Veterinary Assistant

The Veterinary Assistant will maintain accurate and detailed patient medical records, prepare surgical instruments and equipment and assist the veterinarian during clinical examinations.

This is an on-site role in Secunda, Mpumalanga. You will work alongside an experienced and supportive team in a professional setting. The team looks after its own and expects the same in return. Take the next step in your career and apply before the closing date.

Normal working hours apply, with occasional flexibility required during busy periods.

• Prepare surgical instruments and equipment by cleaning, sterilising, and packing autoclave loads according to infection control protocols.
• Perform laboratory tests including blood smears, urinalysis, and faecal examinations, recording results in patient records.
• Provide nursing care to hospitalised patients including wound management, fluid therapy, nutritional support, and comfort care.
• Administer medications to patients as prescribed via oral, topical, injectable, and other routes, accurately recording all treatments given.
• Take and develop diagnostic radiographs under veterinary supervision, positioning patients for optimal image quality.
• Advise and educate pet owners on post-operative care, medication administration, diet, parasite control, and general pet care.
• Monitor anaesthetised patients closely throughout surgical procedures, observing vital signs and alerting the veterinarian to any changes.

• Proficiency in clinical skills including patient restraint, venipuncture, IV catheter placement, and anaesthesia monitoring.
• A minimum of one to three years of experience working in a veterinary clinic, animal hospital, or animal welfare organisation.
• A diploma or degree in veterinary nursing from an accredited institution and registration with the South African Veterinary Council.
• Physical stamina to stand for long periods, lift medium-sized animals, and assist with animal restraint.
• Excellent animal handling skills with the ability to work calmly and confidently with nervous or aggressive animals.
• Experience in operating veterinary diagnostic equipment including blood analysers, autoclaves, and radiography machines.
• Strong communication skills to interact effectively with veterinarians, colleagues, and pet owners.