Job Description

Job Description

Job Description

Description:

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.

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.

• 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
  

• 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
  

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.

• 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

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.

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