About Company
Hope Road Veterinary Hospital has been a cornerstone of animal healthcare in Kingston, Jamaica, for many years. Our mission is to provide compassionate, high-quality medical and surgical care for small animals in a friendly, clean, and professional environment. We are dedicated to promoting responsible pet ownership, preventative health care, and health-related educational opportunities for our clients. Our experienced team of veterinarians and support staff are deeply committed to the well-being of every pet that walks through our doors, treating each one with the kindness and respect they deserve. We foster a collaborative and supportive work culture, believing that a happy and well-trained team is essential for delivering the best possible care to our beloved animal patients and their families in the Kingston community.
Job Description
Are you passionate about animals and eager to begin a rewarding career in veterinary care? Hope Road Veterinary Hospital, a beloved institution in Kingston dedicated to providing exceptional care for pets, is seeking a compassionate and enthusiastic Entry-Level Veterinary Assistant to join our growing team. We pride ourselves on creating a supportive and nurturing environment where both animals and staff thrive. This is a unique opportunity for individuals who are just starting their journey in the animal healthcare industry, offering hands-on experience and a direct path to learning from experienced professionals. At Hope Road, we believe every team member plays a crucial role in the well-being of our furry, feathered, and scaled patients, and we are committed to fostering a culture of empathy, respect, and continuous improvement.
As a Veterinary Assistant, you will be an integral part of our daily operations, contributing significantly to the smooth functioning of our clinic and ensuring the comfort and safety of our animal patients. Your day-to-day responsibilities will involve a wide range of tasks designed to support our veterinarians and veterinary technicians, allowing them to focus on critical medical procedures and diagnoses. This includes assisting with patient restraint during examinations and treatments, maintaining cleanliness and sanitization of exam rooms, surgical areas, and kennels, and preparing laboratory samples. You’ll gain invaluable practical knowledge in animal handling, basic medical terminology, and client communication, developing essential skills that are foundational to a career in veterinary medicine.
This entry-level position is perfect for someone who is ready to immerse themselves in the demanding yet incredibly gratifying world of animal care. We are committed to fostering your growth and providing the mentorship needed for you to succeed, offering opportunities to learn about veterinary practices from the ground up. You will assist with administrative duties such as answering phones, scheduling appointments, and managing patient records, ensuring efficient clinic flow. If you have a strong work ethic, a gentle touch with animals, a keen eye for detail, and a genuine desire to make a difference in their lives and the lives of their owners, we encourage you to apply. Join the Hope Road Veterinary Hospital family and help us continue our tradition of excellence in animal care within the Kingston community. This role demands energy, attentiveness, and a resilient spirit, but promises the immense satisfaction of contributing to animal welfare every single day, building a foundation for a fulfilling career.
Key Responsibilities
- Assist veterinarians and veterinary technicians with patient examinations, treatments, and procedures, including gentle animal restraint.
- Maintain the cleanliness and sanitation of exam rooms, treatment areas, kennels, surgical suites, and other hospital facilities.
- Prepare and sterilize surgical instruments and other medical equipment.
- Perform basic laboratory procedures, such as preparing samples for analysis.
- Assist with client communication, including answering phones, scheduling appointments, and greeting clients and their pets.
- Monitor and replenish medical and cleaning supplies, ensuring the clinic is well-stocked.
- Feed, water, and exercise hospitalized animals, ensuring their comfort and well-being.
- Assist with administrative tasks and maintaining accurate patient records.
Required Skills
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Genuine passion for animals and their welfare
- Strong work ethic and willingness to learn
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
- Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced environment
- Physical ability to lift up to 40 lbs and stand for extended periods
- Compassionate and empathetic approach to animal care
Preferred Qualifications
- Previous experience volunteering or shadowing in an animal clinic or shelter
- Basic computer proficiency for record-keeping
- Knowledge of basic animal behavior and handling techniques
Perks & Benefits
- Opportunity for professional growth and development within the veterinary field
- Supportive and collaborative team environment
- Hands-on training from experienced veterinary professionals
- Competitive salary and opportunities for performance-based increases
- Contribution to animal welfare and community health
How to Apply
Interested candidates are encouraged to apply by clicking on the application link below. Please ensure your application includes a resume detailing your relevant experience and a cover letter explaining your passion for animal care and why you are a good fit for Hope Road Veterinary Hospital. We look forward to reviewing your application and potentially welcoming you to our dedicated team.