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Veterinary Surgical Assistant Jobs in Reno, NV (NOW HIRING)

... surgery as applicable. Utilize technical skills to the fullest, within state practice acts and as outlined in the NAVTA guidelines for veterinary assistant skills and duties. Mentor other ...

Veterinary Assistant

Sparks, NV · On-site

$16 - $20.25/hr

... surgery as applicable. • Utilize technical skills to the fullest, within state practice acts and as outlined in the NAVTA guidelines for veterinary assistant skills and duties. • Mentor other ...

Veterinary Assistant

Sparks, NV · On-site

$20 - $22/hr

Support surgical preparation, cleaning, and recovery processes * Maintain high standards of ... veterinary assistant experience required * Prior leadership or supervisory experience preferred

We are seeking a Veterinary Assistant to join our team at our Reno Campus. In this role, you'll ... Practice fear free animal restraint during medical/surgical procedures, while ensuring comfort and ...

New

We are seeking a Veterinary Assistant to join our team at our Reno Campus. In this role, you'll ... Practice fear free animal restraint during medical/surgical procedures, while ensuring comfort and ...

New

VCA Lakeside Animal Hospital is seeking an experienced Veterinary Assistant to join our team ... Preparing surgical suite and surgical patients * Filling prescriptions * Performing laboratory work ...

Veterinary Assistant

Reno, NV · On-site

$18 - $21/hr

VCA Lakeside Animal Hospital is seeking an experienced Veterinary Assistant to join our team ... Preparing surgical suite and surgical patients * Filling prescriptions * Performing laboratory work ...

... veterinary assistants, and client care specialists. We are looking to continue to grow our business ... surgery or furthering an interest in surgery. We have a team that works well together and enjoys ...

... veterinary assistants, and client care specialists. We are looking to continue to grow our business ... surgery or furthering an interest in surgery. We have a team that works well together and enjoys ...

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Veterinary Surgical Assistant information

See Reno, NV salary details

$10

$17

$23

How much do veterinary surgical assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for veterinary surgical assistant in Reno, NV is $17.19, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.10 and $18.94 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a veterinary surgical assistant?

Veterinary surgical assistants are trained professionals who support veterinarians during surgical procedures. Their duties include preparing the operating area, sterilizing equipment, monitoring animals under anesthesia, and assisting with pre- and post-operative care. They work closely with the veterinary team to ensure surgeries are performed safely and efficiently, and they also help maintain records and provide compassionate care to animal patients.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a veterinary surgical assistant?

To thrive as a Veterinary Surgical Assistant, you need a solid understanding of animal anatomy, surgical procedures, and sterile techniques, often supported by a veterinary technology certificate or diploma. Familiarity with anesthesia machines, surgical instruments, and veterinary practice management software is typically required. Attention to detail, strong teamwork, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for success in this role. These abilities ensure the safety of animals during surgery, support efficient surgical teams, and contribute to positive patient outcomes.

What are some common challenges faced by veterinary surgical assistants during surgical procedures?

Veterinary Surgical Assistants often encounter challenges such as maintaining strict sterility in the operating room, managing anxious or reactive animals, and responding quickly to the changing needs of the surgical team. They must be attentive and proactive, ensuring all instruments and supplies are available and functioning, while also keeping detailed records. Adapting to different veterinarians' preferences and handling emergencies calmly are key aspects that can make the role demanding but rewarding.

Where do veterinary surgical assistants make the most money?

Veterinary surgical assistants tend to earn higher salaries in regions with a higher cost of living and greater demand for specialized veterinary services. States or areas with a strong presence of veterinary teaching hospitals or specialty clinics often offer higher wages due to increased complexity of procedures and required skills. Certification and experience can also influence earning potential regardless of location.

What cities near Reno, NV are hiring for Veterinary Surgical Assistant jobs?

Cities near Reno, NV with the most Veterinary Surgical Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Veterinary Surgical Assistant job openings in Reno, NV as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 22% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,770 per year, or $17.2 per hour.

$15.99 - $20.44/hr

Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 22 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Support veterinarians and veterinary technicians in providing quality veterinary care for pets.

  • Communicate with clients, staff, and veterinarians to maintain the flow of patients and provide education on pet health and hospital services.

  • Assist with procedures such as preparing for surgeries, monitoring hospitalized or surgical pets, and ensuring a safe and organized hospital environment.


Banfield Pet Hospital rating

5.9

Company rating: 5.9 out of 10

Based on 527 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

35th of 56 rated veterinary


Job description

If you are a current associate, you will need to apply through our internal career site. Please log into Workday and click on the Jobs Hub app or search for Browse Jobs.

SUMMARY OF JOB PURPOSE AND FUNCTION

The Veterinary Assistant supports the veterinarians and veterinary technicians in ensuring quality veterinary care for all pets, advocates for pets, educates clients on all aspects of pet health, and ensures a safe and effective hospital environment.

ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES AND TASKS

Live and exemplify the Five Principles of Mars, Inc. within self and team. Act as the extra eyes, ears and hands for the veterinarian and veterinary technician to ensure the best quality pet care and to maximize the veterinarian's and veterinary technician's productivity. Communicate with veterinarian, veterinary technicians and all other associates to maintain the flow of patients. Provide professional, efficient and exceptional service at all times. This includes performing or preparing procedures that do not require veterinarian or veterinary technician assistance, completing preparatory work for other procedures, ensuring that clients and pets are comfortable in the hospital, and monitoring hospitalized or surgical pets as allowed in the state practice acts. Educate clients about Optimum Wellness Plans, preventive care, pet health needs, hospital services and other issues. Obtain relevant information and history from clients and maintain proper and complete medical charts. Ensure the safety of pets, clients and associates by utilizing safe restraining techniques, following standard protocols, and maintaining clean, sterile and organized treatment areas, exam rooms and labs. Assist with surgery as applicable. Utilize technical skills to the fullest, within state practice acts and as outlined in the NAVTA guidelines for veterinary assistant skills and duties. Mentor other paraprofessionals in the hospital. Other job duties as assigned.

THE FIVE PRINCIPLES

Quality - The consumer is our boss, quality is our work and value for money is our goal. Responsibility - As individuals, we demand total responsibility from ourselves; as associates, we support the responsibility of others. Mutuality - A mutual benefit is a shared benefit; a shared benefit will endure. Efficiency - We use resources to the full, waste nothing and do only what we can do best. Freedom - We need freedom to shape our future; we need profit to remain free.

HIRING QUALIFICATIONS COMPETENCIES

Leadership Action Oriented Customer Focus Listening Peer Relationships Personal Learning Functional Ensure medical quality Effective communication Position Description Veterinary Assistant - Job Description.docx 2 of 3 Last Revised: 05/03/2018 JP Drive for results Functional Skills Priority Setting

CAPABILITIES AND EXPERIENCE (CAN DO)

Ability to multi-task- Manages multiple tasks at one time; quickly and accurately shifts attention among multiple tasks under distracting conditions without loss of accuracy or appearance of frustration. Communication skills - Reads, writes and speaks fluent English, using appropriate grammar, style and vocabulary. Correctly spells commonly used English words and job specific terms. Demonstrates exceptionally strong written and verbal communication skills. Organizational ability - Demonstrates a systematic approach in carrying out assignments. Is very orderly and excels at cutting through confusion and turning chaos into order. Problem solving skills - Demonstrates a strong ability to identify, analyze and solve problems. Translates problems into practical solutions. Client service skills - Consistently ensures the team provides the client with attentive, courteous and informative service. Gains and shows personal satisfaction from delivering great service. Intellectual ability - Accurately and consistently follows instructions delivered in an oral, written or diagram format. Can provide directions. Mathematical ability - Ability to add, subtract, multiply and divide, and to compute rate, ratio and percent; ability to convert units of measurement. Computer skills - Comfortably and confidently uses a computer and specialized medical software, as well as Microsoft Outlook, Word and Excel.

ATTITUDES (WILL DO)

Initiative - shows willingness and aptitude to take appropriate steps in finding solutions to problems; presents options and ideas to enhance current processes or procedures. Takes on additional responsibility when both big and small tasks need to be done. Integrity - Firmly adheres to the values and ethics of Banfield Pet Hospital. Exhibits honesty, discretion, and sound judgment. Cooperativeness - Willing to work with others, collaborating and compromising where necessary; promptly share relevant information with others. Flexibility - Is open to changing situations and opportunities and is willing to perform all tasks assigned. Independence - Able and willing to perform tasks and duties without supervision as appropriate. Tolerance for Stress / Resiliency - Maintains a positive "can do" outlook, rebounds quickly from frustrations and unpleasantness, and maintains composure and friendly demeanor while dealing with stressful situations.

SPECIAL WORKING CONDITIONS

Ability to work at a computer for long periods of time. Ability to be confident around pets (i.e., dogs, cats, birds, reptiles, etc.) Client needs and work volume may often require more than 40 hours per week to complete essential duties of this job. This position requires special hours including working weekends and evenings. Must have mental processes for reasoning, remembering, mathematics and language ability (reading, writing, and speaking the English language) to perform the duties proficiently. The noise level in the work environment is moderately high. Requires sufficient ambulatory skills in order to perform duties while at hospital. Ability to stand, walk, stoop, kneel, crouch, and climb as well as manipulate (lift, carry, move) up to 50 pounds. Requires good hand-eye coordination, arm-hand-finger dexterity with the ability to grasp, and visual acuity to use a keyboard and operate equipment. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus. Associate is routinely exposed to a variety of pets that may bite or scratch, and on occasion, exposed to anesthesia, radiation, biological hazards and medication/controlled substances. Position Description Veterinary Assistant - Job Description.docx 3 of 3 Last Revised: 05/03/2018

EXPERIENCE, EDUCATION AND/OR TRAINING

Certificate of completion from a NAVTA approved Veterinary Assistant program, or the equivalent combination of education, training and experience that provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities. High School Diploma or equivalent preferred. Must be able to perform all required skills of NAVTA approved veterinary assistant programs at a level in which to aid in the efficiency of the practice. Must be at least 18 years old to perform duties involving radiography (x-ray) and exposure to radioactive substances. One year related experience required with customer service preferred.

The pay range for this role is

$15.99 - $20.44 Hourly

The pay range listed reflects a general hiring range for the area, with the specific rate determined based on the candidate's experience, skill level, and education, and may vary depending on location or applicable minimum wage laws.

Here at Banfield, we prioritize your well-being and professional growth by offering a comprehensive total rewards package, including health, wellness, and financial support for you, your family, and even your pets. Check out some of our "Meow-velous" benefits:

  • Comprehensive Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance: Enjoy peace of mind knowing your health and wellness are our top priorities. We've got your essential medical, dental, and vision care covered.

  • Generous Retirement Plans (401(k) and Roth): Invest in your future and enjoy a generous company match to help you build a secure financial future.*

  • Best-in-Class Student Debt Relief Program (for Full-Time DVMs): At Banfield, we understand the significant financial burden of student debt on veterinarians. We are committed to supporting our veterinary professionals and believe that addressing student debt is crucial for the long-term health of the veterinary profession.

  • Paid Time Off and Holidays: Take a break, recharge your wellbeing, and celebrate days of personal significance with paid time off and holidays.*

  • Top-Tier Mental Health and Wellbeing Resources: Your mental health matters. Access our industry-leading resources, including free coaching and counseling sessions, to support your overall wellbeing and help you thrive.*

  • Associate Life Insurance (company-paid) & Supplemental Life Insurance: Protect your loved ones with our company-paid Associate life insurance and have the option to purchase additional coverage for extra peace of mind.

  • Company-Paid Short- and Long-Term Disability: Feel secure knowing that if you face a temporary or long-term disability, you'll have financial protection.

  • Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA): Save on healthcare and dependent care expenses by setting aside pre-tax money. It's a smart way to manage your budget and take care of your needs.

  • Health Savings Account (HSA): Make the most of your healthcare dollars with a tax-advantaged HSA, allowing you to pay for medical expenses with pre-tax funds.

  • Paid Parental Leave: We support growing families with paid parental leave for both birth and adoption, giving you precious time to bond with your new family addition.

  • Continuing Education Allowance (for Eligible Positions): Banfield is committed to supporting the professional growth of our Associates. This allowance provides financial assistance to pursue continuing education opportunities.*

  • Back-Up Child and Elder Care & Family Support Resources: When life's unpredictable moments arise, our backup care and family support benefits provide the help you need to keep things running smoothly.*

  • Fertility and Family Building Support: We're here for you on your journey to parenthood, offering comprehensive support for fertility treatments and family-building options.

  • Digital Exercise Therapy: Stay active and healthy with our digital exercise therapy program, designed to fit your busy lifestyle, and keep you moving.

  • Voluntary Protection Benefits: Get peace of mind with protection against the unexpected. You can purchase coverage to help support you financially during hospital stays, critical illness, and accidents.*

  • Legal Plan: Gain extra peace of mind with our affordable and accessible legal plan which includes coverage for a wide range of legal needs.*

  • Identity Protection: Identity Protection helps safeguard your personal information by alerting you to suspicious activity and providing support if your information is stolen.*

  • Commuter Benefits: Say goodbye to commuting stress with our commuter benefits, making your daily journey more convenient and cost-effective.*

  • Three Free Optimum Wellness Plans for Pets: We care about your furry friends too! Enjoy three free wellness plans to ensure your pets receive the best preventive and general care.*

  • Exclusive Discounts: Unlock a world of savings with our wide variety of exclusive discounts on products and services, making life more affordable and enjoyable.*

Benefits eligibility is based on employment status. Full-time (FT) Associates are eligible for all benefit programs (Student Debt Program available for FT DVMs only); Part-time Associates are eligible for those benefits with an asterisk (*).


What Banfield Pet Hospital employees say

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About Banfield Pet Hospital

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Banfield Pet Hospital was founded in 1955 and is currently located in Vancouver, WA, US. A leader within the pet healthcare industry, it specializes in providing comprehensive preventive and medical services to pets. Operating more than 1,000 hospitals across the United States and Puerto Rico, Banfield's commitment to top-class care is reflected in its mission - "To treat your pet like family, and you like our own." At the core of Banfield's mission is the belief in quality veterinary care and fostering an environment that promotes responsible pet ownership. The company established the Banfield Foundation in 2015 to further emphasize their commitment to pets, which has since then provided over $8 million in grants to projects that enhance the wellbeing of pets.

Industry

Veterinary services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Vancouver, WA, US