Surgery Tech Assistant – Support Healing from Behind the Scenes
Play a hands-on role in animal care by supporting the daily operations of our high-volume surgery clinic.

If you're interested in veterinary medicine, detail-oriented, and want to work directly in a high-impact animal care environment, this role is for you. As a Surgery Technician Assistant, you’ll support our medical team by prepping surgery packs, maintaining a sterile environment, assisting with animal intake and discharge, and monitoring recovery. Your contribution helps ensure the safety, comfort, and success of every surgery performed.
Who We’re Looking For
This opportunity is perfect for volunteers who:
Are interested in veterinary care or animal health
Can follow detailed instructions and strict safety protocols
Are calm, reliable, and comfortable around sedated animals
Are able to work as part of a focused, fast-paced team
Can commit to required training before entering the surgery suite
Responsibilities
Check in with the Volunteer Coordinator or designated vet staff each shift
Review the Communication Board for updates and transport information
Assist with animal check-in on surgery drop-off days (e.g., scan microchips, review vaccine needs)
Prepare and sterilize surgical packs (e.g., scalpels, sutures, drapes)
Clean and sanitize the surgery suite before and after procedures
Safely transport sedated animals to and from the surgery table and recovery area
Monitor recovering animals and ensure they are warm, comfortable, and stable
Help with clinic laundry, kennel cleaning, and dog walking as directed
Assist with animal check-outs on departure day, including re-scanning microchips and taking departure photos
Wear proper PPE and follow all hygiene and biohazard protocols
The Impact
You play a critical support role in our surgery operations. Your attention to cleanliness, animal safety, and preparation helps our veterinary team work efficiently and safely — and directly impacts the health and well-being of every animal who comes through the clinic. You’ll also gain valuable hands-on experience in a professional medical environment, making this a perfect opportunity for anyone exploring a career in vet care or shelter medicine.
What you need to get started:
Animal Health Training - Animal Health
Animal Handling - Animal Handling
Animal Behavior Training - Animal Behavior
Surgery Technician Training Surgery Technician
Volunteer duties, access and privileges are only valid for the duration of the assigned shift in which they have chosen on the on-line volunteer scheduling system. There is a 15-minute grace period before and after each shift so that the volunteer may prepare and/or end their volunteer assignments.