Veterinary Assistant, Surgery

Hourly pay range: $22–$28 depending on experience

Opportunity in Tacoma / South Puget Sound, WA

Schedule: Must be available for either 3 twelve-hour shifts or 4 ten-hour shifts. On-call rotation required once fully trained. Flexibility is required, as surgery times may extend beyond scheduled hours.

The Veterinary Assistant plays a critical role within the Surgery department at Summit Veterinary Referral Center. This position supports the veterinary team by assisting with surgical procedures and ensuring excellent perioperative care for patients, from preparing patients for surgery to assisting with recovery and ensuring a smooth workflow in the operating room. The ideal candidate will be adaptable, demonstrate excellent communication skills, and possess a passion for animal care.

• Assist with the preparation of patients in the surgery department, including obtaining vitals, patient restraint, blood collection, and IV catheter placement
• Set up the OR for surgical procedures, including appropriate shaving and aseptic prep of the surgery site
• Safely move sedated or anesthetized patients to/from the OR, and maintain sterile fields as needed
• Assist with recovery and OR daily/weekly/monthly maintenance
• Perform in-house lab work as required
• Assist with advanced imaging (X-ray, Ultrasound, CT), including radiograph positioning for orthopedic procedures, chest radiographs, chest tube placements, and urethral catheterization
• Prepare prescriptions and communicate discharge orders to clients clearly and compassionately
• Work closely with veterinarians, technicians, and support teams
• Contribute to a positive, team-focused hospital culture

• Knowledge of veterinary medical terminology, anatomy, and pharmacology preferred
• Prior veterinary experience preferred, especially in a specialty hospital, but willing to train the right candidate
• Current WA state medical clerk license preferred; must be willing to obtain within 3 months of hire
• Ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced, often chaotic, and stressful environment
• A collaborative mindset and commitment to exceptional patient care; team player with strong attention to detail, reliability, dependability, and trustworthiness

At Ethos, this isn't just a job, it's an opportunity to practice medicine at the highest level and help shape the future of veterinary care.

Candidates can confidentially submit their CV to Talent Acquisition Partner Kira Wolff at kira.wolff@ethosvet.com

Ethos is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Ethos does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, physical or mental disability, national origin, veteran status or any other basis covered by appropriate law. All employment is decided based on qualifications, competence, merit, and business need.