J ob Title: Veterinary Care Assistant (VCA) Location: Swayne & Partners, Newmarket Branch (part of Kin Vet Community) Job Type: Full-time – 40 hours per week Salary: £12.21 per hour Clinical Directors: Rachel Phillips & Emily Rose Head Nurse: Kelly Palfrey About Us: At Swayne & Partners, being part of Kin Vet Community offers numerous advantages. Kin Vet Community, established in June 2023, is a vet-led collective of 19 veterinary practices across Essex, Suffolk, Hertfordshire, Kent, and Southwest London. We provide compassionate, high-quality care for pets and their owners, with a strong focus on collaboration and support for our clinical teams. Swayne & Partners is a well-established group of three small animal veterinary practices, supported by a larger hospital in Bury St Edmunds. Together, our branches offer exceptional care with day surgeries, in-house out-of-hours services, and emergency support. We’re currently looking for a qualified Veterinary Care Assistant (VCA) to join our friendly team at the Newmarket branch, working closely with our nursing team to support day-to-day clinical operations. About the Role: As a qualified Veterinary Care Assistant, you'll play a vital role in the smooth running of our practice. You’ll support our veterinary surgeons and nurses in providing the highest standard of patient care, maintain clinical areas to a high standard, and help ensure a welcoming experience for clients and their pets. Key Responsibilities: Clinical Support Safely handle and restrain animals during exams, treatments, grooming, or procedures Assist vets and nurses during consultations, including equipment preparation and note-taking Clean and sterilise instruments and clinical areas Support with theatre preparation and patient recovery monitoring Monitor patients under supervision and maintain accurate clinical records Feed, hydrate, and exercise inpatients as instructed Maintain cleanliness of kennels and recovery areas Observe and report on patient welfare and comfort Hygiene & Infection Control Follow strict infection control protocols Clean and disinfect kennels, theatres, consult rooms, and equipment Safely manage and dispose of clinical waste and sharps Reception & Client Interaction Greet clients and check in patients professionally Book appointments and surgeries accurately Answer phone calls and assist with general client queries Process payments and update client records What We’re Looking For: Qualified Veterinary Care Assistant (essential) Previous experience in a veterinary practice or similar setting A genuine passion for animal care and welfare Confident and calm when handling animals Good communication and teamwork skills A proactive, can-do attitude with a willingness to support where needed What We Offer: 25 days annual leave (increasing with service) bank holidays Private Healthcare with Vitality Occupational Health services Free eye test vouchers & contribution towards VDU glasses Enhanced Maternity/Paternity leave Staff discount scheme (up to 5 registered pets) How to Apply: If you’re a qualified VCA looking for a rewarding and varied role in a supportive team environment, we’d love to hear from you!