Certified Veterinary Assistant

Warren Woods Veterinary Hospital

Job Description

Certified Veterinary Assistant (CVA) - Job Description

Reports To: MDVM/Hospital Manager

Position Summary

The Certified Veterinary Assistant (CVA) provides skilled support to veterinarians and technicians in patient care, diagnostics, and client service. This role requires successful completion of a certified veterinary assistant program and demonstrates competency beyond an entry-level assistant, while still working under the supervision of a licensed technician or veterinarian.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

·         • All Tech Assistant duties.

·         • Safely restrain and handle patients during exams and procedures.

·         • Collect blood, urine, and fecal samples for diagnostics.

·         • Run in-house lab tests (CBC, chemistries, urinalysis, SNAP tests).

·         • Place IV catheters and administer fluids under supervision.

·         • Assist with radiographs using proper safety protocols.

·         • Prepare and maintain surgical packs and assist in sterile procedure setup.

·         • Provide nursing care for hospitalized patients (feeding, treatments, monitoring).

·         • Dispense medications as directed by a veterinarian.

·         • Communicate clearly with clients about basic home care and follow-up instructions.

·         • Mentor Tech Assistants and support training of new staff.

Qualifications

·         • High school diploma or equivalent.

·         • Completion of an approved Certified Veterinary Assistant (CVA) program.

·         • Strong animal handling and clinical skills.

·         • Excellent teamwork and communication skills.

·         • Veterinary hospital experience preferred.

Physical Requirements

·         • Ability to lift 50 lbs unassisted.

·         • Standing, walking, bending, and kneeling for extended periods.

·         • Handling animals in stressful or emergent situations.

Work Environment

·         • Exposure to animal waste, blood, medications, and cleaning agents.

·         • Noise from animals and hospital equipment.

·         • Fast-paced environment requiring flexibility.

Core Competencies

·         • Patient care and safety.

·         • Technical proficiency.

·         • Teamwork and dependability.

·         • Attention to detail.

·         • Professionalism and client service orientation.

 
National Veterinary Associates is a leading global pet care organization united in the love of animals and the people who love them.
 
At NVA, we’re on a mission to improve the lives of pets and the people who love them. That starts by empowering our care teams. We nurture their growth with resources to practice medicine their way. Our network of 1,000 hospitals connects them to a community of professionals who share their passion so they can learn and grow together. Our national presence enables us to deliver technology and innovations that simplify work and expand care for all. At NVA, we're committed to your professional growth. We support your entire career journey, offering opportunities ranging from mentorship to ownership.
 
NVA offers a comprehensive benefits program including medical, dental, vision, a 401k with employer match, and paid time off (including sick time) for all eligible employees.  The team can provide more information about compensation and benefits for your specific location during the process.  For positions based in Colorado, NVA provides eligible employees with paid sick and safe leave and public health emergency leave in accordance with the requirements of Colorado's Healthy Families and Workplaces Act.
 
NVA is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, protected veteran or disabled status, or genetic information. Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, Los Angeles Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance, and any other state or local hiring regulations, we will consider for employment any qualified applicant, including those with arrest and conviction records, in a manner consistent with the applicable regulation.