Veterinary Assistant

Full-Time Veterinary Assistant
Animal Samaritans – Indio Clinic
Hourly Range: $22–$26 per hour, depending on experience

Are you an experienced Veterinary Assistant who is passionate about animal care and looking to grow in a fast-paced, mission-driven veterinary environment? Animal Samaritans is seeking a compassionate, dependable, and team-oriented Veterinary Assistant to join our Indio clinic full-time.

This role will focus primarily on General Practice and Urgent Care veterinary medicine, with some exposure to spay and neuter surgery. We are looking for experienced Veterinary Assistants who are confident working with pets and clients, comfortable supporting veterinarians in a busy clinical setting, and committed to providing excellent patient care.

At Animal Samaritans, we are dedicated to improving the lives of animals and the people who love them through high-quality veterinary care, education, and community support. If you thrive in a hands-on clinical environment and enjoy working as part of a collaborative veterinary team, we would love to hear from you.

Position Summary

Under the direction of the Practice Manager and Doctors of Veterinary Medicine, the Veterinary Assistant supports medical operations in General Practice and Urgent Care while delivering compassionate patient care and excellent client service. This role works closely with veterinarians, technicians, assistants, and support staff to ensure safe, efficient, and professional care for every patient.

The Veterinary Assistant may also assist with some spay and neuter surgery support, including patient preparation, monitoring, recovery, and maintaining clean and organized surgical areas.

Responsibilities

• Assist veterinarians during exams, treatments, urgent care visits, and minor procedures
• Support patient intake, history gathering, and preparation for veterinary exams
• Obtain and record patient vital signs and other medical information accurately
• Assist with patient restraint using safe, compassionate handling techniques
• Prepare exam rooms, treatment areas, and supplies for daily appointments and urgent care cases
• Administer and prepare vaccines according to established protocols
• Prepare patient medications and maintain accurate pharmacy logs as directed
• Assist with diagnostic procedures, sample collection, and laboratory preparation as needed
• Monitor patients before, during, and after procedures, including anesthesia recovery when applicable
• Assist with surgical preparation and post-operative care for spay and neuter patients as needed
• Maintain and sterilize surgical instruments and equipment
• Perform basic patient care services such as ear cleanings and nail trims
• Communicate professionally and compassionately with clients and team members
• Maintain accurate medical records and assist with documentation in veterinary software systems
• Keep treatment, exam, and surgical areas clean, stocked, and organized
• Support front desk, scheduling, and client service operations as needed
• Provide compassionate, professional service to clients and pets at all times

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required
• Previous veterinary assistant experience strongly preferred
• Experience in General Practice, Urgent Care, emergency, or high-volume veterinary medicine preferred
• Knowledge of veterinary software and computer systems preferred
• Strong communication and customer service skills
• Ability to multitask and remain organized in a fast-paced clinical environment
• Team-oriented attitude with a willingness to learn and grow
• Dependable attendance and punctuality required
• Ability to lift up to 40 pounds
• Must be comfortable working around animals in a clinical setting
• Must be comfortable assisting with urgent cases, medical treatments, and some surgical support

What We’re Looking For

• Experienced Veterinary Assistants who are confident in a clinical setting
• Compassion for animals and the people who care for them
• Strong attention to detail and accuracy in patient care
• A calm, professional approach under pressure
• Friendly, outgoing, and client-focused communication style
• Positive attitude and commitment to teamwork
• Willingness to support both General Practice and Urgent Care workflows
• Commitment to high-quality, compassionate veterinary care

Compensation

This position offers an hourly wage range of $22–$26 per hour, depending on experience, skill level, and qualifications.

Benefits

Animal Samaritans offers a comprehensive benefits package including:

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance options
• 401(k) retirement plan with company match
• Paid holidays, PTO, and sick time
• Employee discounts on veterinary services
• Employee recognition programs

Schedule

• Full-time position
• Must be available for flexible scheduling
• Occasional extended hours may be required based on clinic needs and urgent care caseload

Apply Today

Join a mission-driven organization dedicated to serving pets, clients, and the community. We are looking for experienced Veterinary Assistants who are compassionate, motivated, and ready to make a difference every day at our Indio clinic.

Animal Samaritans is an Equal Opportunity Employer.