ER/ICU Veterinary Assistant, AERA

ER/ICU Veterinary AssistantThe Animal Emergency & Referral Associates in West Caldwell, NJ is hiring a dedicated and enthusiastic Certified Veterinary Assistant/ Experienced Veterinary Assistant to join our Emergency team!At Animal Emergency & Referral Associates (AERA), excellence isnt just a goal—its who we are. As an AAHA-accredited hospital, AERA represents the gold standard in veterinary medicine and patient care. We are proud recipients of the 2024 Neighborhood Fave award, recognized by Newsweek as one of Americas Best Animal Hospitals of 2025, and honored with the dvm360 Hospital Design Merit Award for our innovative, state-of-the-art facility. In addition, AERA has been recognized as a Distinguished Kindness Workplace, reflecting our deep commitment to a supportive, respectful, and people-first culture.With comprehensive services including 24/7 emergency care, advanced anesthesia, diagnostics and radiology, internal medicine, orthopedic and soft-tissue surgery, and radiation oncology, AERA stands at the forefront of specialty and emergency veterinary medicine—where advanced clinical expertise meets genuine compassion for patients, clients, and each other.Position Overview:The purpose of this position is to provide support to Doctors and Veterinary Nurses so they may continue to provide excellent patient care. The Veterinary Assistant must pay attention to detail and maintain very high standards of cleanliness and care. The Veterinary Assistant must be able to communicate well with coworkers to ensure overall accuracy and satisfaction. Compensation:$20-$25/hr. based on skill level/experienceWe offer the highest industry-standard differentials for weekend and overnight shifts!Anticipated Schedule:Full TimeDay/Swing Shifts Available3 x 12 / 4x10 Hour ShiftsKey ResponsibilitiesSupport veterinarians and technicians during exams, treatments, and proceduresPrepare ER/triage areas and assist with procedure setup (e.g., laceration repair, urinary obstruction cases)Set up, break down, clean, and disinfect surgery and treatment areasPrepare surgical packs and sterilize instrumentsSafely restrain patients for exams, diagnostics, and treatmentsObtain accurate patient weights and vital signsPerform basic phlebotomy on stable patients as directedProvide routine patient care including walking dogs, feeding patients, changing bedding, and cleaning cagesPrepare patients for inpatient proceduresMaintain clean, dry, and comfortable patient housing in ICU, ER, Specialty, and wardsRestock and organize ICU, treatment, surgery, radiology, ultrasound, exam rooms, laboratory, and pharmacy areasClean and maintain hospital equipment and workspacesComplete laundry, mopping, sweeping, and general sanitation dutiesEnter accurate information into patient medical records and treatment sheetsProvide basic client instructions as directed (home care, medications, post-operative care)Cross-train and assist other hospital departments as neededMaintain at least one year of service in the role to be eligible for advancementQualifications: High school diploma or GED requiredMinimum of 1 year of relevant experience as a veterinary technician or assistantKnowledge of safety protocols and proper sanitation/sterilization practicesUnderstanding of commonly used veterinary medical terminology and equipmentAbility to calculate accurate medication dosages and administer injectionsFamiliarity with CPR and rescue breathing preferredStrong written and verbal communication skillsEnglish fluency (reading and speaking) required, additional languages a plusAbility to follow directions from multiple team members and accurately execute instructionsDemonstrates initiative and anticipates the needs of veterinarians and nursing staffAbility to remain calm, think critically, and respond appropriately in emergency situationsProfessional demeanor, good hygiene, and strong client service skills with tact and empathyTeam-oriented mindset with the ability to work independently or under supervisionBenefits Include:401(k) with matchingHealth, Dental, and Vision insuranceHealth Savings Account (HSA) / Flexible Spending Account (FSA)Life and Disability insurancePaid Time Off (PTO) and HolidaysEmployee Assistance Program and Discounts (including Pet Discount)Professional development CE AllowanceUniform stipendAccess to VetBloom for RACE-approved continuing education and trainingWhy Choose AERA?Work alongside a compassionate and talented team dedicated to excellence in veterinary care.Make a meaningful impact by being an advocate for pets and their families.Enjoy a dynamic, fast-paced environment that keeps you engaged and challenged.Be part of a workplace that values your contributions and supports your growth.Ongoing opportunities for continued education such as lunch and learns hosted by various vendors and entities.If youre ready to take on a rewarding role that combines communication, organization, and compassion, wed love to hear from you. Apply today and become an essential part of a team where your efforts truly make a difference—one pet and one family at a time! For more information about our hospital, please visit

Created: 2026-04-20