Veterinary Assistant (Large Animal)

Job Summary

The Veterinary Assistant is responsible for maintaining a clean and stocked service, providing basic animal care needs, and allowing the Registered Veterinary Technician team to work efficiently to complete orders and patient treatments to achieve the goals of the Purdue University Veterinary Hospital. This includes performing basic technical skills under the direct supervision of a Registered Veterinary Technician or Veterinarian. This position requires skills and proficiency in understanding patient restraint, hospital cleaning protocols, and hospital treatment protocols to anticipate need. Veterinary Assistants will have the skills and training necessary to work independently on tasks and teach basic restraint and husbandry skills to veterinary and veterinary nursing students. They may participate in the mentorship of newly hired Veterinary Assistants. Assignment to departments and shifts based upon hospital needs, including holiday and on-call coverage as required. This posting may be filled at multiple levels (S1 or S2). The hiring manager will determine the job level based on the skills, experience, and qualifications of the selected candidate.

Pay starts at $15/hour. Purdue University offers a substantial benefits package including medical, dental, and vision insurance as well as a generous paid time off package for sick and vacation days.

Required:

• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills
• Ability to work under pressure in emergency situations
• Ability to read and write in English
• Ability to lift and carry 25-50 pounds frequently and 60 pounds occasionally
• Must have solid skills handling horses, cattle, and other farm animals

S1 requirements:

• High School Diploma/GED
• Two years of relevant work experience (experience in a veterinary hospital setting and/or customer service experience)

S2 requirements:

• High School Diploma/GED
• Three years of relevant work experience (experience in a veterinary hospital setting and/or customer service experience)

Preferred:

• NAVTA Veterinary Assistant certificate 
• Specialty veterinary experience
• Previous stocksmanship and/or equestrian work

Additional Information:

• Purdue will not sponsor an employment related visa for this position
• A background check will be required for employment in this position
• FLSA: Exempt (Not Eligible For Overtime)
• Retirement Eligibility: Defined Contributions Waiting Period
• Purdue University is an EOE/AA employer. All individuals, including minorities, women, individuals with disabilities, and veterans are encouraged to apply

Benefits of a Purdue Career:

• Competitive benefits package including generous paid sick time and vacation 
• Tuition remission (Purdue and Purdue Global)
• Continuing education programs 
• Uniform allowance
• Opportunities for promotion and career development
• A highly supportive work environment that mentors employees to meet their goals, including specialization in an area of their choosing
• Free CityBus access
• Employee discount program

 
Benefits of working/living in West Lafayette, IN:

• Low cost of living
• Easy access to Chicago and Indianapolis
• Variety of local entertainment options

Education

Typically requires a high school diploma/GED

Experience

 Minimum of 3 years of experience

FLSA Status

Non-Exempt