Veterinary Assistant - Oncology

Chartered by the state of Georgia in 1785, the University of Georgia is the birthplace of public higher education in America and is the state's flagship university (https://www.uga.edu/). The proof is in our more than 240 years of academic and professional achievements and our continual commitment to higher education. UGA is currently ranked among the top 20 public universities in U.S. News & World Report. The University's main campus is located in Athens, approximately 65 miles northeast of Atlanta, with extended campuses in Atlanta, Griffin, Gwinnett, and Tifton. UGA employs approximately 3,100 faculty and more than 7,700 full-time staff. The University's enrollment exceeds 41,000 students including over 31,000 undergraduates and over 10,000 graduate and professional students. Academic programs reside in 19 schools and colleges, including our newly established School of Medicine.

The University of Georgia College of Veterinary Medicine, founded in 1946, is dedicated to training future veterinarians, providing services to animal owners and veterinarians, and conducting investigations to improve the health of animals as well as people. The college benefits pets and their owners, food-producing animals, and wildlife by offering the highest quality hospital and diagnostic laboratory services. Equipped with the most technologically advanced facilities located on a university campus, the college is dedicated to safeguarding public health by studying emerging infectious diseases that affect both animal and human health.

The College of Veterinary Medicine values all members of the university community, recognizing that differences in experience and culture can only lead to a more well-rounded, accepting academic environment as embodied in our Principles of Community ( http://vet.uga.edu/principles-of-community/" target="_blank"> http://vet.uga.edu/principles-of-community/>)

8:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m., Monday-Friday

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Previous animal care in an oncology unit where chemotherapy is used for treatment in a veterinary teaching hospital setting.

The veterinary assistant (VA) in the Oncology Unit plays a critical role in delivering high-quality, compassionate care to oncology patients across all stages of diagnosis and treatment. This position supports the full spectrum of oncology services, including patient care, advanced diagnostics, and administration of chemotherapeutic agents, while maintaining strict adherence to safety and handling protocols.

The VA is responsible for assisting with and performing a wide range of technical duties under direction of LVT and DVM, including the collection of laboratory samples, safe chemotherapy preparation and administration after sufficient training, and support of diagnostic procedures such as CT scans requiring heavy sedation. This role also includes maintaining a clean and organized clinical environment, ensuring proper handling and disposal of hazardous materials, and supporting the overall workflow of the oncology service.

In addition, the VA actively participates in the clinical teaching of fourth-year veterinary students and veterinary technician trainees, fostering hands-on learning, technical skill development, and adherence to best practices. The VA also plays a key role in client communication, providing clear, compassionate updates and education to pet owners throughout the course of care.

Success in this position requires strong proficiency in medical calculations, exceptional attention to detail, and the ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, high-acuity environment. Must demonstrate excellent communication skills, collaborating closely with veterinarians, team members, students, and clients to ensure continuity of care and a positive patient experience. A commitment to patient safety, technical excellence, and compassionate care is essential.

Be advised a credit check will be required for all positions with financial responsibilities. For additional information about the credit check criteria, visit the UGA Credit Background Check website.

Offers of employment are contingent upon completion of a background investigation including, a criminal background check demonstrating your eligibility for employment with the University of Georgia; confirmation of the credentials and employment history reflected in your application materials (including reference checks) as they relate to the job-based requirements of the position applied for; and, if applicable, a satisfactory credit check. You may also be subject to a pre-employment drug test for positions with high-risk responsibilities, if applicable. Please visit the UGA Background Check website.

Patient care management and treatments. Collection of blood. Assist with collection of urine by expression, cystocentesis, or catheterization. Assist with collection and preparation of tissue, cellular, or microbiological samples by aspiration, biopsy, impressions, or skin scraping. Submission of laboratory test samples. Client communication via in-person and over the phone, including collecting patient history, reviewing treatment plan, answering questions, and conveying information to doctors and students.

Animal restraint during chemotherapy treatment administration. Administration and application of treatments, drugs, fluids, medications, and immunological agents by oral, parenteral, and injectable routes after sufficient training. Monitoring and recovery of patients for diagnostic imaging and/or sample collection. Resuscitative procedures.

Entering proper charges for cases, as well as submitting and checking lab work and imaging results through the Hospital computer system. Professionally communicate with doctors, technicians, and students concerning the affected workflow, time limitations, and patient status. Medical record keeping. Reading and understanding patient records.