VETERINARY CARE ASSISTANT
Vets for Pets Colchester – Inside Pets at Home
Vets for Pets Colchester is seeking a motivated, reliable and multitasking Veterinary Care Assistant (VCA) to join our established team.
Working within a progressive, multi-disciplinary first opinion practice, you will support our clinical and client care teams in order to achieve a high level of client and patient care, playing a vital role in the smooth day-to-day running of the practice. For the right candidate, this role offers excellent professional development within the veterinary sector.
About Us
Our purpose-built practice 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 Referral Hospital in Stanway to ensure seamless continuity of care, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Across our two Colchester facilities, our wider team includes:
1. 30 Veterinary Surgeons
2. 25 Registered Veterinary Nurses
3. 4 Student Veterinary Nurses
4. 12 Veterinary Care Assistants
5. 3 Practice Managers
6. 4 Hospital Operations Coordinators
7. 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 our vets, nurses and client care teams, ensuring high standards of patient and client care throughout your working day.
Key Responsibilities
8. Client communication, appointment booking, and assisting with patient admissions
9. Supporting veterinary surgeons and nurses during consultations and procedures
10. Assisting with patient handling and restraint in a calm and compassionate manner
11. Monitoring inpatients and supporting daily care routines
12. Maintaining cleanliness and hygiene of wards, kennels, and clinical areas
13. Laboratory maintenance and equipment cleaning and sterilisation
14. Stock control and general upkeep
15. Ensuring clinical areas are organised and prepared for daily caseloads
16. Supporting efficient patient flow and hospital operations
What We’re Looking For
We are seeking a proactive individual who enjoys working in a busy environment and takes pride in maintaining high standards.
Key Attributes
17. Dedication: Conscientious and reliable with a strong work ethic
18. Teamwork: Collaborative, respectful approach within a multidisciplinary team
19. Initiative: Confident taking responsibility for tasks and working independently when required
20. Organisation: Able to prioritise workload effectively
21. 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
22. Excellent communication and client care skills
23. Eagerness to learn and develop within the veterinary environment
Desirable
24. Qualifications within the Animal Care industry
Professional Attributes
25. High standards of patient care and attention to detail
26. Proactive and organised approach to work
27. Commitment to exceptional animal welfare
Working Pattern
28. Full-time position
29. Day shifts mainly (with occasional night and twilight shifts available if you are interested)
30. Flexible shift patterns available
31. Minimum of 1 in 4 weekends
Salary & Benefits
32. Salary from £26,500 – £28,500 per annum (FTE), depending on your level of relevant client care experience
33. Flexible shift patterns (full-time or part-time considered)
34. Weekend work on a 1 in 4 rota basis
35. 28 days annual leave including bank holidays
36. Pension scheme
37. Colleague discount including 20% discount at Pets at Home
38. Full training and ongoing development support
39. The chance to be part of a growing, forward-thinking veterinary team
Why Join Us?
This is a brilliant opportunity for someone who loves working with people and animals, wants variety in their day, and is looking for a supportive team where their contribution is genuinely valued.
40. Modern, well-equipped veterinary facilities
41. Positive and supportive team culture
42. Collaborative, learning-focused environment
43. Excellent long-term career development opportunities
If this sounds like you, we’d love to hear from you.
How to Apply
Individuals interested in developing their career are encouraged to apply or arrange a confidential discussion.
All enquiries and applications are treated confidentially and without obligation.