, feeding patients, changing bedding, and cleaning cages
• Prepare patients for inpatient procedures
• Maintain clean, dry, and comfortable patient housing in ICU, ER, Specialty, and wards
• Restock and organize ICU, treatment, surgery, radiology, ultrasound, exam rooms, laboratory, and pharmacy areas
• Clean and maintain hospital equipment and work spaces
• Complete laundry, mopping, sweeping, and general sanitation duties
• Enter accurate information into patient medical records and treatment sheets
• Provide basic client instructions as directed (home care, medications, post-operative care)
• Cross-train and assist other hospital departments as needed
• Maintain at least one year of service in the role to be eligible for advancement

• High school diploma or GED required
• Minimum of 1 year of relevant experience as a veterinary technician or assistant
• Knowledge of safety protocols and proper sanitation/sterilization practices
• Understanding of commonly used veterinary medical terminology and equipment
• Ability to calculate accurate medication dosages and administer injections
• Familiarity with CPR and rescue breathing preferred
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• English fluency (reading and speaking) required, additional languages a plus
• Ability to follow directions from multiple team members and accurately execute instructions
• Demonstrates initiative and anticipates the needs of veterinarians and nursing staff
• Ability to remain calm, think critically, and respond appropriately in emergency situations
• Professional demeanor, good hygiene, and strong client service skills with tact and empathy
• Team-oriented mindset with the ability to work independently or under supervision

• Work alongside a compassionate and talented team dedicated to excellence in veterinary care.
• Make a meaningful impact by being an advocate for pets and their families.
• Enjoy a dynamic, fast-paced environment that keeps you engaged and challenged.
• Be part of a workplace that values your contributions and supports your…