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Job description
Internal Medicine Veterinary Assistant (VA)
About Us: Why Cerro Alto?
Cerro Alto Veterinary Specialty and Emergency Hospital is a privately owned specialty and emergency practice committed to both healing and education. Our team of board-certified specialists, experienced emergency doctors, registered veterinary technicians, assistants, and client service professionals work collaboratively to provide exceptional medical care while fostering a supportive, respectful, and positive workplace.
As a new, state-of-the-art facility, we are equipped with advanced diagnostic and treatment technologies, including a 128-slice CT scanner, fluoroscopy, digital radiology, ultrasound, arthroscopy, laparoscopy, and endoscopy. Our hospital includes full-time boarded surgery, radiology, and oncology services, part-time cardiology and internal medicine services, and a 24/7 emergency department supported by experienced emergency veterinarians.
At Cerro Alto Veterinary Specialty and Emergency Hospital, we are deeply committed to mentorship, continuing education, and professional growth. We recognize the demands of veterinary medicine and strive to balance clinical excellence with sustainability, teamwork, and long-term career fulfillment.
Position Overview: Internal Medicine Veterinary Assistant
As a member of our internal medicine team, you will provide hands‑on care for complex medical patients while working closely with our board‑certified internists and other specialty teams. You will assist with patient care, diagnostics, treatments, monitoring, and client communication throughout each patient’s stay. This position is ideal for an experienced Veterinary Assistant who enjoys challenging medical cases and wants to continue developing their clinical skills in a specialty setting.
Employment decisions are made without regard to protected characteristics under federal, state, or local law.
Assist with patient intake, collect histories, and present patients to the internist
Coordinate and perform diagnostics, laboratory testing, and imaging
Provide hands‑on nursing care and assist with medical treatments and procedures
Monitor hospitalized and outpatient patients and promptly report changes in condition
Monitor patients following sedation or procedures and assist with recovery
Communicate with clients regarding patient updates, care plans, and discharge instructions
Coordinate with the internist to prepare and fill prescribed medications for patients
Maintain accurate and timely medical records and treatment documentation
Collaborate daily with the ER/ICU and other specialty services to provide coordinated patient care
Mentor and support junior Veterinary Assistants and Hospital Assistants
Float to other departments as needed based on daily caseload and hospital needs
These duties represent the essential functions of the position but are not intended to be an exhaustive list.
Qualifications & Skills
Minimum of 2-3 years of experience as a veterinary assistant (required)
Experience in a specialty and/or emergency veterinary hospital (preferred)
Strong clinical skills including but not limited to: IVC placement, patient monitoring, restraint, and phlebotomy
Ability to multitask, prioritize, and remain calm in a fast‑paced environment
A commitment to growth and professional development
Reliable attendance and punctuality
Scheduling & Availability Requirements
This position is based in a 24/7 emergency and specialty hospital.
For full-time: reliable availability to work three to four 10‑hour shifts or four to five 8‑hour shifts
For part-time: reliable availability to work at least two 10‑hour shifts or two 8‑hour shifts
Requests for schedule modifications will be reviewed on a case‑by‑case basis and may be considered where reasonable and consistent with business operations and applicable law.
What We Offer
Compensation of $21.50-$28.50 per hour based on experience and skill level
Comprehensive benefits package for eligible employees, including health, dental, and vision insurance
401(k) with employer match
Paid sick time and vacation time for eligible employees
A yearly scrub allowance of $200 for eligible employees
An AtDove membership to support clinical growth and development
A collaborative, respectful workplace culture
Exposure to emergency and specialty veterinary medicine in a modern facility
The opportunity to live and work in San Luis Obispo, with access to outdoor recreation, wineries, and a vibrant community
Shift Differentials
We recognize the value of overnight and weekend coverage and offer additional compensation for eligible hours worked:
Overnight Differential : +$3.00/hour for hours worked between 8:00 PM and 6:00 AM
Weekend Differential : +$3.00/hour for hours worked between Friday at 8:00 PM and Monday at 6:00 AM
These differentials are separate and cumulative . Team members working eligible overnight hours during the weekend differential period may earn both differentials, providing the opportunity to earn up to an additional $6.00/hour above their base rate.
The pay range for this role is:
21.50 - 28.50 USD per hour (Cerro Alto Veterinary Specialty & Emergency Hospital)
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Worksite address
san luis obispo, CA, 93403, US
Who can apply
Review the original listing for work authorization, qualifications and employer requirements.