Veterinary Care Assistant (Day) – Referral Hospital
Vets for Pets Colchester Referral Hospital is seeking a motivated and reliable Veterinary Care Assistant (VCA) to join our established referral clinical team in a day position. This role offers excellent professional development within the veterinary sector, including exposure that supports progression into veterinary nursing.
Working within a progressive, multi-disciplinary referral hospital, you will support advanced patient care and contribute to the smooth day-to-day running of a busy hospital environment.
About Us:
Our purpose-built Referral Hospital 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 first-opinion practice to ensure seamless continuity of care.
Across our Colchester sites, our wider team includes:
1. 22 Veterinary Surgeons
2. 18 Registered Veterinary Nurses
3. 5 Student Veterinary Nurses
4. 10 Veterinary Care Assistants
5. 3 Practice Managers
6. 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 the veterinary and nursing teams, ensuring high standards of patient care and hospital organisation throughout the working day.
Key Responsibilities:
7. Client communication, appointment booking, and assisting with patient admissions
8. Supporting veterinary surgeons and nurses during consultations and procedures
9. Assisting with patient handling and restraint in a calm and compassionate manner
10. Monitoring inpatients and supporting daily care routines
11. Maintaining cleanliness and hygiene of wards, kennels, and clinical areas
12. Laboratory maintenance and equipment cleaning and sterilisation
13. Stock control and general hospital upkeep
14. Ensuring clinical areas are organised and prepared for daily caseloads
15. Supporting efficient patient flow and hospital operations
What We’re Looking For:
We are seeking a proactive individual who enjoys working in a busy referral environment and takes pride in maintaining high standards.
Key Attributes:
16. Dedication: Conscientious and reliable with a strong work ethic
17. Teamwork: Collaborative approach within a multidisciplinary team
18. Initiative: Confident taking responsibility for tasks and working independently when required
19. Organisation: Able to prioritise workload effectively
20. 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:
21. Excellent communication and client care skills
22. Eagerness to learn and develop within the veterinary environment
Desirable:
23. Qualifications within the Animal Care industry
Professional Attributes:
24. High standards of patient care and attention to detail
25. Proactive and organised approach to work
26. Commitment to exceptional animal welfare
Working Pattern
27. FT Applicants (40hours) or Weekend positions available
28. Day shifts only
29. Flexible shift patterns available
Salary & Benefits:
Salary: From £26,500 per annum (FTE), depending on experience
Salary review expected after 12 months’ service
Benefits include:
30. Competitive salary with structured performance reviews
31. Pension scheme
32. Life assurance (4x annual salary)
33. 22 days annual leave including bank holidays
34. Increasing to 26 days after 24 months’ service (based on 10-hour shifts)
35. 20% colleague discount at Pets at Home, The Groom Room, and Vets4Pets
36. Access to additional corporate benefits and wellbeing initiatives
Why Join Our Referral Hospital?
37. Exposure to a diverse and complex referral caseload
38. Modern, well-equipped referral facilities
39. Supportive clinical and nursing teams
40. Collaborative, learning-focused hospital culture
41. Excellent long-term career development opportunities
How to Apply:
Individuals interested in developing their career within a referral hospital environment are encouraged to apply or arrange a confidential discussion.
42. Email:
43. Application: Online submission available
All enquiries and applications are treated confidentially and without obligation.
Location: CO3 8PB
We take our inspiration from pets in embracing people from all walks of life, and we value, respect and celebrate difference. We encourage our people to be their best selves so that we can create a better world for Pets, our Planet, and People. Our ambition is to reflect the diversity of the communities we operate in, and we are intentional in addressing and removing barriers to create opportunities for the exceptional talent and potential in our communities. Even if your skills and experience don’t perfectly align, if you think you can make a unique contribution through your values and behaviours, we want to hear from you!