Veterinary Assistant na Humane Society of Sarasota County Inc

Description

Join Our Lifesaving Team as a Veterinary Assistant

Starting Pay: $17/hour | Full-Time | Rotating Schedule (40 Hours/Week) | Excellent Benefits
Reports To: Veterinary Services Manager

Are you passionate about animal welfare and eager to grow your skills in a veterinary setting? The Humane Society of Sarasota County (HSSC) is seeking a compassionate and motivated Veterinary Assistant to support our Veterinary Services team. This role is ideal for individuals interested in pursuing a career in veterinary medicine and looking for hands-on experience in a fast-paced, mission-driven environment.

As a Veterinary Assistant, you’ll play a vital role in maintaining a clean, organized, and efficient medical department while providing daily care and basic medical support to the animals who need it most.

Why HSSC?

At HSSC, we’re more than a shelter—we’re a community committed to compassion, innovation, and lifesaving impact. As Sarasota’s premier no-kill shelter, we provide care, shelter, and hope to thousands of pets each year. Our Veterinary Services team plays a critical part in ensuring every animal receives the high-quality medical attention they deserve.

This role also offers opportunities for skills development and, with demonstrated competency and alignment with HSSC’s mission and values, the potential for advanced training opportunities.

What You’ll Do

•  Maintain clean, sanitized, and well-stocked medical areas to ensure a safe and sterile environment 
• Provide routine animal care, including feeding, cleaning, and monitoring animals in medical housing
• Assist with animal handling and transportation using low-stress, Fear Free techniques
• Support veterinary staff during routine care, including administering SQ vaccines, assisting with nail trims, and preparing animals for surgery
• Conduct basic diagnostics and administer oral, ocular, and aural medications under supervision
• Follow safety protocols and demonstrate strong attention to detail
• Collaborate with team members and contribute to a positive, supportive work environment
• Perform additional duties as assigned based on organizational needs
   

Requirements

What We’re Looking For

• Entry-level candidates welcome; previous animal care experience preferred but not required
• Fear Free Certified or willing to obtain certification within 60 days of hire
• Commitment to animal welfare and alignment with HSSC’s mission and core values
• Ability to safely and compassionately work with cats and dogs of various sizes and temperaments
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills; ability to work respectfully with staff, volunteers, and the public
• Emotional resilience and professionalism, including the ability to handle sensitive situations such as humane euthanasia
• Reliable transportation and consistent attendance
• Proficiency in English (reading, writing, and verbal communication)
• High school diploma, GED, or equivalent combination of education and experience
• Willingness to foster a collaborative, inclusive, and volunteer-supportive culture
• Ability to understand and uphold all HSSC policies, procedures, and safety protocols
   

Work Environment

This position works in a dynamic shelter environment with:

• Indoor and outdoor workspaces
• Frequent exposure to animals who may be sick, injured, or behaviorally challenged
• High noise levels and fast-paced, emotionally charged situations
• Exposure to animal waste, disinfectants, and cleaning agents
• Possible exposure to zoonotic diseases
• PPE and training provided to ensure a safe work environment

Allergen Notice: Candidates may be exposed to common allergens, including animal dander, saliva, fur, dust, pollen, food allergens (e.g., chicken, fish, peanut butter), and certain medications such as penicillin.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand, walk, bend, stoop, and crouch frequently
• Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds
• Perform repetitive tasks such as cleaning, feeding, and handling animals
• Work in varying temperatures, including outdoor summer heat
• Ability to remain calm and responsive in emergency situations
• Safely handle animals of various sizes and temperaments

Ready to Apply?

If you’re looking for meaningful work that provides hands-on veterinary experience while directly improving the lives of animals, we would love to meet you!

Together, we save lives.