Veterinary Assistant
Location: Nanaimo, BC
Employment Type: Full-time
Job level: Entry-level
Compensation: $18.25 per hour
We are a dedicated veterinary team seeking a compassionate and dependable Veterinary Assistant. This role is ideal for someone who loves animals, works hard, and wants hands-on clinical experience in the veterinary industry. This position can sometimes be emotionally demanding and physically active. The right candidate will understand that high-quality animal care sometimes includes difficult moments and challenging tasks.
Key Responsibilities
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Assisting veterinarians and technicians during exams and procedures
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Safely restraining animals of all sizes
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Cleaning and disinfecting exam rooms, kennels, and equipment
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Administering basic care such as nail trims, bathing, and weight checks
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Handling biological materials (blood, urine, feces)
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Supporting end-of-life care; supporting processes for euthanasia procedures
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Maintaining a clean, calm, and supportive environment for pets and their families
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Back up for reception when required
Qualifications
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Strong emotional resilience
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Ability to handle blood, bodily fluids, and medical procedures
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Willingness to be present for and assist with euthanasia
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Ability to lift 40+ lbs
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Reliable, punctual, and team-oriented
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Genuine love and respect for animals
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Previous experience is a plus, but training will be provided
What We Can Offer You
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RRSP Employer 5 % Match Program – saving for your future just got easier!
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VCA Canada Student Loan RRSP Program – Ask us more!
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Medical Library; 2000+ journals, 600+ textbooks, research, and more at your fingertips!
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Flexible schedules!
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Competitive wages and benefits!
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Opportunity to apply for a Veterinary Technician/Technologist scholarship (annual process)
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Annual uniform allowance
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Exceptional career development: there is room to grow here!
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Referral Bonus Rewards
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Opportunities to give back to your community through VCA initiatives
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Generous personal pet care discounts
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And extra perks like shopping discounts and cool wellness apps!
Our Story
VCA Canada is a network of veterinary hospitals, with our head office in Calgary, Alberta, committed to positively impacting pets, people, and local communities for nearly 45 years. We have compassion for the neighbourhoods we serve and every pet within them, not just those we see in our hospitals. Every VCA Canada hospital location takes pride in its legacy of excellence, earning the trust of pet owners by delivering the highest quality of medicine to keep pets happy and healthy.
In 2017, VCA Canada became part of the Mars Veterinary Health family of brands, solidifying an even stronger commitment to ensuring the strength and stability of the veterinary profession and our commitment to pet parents nationwide. VCA Canada is also passionate about providing an industry-leading Associate experience to over 4,000 Canadians employed across the country. In 2026, for the third year in a row, we were named one of Alberta's Top Employers, which recognizes organizations whose head offices are located within the province and lead their industries in offering exceptional places to work. Additionally, we were selected as one of Canada's Top Employers for Young People 2026, which recognizes employers across Canada that lead their industries in offering exceptional places to work and programs for young people starting their careers.
If you are a current associate, you will need to apply through our internal career site. Please log into Workday and click on the Jobs Hub app or search for Browse Jobs.
