Veterinary Assistant

VCA Northwest Veterinary Specialists is adding an experienced Veterinary Assistant to our Medical Oncology team.

Location : 16756 SE 82nd Dr, Clackamas, OR 97015

Compensation : $ 21 - $ 24 / hr

Schedule : FT Tuesday - Friday 8 am - 6 pm

Job Summary

Support the Medical Oncology service by providing compassionate, detail-oriented care to patients undergoing cancer treatment. Assist veterinarians and technicians with chemotherapy administration, diagnostics, and patient monitoring while ensuring a safe, efficient, and supportive environment for patients, clients, and team members. Uphold VCA’s Mission Statement and deliver exceptional service through every interaction.

Key Responsibilities

Patient Care & Oncology Support

• Provide compassionate care to oncology patients, including those undergoing chemotherapy, radiation support, or palliative treatment.
• Assist with chemotherapy appointments, including patient preparation, restraint, and post-treatment care under supervision.
• Follow all safety protocols for handling chemotherapeutic agents and hazardous materials.
• Monitor patients for changes in condition, adverse reactions, and overall comfort; promptly communicate concerns to the medical team.
• Assist with diagnostic procedures, including imaging support and collection of laboratory samples (blood, urine, cytology).
• Maintain accurate patient identification and treatment documentation.

Client Experience & Communication

• Deliver client care aligned with VCA’s Three Steps of Service:
  • Greet clients warmly with eye contact and professionalism
  • Use client and pet names to build connection
  • Clearly communicate next steps and provide timely updates
• Support the team in reinforcing discharge instructions, medication administration, and home care for oncology patients.
• Provide empathetic, compassionate communication to clients managing long-term or serious illness cases.

Hospital Operations & Team Support

• Maintain cleanliness and organization of oncology treatment areas, ensuring readiness for chemotherapy and advanced care procedures.
• Assist with inventory management, including oncology drugs, PPE, and specialized supplies.
• Support scheduling, patient flow, and coordination of longer, complex oncology appointments.
• Cross-train to assist with other departments and front office functions as needed to support workflow.

Medical Records, Safety & Compliance

• Maintain accurate, timely medical records, including treatments, diagnostics, and charges.
• Strictly follow hospital protocols for chemotherapy safety, PPE use, waste disposal, and infection control.
• Recognize and report safety concerns, including exposure risks or equipment issues.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Veterinary experience preferred: oncology or specialty experience preferred.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to follow strict safety protocols.
• Excellent communication skills, with a compassionate and empathetic approach.
• Ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced, emotionally sensitive environment.
• Team-oriented with a commitment to high-quality patient care and continuous learning.
• Basic computer and phone skills required.

Education & Experience

• High School Diploma or equivalent required.
• Veterinary assistant experience or relevant training preferred.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to lift up to 40 lbs and stand/walk for extended periods.
• Frequent bending, reaching, and patient handling.
• Adequate visual, auditory, and fine motor skills for clinical duties.
• Reliable attendance and scheduling flexibility required.
• Manageable animal-related allergies (if applicable).

Why join the VCA Northwest Veterinary Specialists Medical Oncology Team:

Benefits: VCA offers a comprehensive benefits package to support the health, well-being, and professional development of its associates.

• Mental Health: Access to the Lyra mental health platform, including up to 12 therapy sessions per year, guided self-care, and meditation resources.

• Full Healthcare: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance with HSA/FSA options, as well as fertility benefits.

• Paid Time Off: Paid vacation, sick, parental, and bereavement leave.

• Financial Support: 100% employer-paid short-term and long-

• Protection: Access to the Better Together Fund for crisis support in qualifying situations.

• Perks: Rabies prophylaxis vaccine and titer testing.

• Education: Continuing Education (CE) allowance for veterinarians and credentialed veterinary technicians, along with access to WOOF University®, which includes RACE-approved courses.

• Latest Tech & Innovation: Opportunities to work with the latest technology and programs that encourage innovation and creativity, such as VCA Next.

• Sponsorships: Penn Foster and VTNE test prep sponsorships, as well as VTNE prep courses.

• Discounts: Discounted Low-Stress Handling, Fear Free, and AAFP Cat-Friendly certifications, along with VETGirl and VIN subscriptions.

• Freebies: Free NAVTA membership and a free subscription to Plumb’s.

• Programs: Leadership development and mentorship programs.

• Retirement: 401(k) retirement savings plan with increasing employer contribution.

• Full Coverage: 100% employer-paid professional liability coverage and life insurance coverage equal to one year’s salary.

• Pet Care Perks: Generous pet care discounts and VIP programs.

• Advisory Services: Student loan advisory services, tools, and resources.

• Legal Resources: Access to legal resources for common legal services.

• Transfer Opportunities: Nationwide hospital transfer opportunities.

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

Benefits: We offer competitive compensation along with a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, vision and paid vacation/sick days, 401(k), generous employee pet discounts and more!The information in this position description indicates the general nature and level of work to be performed. It is not designed to be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities, and qualifications required of associates assigned to this job. Management reserves the right to revise the job description or require that other tasks be performed when the circumstances of the job change (for example, emergencies, change in personnel, workload, or technical development).We are proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. For a complete EEO statement please see our career page at vcacareers.com.