Experienced Veterinary Assistant

Seeking a Skilled and Passionate Vet Assistant!

Acacia Pet Clinic is looking for an experienced and dedicated Veterinary Assistant to join our team. We are a fast-paced practice, so we need someone who is knowledgeable, energetic, and able to multitask, with a genuine passion for supporting pets, clients, and colleagues. Client care and satisfaction are at the heart of what we do.

ABOUT THE ROLE:

We are a 2-doctor general practice operating in a collaborative and supportive environment. Communication, teamwork, professionalism, and positivity are core to our culture . The current staff is very cohesive and knows how to work independently as well as with each other. We’re looking for someone who will compliment and enhance our team dynamic.

You must be confident performing assistant-level clinical duties and comfortable supporting both medical and front-desk functions when needed.

WHAT YOU'LL BE DOING:

Clinical & Surgical Support

• Patient restraint (safe, compassionate handling)
• Blood draws and IV catheter placement
• Surgical prep (clipping, cleaning, room setup)
• Assist during surgical procedures
• Monitor surgical recovery patients
• Dental cleanings, polishing, and full-mouth X-rays
• Administer medications and vaccines as prescribed
• Assist with euthanasia procedures compassionately and professionally

Diagnostics & Lab

• Collect and prepare lab samples (blood, urine, feces)
• Take and process radiographs
• Perform routine in-house diagnostics

Client Communication & Education

• Provide post-operative and discharge instructions
• Educate clients on vaccine protocols (core vs. elective)
• Answer phones and schedule appointments
• Discuss pet health updates with empathy and clarity
• Document medical conversations accurately
• Handle client concerns professionally and escalate appropriately when needed

Administrative & Clinic Operations

• Maintain accurate patient records (EMR)
• Assist with front desk duties when needed
• Maintain clean, stocked, and sanitized exam/treatment rooms
• Support inventory tracking and supply management
• Uphold safety and sanitation standards at all times

WHAT WE'RE LOOKING FOR:

• Minimum 2 years of experience as a Veterinary Assistant (required)
• Minimum 2 years working in a veterinary or medical setting (required)
• Comfortable in a fast-paced clinical environment
• Strong restraint, blood draw, and surgery assist skills
• Excellent communication and customer service skills
• Ability to stay calm during medical emergencies
• Proficiency with veterinary software/EMRs

(Experience with Shepard Software is a plus; we also utilize modern EMR systems.)

• Strong multitasking and time management abilities
• Professional, positive, team-focused attitude

(We value collaboration — no gossip, strong teamwork culture.)

EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS:

Must possess one of the following:

• High School Diploma or GED
• Associate degree or some college coursework
• Post-secondary certificate (veterinary, medical, technical, or related field)

WHY ACACIA PET CLINIC?

Under ownership for more than three years, we continue building strong, lasting client relationships and fostering a positive workplace culture.

We offer:

• 401(k)
• Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance
• Paid Time Off
• Paid Sick Time
• Paid Holidays
• Discounted Pet Care
• Uniform Stipend
• Some benefits for part-time employees (pro-rated)

CLINIC HOURS:

• Monday–Friday
• 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
• (No remote work)

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs
• Prolonged standing, bending, reaching
• Physical stamina to assist with moving and restraining animals

Ready to Take the Next Step?

If you’re passionate about veterinary medicine, enjoy working in a collaborative team environment, and want to grow your career in a supportive San Jose practice, we’d love to meet you.

Apply today and become part of the Acacia Pet Clinic family!

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $22.00 - $28.00 per hour

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• Dental insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Employee discount
• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Professional development assistance
• Retirement plan
• Uniform allowance
• Vision insurance

Application Question(s):

• Are you able to commute to Acacia Pet Clinic within 45 minutes each way?
• How many years of veterinary assistant/tech experience do you have?
• Please list vet tech skills in which you consider yourself proficient.
• What veterinary technician skills are you interested in learning or further refining?

Work Location: In person