ER/ICU Veterinary Assistant, AERA

ER/ICU Veterinary Assistant

The 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 isn’t just a goal—it’s 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 America’s 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/experience
• We offer the highest industry-standard differentials for weekend and overnight shifts!

Anticipated Schedule:

• Full Time
  • Day/Swing Shifts Available
  • 3 x 12 / 4x10 Hour Shifts

Key Responsibilities

• Support veterinarians and technicians during exams, treatments, and procedures
• Prepare 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 areas
• Prepare surgical packs and sterilize instruments
• Safely restrain patients for exams, diagnostics, and treatments
• Obtain accurate patient weights and vital signs
• Perform basic phlebotomy on stable patients as directed
• Provide routine patient care including walking dogs, feeding patients, changing bedding, and cleaning cages
• Prepare patients for inpatient procedures
• Maintain clean, dry, and comfortable patient housing in ICU, ER, Specialty, and wards
• Restock and organize ICU, treatment, surgery, radiology, ultrasound, exam rooms, laboratory, and pharmacy areas
• Clean and maintain hospital equipment and workspaces
• Complete laundry, mopping, sweeping, and general sanitation duties
• Enter accurate information into patient medical records and treatment sheets
• Provide basic client instructions as directed (home care, medications, post-operative care)
• Cross-train and assist other hospital departments as needed
• Maintain at least one year of service in the role to be eligible for advancement

Qualifications:

• High school diploma or GED required
• Minimum of 1 year of relevant experience as a veterinary technician or assistant
• Knowledge of safety protocols and proper sanitation/sterilization practices
• Understanding of commonly used veterinary medical terminology and equipment
• Ability to calculate accurate medication dosages and administer injections
• Familiarity with CPR and rescue breathing preferred
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• English fluency (reading and speaking) required , additional languages a plus
• Ability to follow directions from multiple team members and accurately execute instructions
• Demonstrates initiative and anticipates the needs of veterinarians and nursing staff
• Ability to remain calm, think critically, and respond appropriately in emergency situations
• Professional demeanor, good hygiene, and strong client service skills with tact and empathy
• Team-oriented mindset with the ability to work independently or under supervision

Benefits Include:

• 401(k) with matching
• Health, Dental, and Vision insurance
• Health Savings Account (HSA) / Flexible Spending Account (FSA)
• Life and Disability insurance
• Paid Time Off (PTO) and Holidays
• Employee Assistance Program and Discounts (including Pet Discount)
• Professional development
• CE Allowance
• Uniform stipend
• Access to VetBloom for RACE-approved continuing education and training

Why 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 you’re ready to take on a rewarding role that combines communication, organization, and compassion, we’d 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

Ethos Veterinary Health is at the forefront of innovation and world-class medicine. As the premier network of over 140 specialty and emergency hospitals across North America, Ethos brings together a dedicated community of more than 1,500 specialized doctors providing care for nearly 2 million pets annually. The integrated and collaborative network of veterinary professionals utilize state-of-the-art technology and a scientific, evidence-based approach to deliver compassionate, unparalleled care and rewarding careers. Committed to revolutionizing veterinary medicine, Ethos sets the standard in veterinary excellence. Discover more at EthosVet.com.
Ethos Veterinary Health offers a comprehensive benefits program including medical, dental, vision, a 401k with employer match, and paid time off (including sick time) for all eligible employees. The team can provide more information about compensation and benefits for your specific location during the process. For positions based in Colorado, Ethos provides eligible employees with paid sick and safe leave and public health emergency leave in accordance with the requirements of Colorado's Healthy Families and Workplaces Act.
Ethos is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Ethos does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, physical or mental disability, national origin, veteran status or any other basis covered by appropriate law. All employment is decided based on qualifications, competence, merit, and business need.