Veterinary Care Assistant

Job Description

VETERINARY CARE ASSISTANT
Vets for Pets Colchester – Inside Pets at Home

Vets for Pets Colchester is seeking a motivated, reliable and multitasking Veterinary Care Assistant (VCA) to join our established team.

Working within a progressive, multi-disciplinary first opinion practice, you will support our clinical and client care teams in order to achieve a high level of client and patient care, playing a vital role in the smooth day-to-day running of the practice. For the right candidate, this role offers excellent professional development within the veterinary sector.

About Us

Our purpose-built practice in Colchester is equipped with advanced diagnostic, medical, and surgical facilities and provides high-level inpatient and outpatient care. We work closely with our associated Referral Hospital in Stanway to ensure seamless continuity of care, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Across our two Colchester facilities, our wider team includes:

• 30 Veterinary Surgeons
• 25 Registered Veterinary Nurses
• 4 Student Veterinary Nurses
• 12 Veterinary Care Assistants
• 3 Practice Managers
• 4 Hospital Operations Coordinators
• 15 Client Care Advisors

Vets for Pets Colchester has experienced consistent growth over the past 20 years, with continued investment in facilities, services, and team development.

The Role

As a Veterinary Care Assistant, you will provide hands-on support to our vets, nurses and client care teams, ensuring high standards of patient and client care throughout your working day.

Key Responsibilities

• Client communication, appointment booking, and assisting with patient admissions
• Supporting veterinary surgeons and nurses during consultations and procedures
• Assisting with patient handling and restraint in a calm and compassionate manner
• Monitoring inpatients and supporting daily care routines
• Maintaining cleanliness and hygiene of wards, kennels, and clinical areas
• Laboratory maintenance and equipment cleaning and sterilisation
• Stock control and general upkeep
• Ensuring clinical areas are organised and prepared for daily caseloads
• Supporting efficient patient flow and hospital operations

What We’re Looking For

We are seeking a proactive individual who enjoys working in a busy environment and takes pride in maintaining high standards.

Key Attributes

• Dedication: Conscientious and reliable with a strong work ethic
• Teamwork: Collaborative, respectful approach within a multidisciplinary team
• Initiative: Confident taking responsibility for tasks and working independently when required
• Organisation: Able to prioritise workload effectively
• Passion: Genuine care for animals and excellent client service

Previous experience in a veterinary practice is desirable; however, full training will be provided on site.

About You

Essential Requirements

• Excellent communication and client care skills
• Eagerness to learn and develop within the veterinary environment

Desirable

• Qualifications within the Animal Care industry

Professional Attributes

• High standards of patient care and attention to detail
• Proactive and organised approach to work
• Commitment to exceptional animal welfare

Working Pattern

• Full-time position
• Day shifts mainly (with occasional night and twilight shifts available if you are interested)
• Flexible shift patterns available
• Minimum of 1 in 4 weekends

Salary & Benefits

• Salary from £26,500 – £28,500 per annum (FTE), depending on your level of relevant client care experience
• Flexible shift patterns (full-time or part-time considered)
• Weekend work on a 1 in 4 rota basis
• 28 days annual leave including bank holidays
• Pension scheme
• Colleague discount including 20% discount at Pets at Home
• Full training and ongoing development support
• The chance to be part of a growing, forward-thinking veterinary team

Why Join Us?

This is a brilliant opportunity for someone who loves working with people and animals, wants variety in their day, and is looking for a supportive team where their contribution is genuinely valued.

• Modern, well-equipped veterinary facilities
• Positive and supportive team culture
• Collaborative, learning-focused environment
• Excellent long-term career development opportunities

If this sounds like you, we’d love to hear from you.

How to Apply

Individuals interested in developing their career are encouraged to apply or arrange a confidential discussion.

📧 Email: recruitcolchester@vets4pets.com
🌐 Application: Online submission available

All enquiries and applications are treated confidentially and without obligation.