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Veterinary Assistant Surgery Jobs in Raleigh, NC

Park Veterinary Hospital

Veterinary Assistant

Durham, NC · On-site

$15 - $21/hr

???? Full-Time Veterinary Assistant ???? ???? Park Veterinary Hospital & Urgent Care - Durham, NC ... surgical duties. Key Responsibilities * Animal restraint (Fear Free & Cat Friendly preferred ...

Washington County SPCA

Veterinary Assistant

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$26/hr

Summary: The Veterinary Assistant plays a key role in the care of animals at the SPCA of Wake ... The medical team works closely with the staff veterinarian & surgeon, in addition to multiple ...

SPCA of Wake County

Veterinary Assistant

Raleigh, NC · On-site

Summary: The Veterinary Assistant plays a key role in the care of animals at the SPCA of Wake ... The medical team works closely with the staff veterinarian & surgeon, in addition to multiple ...

Petfolk

Veterinary Assistant

Cary, NC · On-site

$14.50 - $18.25/hr

Skilled in venipuncture, surgical/dental assistance, and patient handling * Passionate about Fear ... Veterinary Assistant Talent Pool for Raleigh today. When the right opportunity comes up, we'll ...

Petco

Veterinary Assistant

Durham, NC · On-site

$15.25 - $19/hr

Help prepare patients for surgical and dental procedures and assist doctor and/or veterinary technician in anesthetizing patients. Under supervision of the veterinarian and/or veterinary technician ...

Petco

Veterinary Assistant

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$15.25 - $19.25/hr

Help prepare patients for surgical and dental procedures and assist doctor and/or veterinary technician in anesthetizing patients. Under supervision of the veterinarian and/or veterinary technician ...

Petco

Veterinary Assistant

Durham, NC · On-site

$15.25 - $19/hr

Help prepare patients for surgical and dental procedures and assist doctor and/or veterinary technician in anesthetizing patients. Under supervision of the veterinarian and/or veterinary technician ...

Petco

Veterinary Assistant

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$15.25 - $19.25/hr

Help prepare patients for surgical and dental procedures and assist doctor and/or veterinary technician in anesthetizing patients. Under supervision of the veterinarian and/or veterinary technician ...

GoodVets

Veterinary Assistant

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$16.50 - $20/hr

Prepare surgical and exam rooms, including sterilization of instruments and equipment * Observe and ... Our Veterinary Assistants Have: * Previous experience in animal care or veterinary setting ...

Petco

Veterinary Assistant

Holly Springs, NC · On-site

$13.75 - $17/hr

Help prepare patients for surgical and dental procedures and assist doctor and/or veterinary technician in anesthetizing patients. Under supervision of the veterinarian and/or veterinary technician ...

Petco

Veterinary Assistant

Holly Springs, NC · On-site

$13.75 - $17/hr

Help prepare patients for surgical and dental procedures and assist doctor and/or veterinary technician in anesthetizing patients. Under supervision of the veterinarian and/or veterinary technician ...

Petco

Veterinary Assistant

Cary, NC · On-site

$14.50 - $18.25/hr

Help prepare patients for surgical and dental procedures and assist doctor and/or veterinary technician in anesthetizing patients. Under supervision of the veterinarian and/or veterinary technician ...

Petco

Veterinary Assistant

Cary, NC · On-site

$14.50 - $18.25/hr

Help prepare patients for surgical and dental procedures and assist doctor and/or veterinary technician in anesthetizing patients. Under supervision of the veterinarian and/or veterinary technician ...

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All JobsVeterinary Assistant Surgery JobsVeterinary Assistant Surgery Jobs in Raleigh, NC

Veterinary Assistant Surgery information

See Raleigh, NC salary details

$9

$16

$23

How much do veterinary assistant surgery jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for veterinary assistant surgery in Raleigh, NC is $16.76, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.71 and $18.46 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the top pay for a veterinary assistant?

The top pay for a veterinary assistant typically ranges from $15 to $20 per hour, with some experienced or specialized assistants earning higher wages. Salaries can vary based on location, experience, and the type of veterinary practice, and additional certifications or skills may lead to higher compensation.

What is the difference between Veterinary Assistant Surgery vs Veterinary Technician?

AspectVeterinary Assistant SurgeryVeterinary Technician
CredentialsOn-the-job training, sometimes certificationRequires formal education (associate degree) and licensing
Work EnvironmentAssists in surgical prep and post-op care under supervisionPerforms advanced surgical procedures, diagnostics, and anesthesia
Job ResponsibilitiesPrepares surgical areas, assists during surgeries, monitors recoveryPerforms surgeries, administers anesthesia, diagnoses, and treatment

Veterinary Assistant Surgery typically involves supporting surgical procedures under supervision, focusing on prep and post-op care. Veterinary Technicians have more advanced training, perform surgeries, and handle diagnostics. Both roles are essential in veterinary surgical teams, but Technicians have greater responsibilities and credentials.

Can I live off being a vet assistant?

Veterinary assistants typically earn a modest salary that may not be sufficient as the sole income for a household. Many assist in animal care, perform basic medical tasks, and work in veterinary clinics, but their pay often requires supplementary income or advancement to higher roles for financial stability.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Veterinary Assistant Surgery, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Veterinary Assistant Surgery, you need a solid understanding of animal anatomy, surgical procedures, and basic veterinary care, typically supported by a high school diploma and on-the-job training or a veterinary assistant certification. Familiarity with surgical instruments, sterilization techniques, and veterinary practice management software is essential. Attention to detail, compassion for animals, effective communication, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are standout soft skills. These abilities are crucial for supporting veterinarians, ensuring animal safety, and maintaining a smooth surgical workflow.

Do veterinary assistants do surgery?

Veterinary assistants typically do not perform surgeries but support veterinary surgeons by preparing the operating area, restraining animals, and assisting with post-operative care. They may help with equipment setup and cleaning but do not conduct surgical procedures, which require veterinary technician or veterinarian qualifications.

What are some common challenges Veterinary Assistant Surgery professionals face when supporting surgical procedures?

Veterinary Assistant Surgery professionals often encounter challenges such as maintaining strict aseptic technique in a fast-paced environment, anticipating the needs of surgeons during procedures, and managing the stress of caring for animals in critical condition. They must also be prepared to assist with a variety of surgical instruments and equipment, often adapting quickly to changing situations. Effective communication with veterinarians, technicians, and other team members is essential to ensure patient safety and successful surgical outcomes.

What are veterinary assistant surgery jobs?

Veterinary assistant surgery jobs involve supporting veterinarians and veterinary technicians during surgical procedures on animals. Duties typically include preparing surgical instruments, monitoring animals before and after surgery, maintaining sterile environments, and providing post-operative care. Veterinary assistants in surgery also help with patient restraint, record-keeping, and ensuring all equipment is properly cleaned and maintained. This role requires attention to detail, compassion for animals, and the ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced medical environment.

How long does it take to be a CVT?

Becoming a Certified Veterinary Technician (CVT) typically requires completing a veterinary technology program accredited by the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), which takes about two years for an associate degree. After graduation, candidates must pass the Veterinary Technician National Examination (VTNE) to become certified, a process that can take several months depending on individual preparation and scheduling.
What cities near Raleigh, NC are hiring for Veterinary Assistant Surgery jobs? Cities near Raleigh, NC with the most Veterinary Assistant Surgery job openings:
Veterinary Assistant Surgery jobs near you
Infographic showing various Veterinary Assistant Surgery job openings in Raleigh, NC as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $34,858 per year, or $16.8 per hour.

Veterinary Surgery Scrub Assistant

Triangle Veterinary Referral Hospital

Durham, NC • On-site

$23 - $26/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 20 days ago

Job description

Veterinary Surgery Scrub Assistant
Location: Durham, North Carolina
Schedule: Full-time, First Shift with On-Call Requirements
About Us
The Triangle’s premier emergency and specialty hospital is seeking a highly skilled and motivated Surgery Scrub Assistant to join our surgery team.
We provide 24/7 emergency services and specialty referrals in surgery, internal medicine, cardiology, oncology, radiology, and rehabilitation. Our culture is fast-paced, collaborative, and supportive, with an emphasis on professional growth and utilizing your skills to their fullest potential.
Job Summary
The primary focus of this role is working closely alongside the surgeon in the operating room by sterile scrubbing into procedures and providing direct intraoperative support.
The Surgery Scrub Assistant also plays an essential role in supporting the surgery department by assisting with patient flow, surgical preparation, sterile processing, and client communication. This position helps ensure the surgery service runs efficiently by supporting both clinical and operational workflows.
This role requires a proactive individual who is organized, detail-oriented, and comfortable working in a fast-paced specialty environment. Candidates should possess strong communication skills, a positive attitude, and the ability to work independently while supporting a collaborative team.
The Surgery Scrub Assistant works closely with surgeons, anesthesia technicians, surgery technicians, sterile processing, rehabilitation, and client care teams to maintain a high standard of patient care and surgical efficiency.
Essential Job Functions
Scrub Assistant amp; Intraoperative Support
  • Sterile scrub into surgical procedures and provide direct assistance to the surgeon throughout procedures.
  • Maintain sterile technique and preserve the integrity of the sterile field during all procedures.
  • Prepare, organize, and pass surgical instruments, supplies, sutures, and implants during surgery.
  • Anticipate surgeon needs and ensure instruments and materials are readily available throughout procedures.
  • Assist with surgical draping, patient positioning, and maintaining surgical workflow efficiency.
  • Perform surgical counts of instruments, sharps, and sponges according to department protocols.
  • Support intraoperative efficiency by assisting with equipment setup, troubleshooting, and room readiness.
  • Ensure operating room organization and preparedness prior to procedures.

Patient amp; Appointment Support
  • Assist with patient intake for surgery appointments, including consults, rechecks, and drop-offs.
  • Prepare patients for discharge, including reviewing discharge instructions with clients.
  • Assist with patient restraint and handling for treatments and procedures.
  • Support patient care and husbandry while maintaining proper infectious disease protocols.

Surgical Preparation amp; Workflow Support
  • Perform dirty preparation and sterile preparation for surgical patients.
  • Flip and prepare surgery prep tables between procedures.
  • Set up post-operative recovery kennels to ensure readiness for incoming patients.
  • Assist in preparing patients for surgery, including shaving and basic prep duties.
  • Help maintain efficient patient flow throughout the surgery department.

Operating Room amp; Sterile Processing Support
  • Set up, break down, and clean operating rooms between procedures.
  • Clean, disinfect, wrap, and sterilize surgical instruments.
  • Maintain cleanliness and organization of surgery prep areas and OR suites.
  • Stock surgery areas, prep spaces, and operating rooms with necessary supplies.
  • Assist with maintaining surgical equipment and identifying supply needs.
  • Ensure proper cleaning protocols are followed for surgical instruments and equipment.

Department Support
  • Assist surgery technicians and clinicians with daily workflow needs.
  • Maintain a clean, organized, and well-stocked surgery department.
  • Communicate effectively with team members to support department efficiency.
  • Assist with additional departmental tasks as needed to support patient care and workflow.

Competencies
  • Teamwork and Collaboration
  • Initiative and Self-Motivation
  • Technical Competency
  • Flexibility and Adaptability
  • Problem Solving and Analytical Skills
  • Strong Written and Verbal Communication Skills

Qualifications
Required:
  • High school diploma or GED equivalent
  • 1+ years of veterinary assistant or veterinary support experience preferred
  • Comfortable working in a fast-paced clinical environment
  • Ability to lift, restrain, and handle animals safely
  • Strong organizational, communication, and multitasking skills

Preferred:
  • Previous experience in surgery, anesthesia, sterile processing, or specialty veterinary medicine
  • Interest in pursuing a veterinary technician or animal science career path
  • Familiarity with veterinary medical records and hospital software systems

​Benefits:
  • Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance
  • HSA and FSA options
  • Short-term amp; long-term disability, life, accident, and critical illness coverage
  • 401(k) with employer match
  • Paid Parental Leave
  • PTO, CE allowance, CE PTO, uniform allowance
  • Veterinary service discounts

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