Pacific & Santa Cruz Veterinary Specialists is locally operated as a proud member of the PetVet Care Centers Network.
Current Job Openings
Position Overview
Emergency veterinary technicians are under the direct guidance and supervision of the doctor. Incumbents of this position are required to assist the practitioners to the fullest possible extent, to help improve the quality of care given to the patients of Pacific and Santa Cruz Veterinary specialists and to aid the practitioners in achieving greater efficiency by relieving them of technical work and administrative detail.
Essential Position Functions
- Prepare for shifts by stocking drawers in exam rooms and treatment area. By setting up flush syringes, catheter kits and assuring that drugs and equipment are ready. Provide restraint of pets for examination and treatment by veterinarian. Prepare medications (both injections and dispensed medications) for both outpatients and inpatients. Log controlled substances.
- Help doctor administer anesthetics; prepare patients for surgery; monitor patients during surgery and recovery; assist in surgery; administer fluids; perform support therapy to patients in surgery and post-op;
- Properly clean, pack and autoclave all surgical materials after they are used. Keep the operating room properly stocked and prepared for surgery.
- Assist the doctor with treatment of patients; assist in medical or surgical procedures such as irrigating, cleansing, and bandaging wounds, administering and monitoring anesthesia for critical and injured animals, monitoring fluid administration and urine output, reading an ECG and blood pressure (Doppler and cardell), placing urinary and intravenous catheters, administering emergency medications and performing doctors’ orders in extreme emergency situations, and pain assessment.
- Keep accurate and timely charts of all patient progress and treatments. Enter all charges into the computer system during every shift.
- Perform clinical laboratory procedures such as blood chemistries, CBC, electrolytes, heartworm checks, skin scrapings, urinalysis, fungal cultures, draw blood for laboratory analysis. Prepare samples for shipment to laboratory and prepare laboratory forms. Perform other in-house tests such as parvo virus tests, and feline leukemia virus tests. Ensure patient records have test results recorded in them through CS.
- Take radiographs.
- Provide for the care and comfort of all patients in the ICU and kennels, including changing bedding, assessing pain and discomfort, and providing pain medications.
- Admit and discharge patients on the doctor’s orders, being especially careful to ensure that patients being discharged are well-groomed and in a medically appropriate state. Answer client questions one-on-one on various aspects of animal care up to, but not including, controversial items and/or those best left to the veterinarians. Pass on information/advice from the practitioners; explain dosage/purpose of medications; reinforce thorough discussion of the proper care and procedures that should be followed at home. Provide follow-up and updates on the progress of hospitalized patients with clients concerning certain patients; recommend additional visit and/or follow up with doctor’s recommendation if patient’s progress does not appear satisfactory.
- Assist the receptionist when necessary and assume her duties during her absence.
- Maintain an appropriate inventory of all supplies as dictated by the inventory control system. Inform inventory manager as needed about items that need to be ordered. Unpack boxes of medical supplies, check expiration dates, rotate stock and ensure that all ICU areas are appropriately stocked and clean. Make sure all products and literature are identified with labels. Keep abreast of over-the-counter products and their usage such as flea control and skin products, vitamins, and pet foods. Also understand usage and recommendations for prescription drugs.
- Maintain hospital cleanliness by performing cleaning tasks on daily, weekly and monthly lists that are located within the department.
Controls Over Work
The practitioners provide continuing or individual assignments indicating generally what is to be done, limitations, quality and quantity expected, deadlines and priority of assignments. The practitioners provide additional, specific instructions for new, difficult or unusual assignments in animal health care, including suggested work methods or advice on source materials available. The ICU Technician uses initiative in carrying out recurring assignments independently without specific instructions, but refers deviations, problems, and unfamiliar situations not covered by instructions to the practitioner for decision or help. The practitioners assure that finished work and methods used are technically accurate and in compliance with instructions or established procedures. Review of the work increases with more difficult assignments, if the technician has not previously performed similar assignments. Administrative supervision may be provided by the Practice Manager and/ or Administrator.
Advancement
Veterinary Technicians in this practice will be taught and trained to the limits of their potential. If, during training, an individual shows interest in a specific field, such as radiology or anesthesiology, continuing education in that field will be encouraged. Such encouragement may be in the form of a subsidy for taking outside courses or formal training given in the practice.
Other Significant Facts
Knowledge:
- RVT or equivalent; minimum 3-5 years of critical care, intensive care, and emergency experience
- Knowledge of the procedures used for care and monitoring of patients, for ordering medical supplies, and requesting laboratory tests.
- Knowledge of the use, care, and storage of veterinary instruments, materials, and equipment.
- Knowledge of sterilization techniques to sterilize various instruments and materials.
- Knowledge of the instruments, materials, and standardized procedures used in the full variety of treatments to make preparations and provide assistance to DVM.
Skills:
- TPR/ physical assessment
- Drug administration/ dosage calculation
- Venipuncture
- Catheter placement – both venous and urinary
- Cystocentesis – “blind” stick and ultrasound guided
- CPR
- Critical care and emergency assessment skills
- Record/ interpret ECG
- Radiology
- Anesthesiology
- Surgical assisting
- Post surgical care/ monitoring
- Perform laboratory tests; CBC, Chem, UA, viral tests, PT/PTT, etc.
- Set up and monitoring of equipment such as Doppler, Cardell, SpO2, ECG, IV fluid pumps, anesthesia machines, suction pumps, crash cart, O2 cage
- Recognition and knowledge of infectious/ zoonotic disease
- Customer service/ communication skills
Physical Effort
Work often requires lifting and carrying animals which may weigh upwards of 100 lbs. Technicians will be assisted by each other in working with larger animals. Walks or stands for extended periods of time; frequently works in bent position.
Working Conditions
Work often exposes the ICU Technician to unpleasant odors and noises. May be exposed to bites, scratches, and animal waste; may also be exposed to contagious diseases.
At PetVet Care Centers, we’re committed to a Culture of Care — for pets, for the people who love them, and for the team members who make it all possible. With more than 420 hospitals across the U.S. and a team of over 11,000 dedicated professionals, including 1700+ veterinarians, we offer a unique blend of local leadership and national support that helps our hospitals thrive.
Our model is built on partnership, collaboration, and local medical autonomy, empowering each hospital to deliver high-quality care while benefiting from shared resources and a strong professional community. Whether you’re providing care in a hospital or supporting operations behind the scenes, PetVet is a place where you can grow your career, stay connected to your purpose, and make a meaningful impact.
You care for pets. We care for you.
PetVet is an equal opportunity employer. All employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, age, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, marital status, pregnancy, religion, citizenship, national origin/ancestry, physical/mental disabilities, military status or any other basis prohibited by law. EOE, M/F/D/V
PetVet respects your privacy and is committed to protecting your personal information. Please see our privacy notice for additional information about our data practices.
Join Our Team as an Internist at Pacific and Santa Cruz Veterinary Specialists!
Pacific and Santa Cruz Veterinary Specialists is thrilled to invite an Internist to join our team of dedicated veterinary professionals. At Pacific and Santa Cruz, we foster a unique, supportive culture where collaboration, mutual respect, and enjoying our work environment are key values. We believe in making a difference for our patients and clients while genuinely enjoying the company of our colleagues.
Why Santa Cruz?
Santa Cruz, CA, is nestled between the stunning Pacific coastline and lush redwood forests, is a dynamic city known for its laid-back lifestyle, active outdoor scene, and thriving tech, education, and creative industries. Whether you're surfing in the morning, hiking scenic trails, or enjoying local art and culture, Santa Cruz offers a unique blend of relaxation and opportunity. Join us and become part of a community that values sustainability, diversity, and work-life balance!
Why You'll Love Working Here:
At Pacific and Santa Cruz Veterinary Specialists, we take the well-being of our employees seriously. We promote a balanced work-life culture and offer flexible working conditions to ensure our team members thrive both professionally and personally. We also provide a comprehensive benefits package, which includes:
- Incredible earning potential with high minimum base & a generous production plan
- Sign-on bonus available
- Generous relocation assistance provided
- Highly competitive salary, quality health insurance (medical, dental, vision, FSA/HSA options), 401K retirement plans with employer contribution, paid time off, generous continuing education allowance and additional paid time off, numerous discounts through our partners and reimbursement for membership due including maintenance of board certification
What We're Looking For:
We're looking for an experienced veterinarian to help lead a high-quality medical team, foster teamwork, and ensure efficient hospital operations. You’ll work closely with the Hospital Manager and report to the Regional Manager.
Key Responsibilities
- Patient Care: Conduct exams, diagnostics, and prescribe treatments.
- Client Communication: Educate pet owners on diagnoses and treatments; provide timely updates.
- Surgery & Diagnostics: Perform and oversee surgical procedures and diagnostic tests.
- Team Leadership: Mentor staff, maintain efficiency, and promote teamwork.
- Financial Management: Estimate treatment costs and manage resources.
- Education & Training: Participate in continuing education and train staff.
Qualifications
- Education: DVM from an accredited college.
- Licensure: State Veterinary License and DEA registration.
- Experience: 5+ years in veterinary practice with leadership experience.
For further inquiries or to submit your application, please contact Julia Stephens at jstephens@petvetcarecenters.com or apply online here.
At PetVet Care Centers, we’re committed to a Culture of Care — for pets, for the people who love them, and for the team members who make it all possible. With more than 420 hospitals across the U.S. and a team of over 11,000 dedicated professionals, including 1700+ veterinarians, we offer a unique blend of local leadership and national support that helps our hospitals thrive.
Our model is built on partnership, collaboration, and local medical autonomy, empowering each hospital to deliver high-quality care while benefiting from shared resources and a strong professional community. Whether you’re providing care in a hospital or supporting operations behind the scenes, PetVet is a place where you can grow your career, stay connected to your purpose, and make a meaningful impact.
You care for pets. We care for you.
PetVet is an equal opportunity employer. All employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, age, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, marital status, pregnancy, religion, citizenship, national origin/ancestry, physical/mental disabilities, military status or any other basis prohibited by law. EOE, M/F/D/V
PetVet respects your privacy and is committed to protecting your personal information. Please see our privacy notice for additional information about our data practices.
Join Our Team as an Emergency Veterinarian at Pacific and Santa Cruz Veterinary Specialists!
Pacific and Santa Cruz Veterinary Specialists is thrilled to invite a Full-Time Overnight Emergency Veterinarian to join our team of dedicated veterinary professionals. At Pacific and Santa Cruz, we foster a unique, supportive culture where collaboration, mutual respect, and enjoying our work environment are key values. We believe in making a difference for our patients and clients while genuinely enjoying the company of our colleagues.
Why Santa Cruz?
Santa Cruz, CA, is nestled between the stunning Pacific coastline and lush redwood forests, is a dynamic city known for its laid-back lifestyle, active outdoor scene, and thriving tech, education, and creative industries. Whether you're surfing in the morning, hiking scenic trails, or enjoying local art and culture, Santa Cruz offers a unique blend of relaxation and opportunity. Join us and become part of a community that values sustainability, diversity, and work-life balance!
Why You'll Love Working Here:
At Pacific and Santa Cruz Veterinary Specialists, we take the well-being of our employees seriously. We promote a balanced work-life culture and offer flexible working conditions to ensure our team members thrive both professionally and personally. We also provide a comprehensive benefits package, which includes:
- Incredible earning potential with high minimum base & a generous production plan
- Sign-on bonus available
- Generous relocation assistance provided
- Highly competitive salary, quality health insurance (medical, dental, vision, FSA/HSA options), 401K retirement plans with employer contribution, paid time off, generous continuing education allowance and additional paid time off, numerous discounts through our partners and reimbursement for membership due including maintenance of board certification
What We're Looking For:
We're looking for an experienced veterinarian to help lead a high-quality medical team, foster teamwork, and ensure efficient hospital operations. You’ll work closely with the Hospital Manager and report to the Regional Manager.
Key Responsibilities:
- Patient Care: Conduct comprehensive exams, record medical histories, interpret diagnostics, and perform surgeries.
- Client Communication: Explain medical findings, answer questions, and provide regular updates on patients.
- Record Keeping: Maintain thorough, legible records following AAHA standards.
- Medication & Pharmacy: Prescribe medications, review labels, and secure controlled substances.
- Team Collaboration: Support staff, ensure timely appointments, and maintain a positive work environment.
- Financials: Accurately estimate costs, communicate fees, and conserve hospital resources.
- Continued Learning: Attend and share insights from continuing education, assist with staff training.
Additional Responsibilities:
- Collaborate with medical staff to enhance hospital performance and participate in marketing efforts.
- Address client concerns, evaluate protocols, and assist with budgeting and scheduling.
- Participate in operational calls and training updates.
Qualifications:
- DVM from an accredited university with an active veterinary license.
- Minimum 5 years of veterinary experience, including staff oversight.
- Strong communication, clinical, and teamwork skills.
- Ability to lift up to 50 pounds and perform moderate physical tasks.
For further inquiries or to submit your application, please contact Julia Stephens at jstephens@petvetcarecenters.com or apply online here.
At PetVet Care Centers, we’re committed to a Culture of Care — for pets, for the people who love them, and for the team members who make it all possible. With more than 420 hospitals across the U.S. and a team of over 11,000 dedicated professionals, including 1700+ veterinarians, we offer a unique blend of local leadership and national support that helps our hospitals thrive.
Our model is built on partnership, collaboration, and local medical autonomy, empowering each hospital to deliver high-quality care while benefiting from shared resources and a strong professional community. Whether you’re providing care in a hospital or supporting operations behind the scenes, PetVet is a place where you can grow your career, stay connected to your purpose, and make a meaningful impact.
You care for pets. We care for you.
PetVet is an equal opportunity employer. All employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, age, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, marital status, pregnancy, religion, citizenship, national origin/ancestry, physical/mental disabilities, military status or any other basis prohibited by law. EOE, M/F/D/V
PetVet respects your privacy and is committed to protecting your personal information. Please see our privacy notice for additional information about our data practices.
Join Our Team as an Oncologist at Pacific and Santa Cruz Veterinary Specialists!
Pacific and Santa Cruz Veterinary Specialists is thrilled to invite a Board-Certified or Residency-Trained Oncologist to join our team of dedicated veterinary professionals. At Pacific and Santa Cruz, we foster a unique, supportive culture where collaboration, mutual respect, and enjoying our work environment are key values. We believe in making a difference for our patients and clients while genuinely enjoying the company of our colleagues.
Why Santa Cruz?
Santa Cruz, CA, is nestled between the stunning Pacific coastline and lush redwood forests, is a dynamic city known for its laid-back lifestyle, active outdoor scene, and thriving tech, education, and creative industries. Whether you're surfing in the morning, hiking scenic trails, or enjoying local art and culture, Santa Cruz offers a unique blend of relaxation and opportunity. Join us and become part of a community that values sustainability, diversity, and work-life balance!
Why You'll Love Working Here:
At Pacific and Santa Cruz Veterinary Specialists, we take the well-being of our employees seriously. We promote a balanced work-life culture and offer flexible working conditions to ensure our team members thrive both professionally and personally. We also provide a comprehensive benefits package, which includes:
- Incredible earning potential with high minimum base & a generous production plan
- Sign-on bonus available
- Generous relocation assistance provided
- Highly competitive salary, quality health insurance (medical, dental, vision, FSA/HSA options), 401K retirement plans with employer contribution, paid time off, generous continuing education allowance and additional paid time off, numerous discounts through our partners and reimbursement for membership due including maintenance of board certification
What We're Looking For:
We're looking for an experienced veterinarian to help lead a high-quality medical team, foster teamwork, and ensure efficient hospital operations. You’ll work closely with the Hospital Manager and report to the Regional Manager.
Key Responsibilities
- Patient Care: Conduct exams, diagnostics, and prescribe treatments.
- Client Communication: Educate pet owners on diagnoses and treatments; provide timely updates.
- Team Leadership: Mentor staff, maintain efficiency, and promote teamwork.
- Financial Management: Estimate treatment costs and manage resources.
- Education & Training: Participate in continuing education and train staff.
Qualifications
- Education: DVM from an accredited college.
- Licensure: State Veterinary License and DEA registration.
- Experience: 5+ years in veterinary practice with leadership experience.
For further inquiries or to submit your application, please contact Julia Stephens at jstephens@petvetcarecenters.com or apply online here.
At PetVet Care Centers, we’re committed to a Culture of Care — for pets, for the people who love them, and for the team members who make it all possible. With more than 420 hospitals across the U.S. and a team of over 11,000 dedicated professionals, including 1700+ veterinarians, we offer a unique blend of local leadership and national support that helps our hospitals thrive.
Our model is built on partnership, collaboration, and local medical autonomy, empowering each hospital to deliver high-quality care while benefiting from shared resources and a strong professional community. Whether you’re providing care in a hospital or supporting operations behind the scenes, PetVet is a place where you can grow your career, stay connected to your purpose, and make a meaningful impact.
You care for pets. We care for you.
PetVet is an equal opportunity employer. All employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, age, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, marital status, pregnancy, religion, citizenship, national origin/ancestry, physical/mental disabilities, military status or any other basis prohibited by law. EOE, M/F/D/V
PetVet respects your privacy and is committed to protecting your personal information. Please see our privacy notice for additional information about our data practices.
WARDS GRAVE ASSISTANT (Kennel)
Job Summary:
Under direction of lead technicians/lead assistants, provides for the constant cleanliness of cages, runs, and all areas of the hospital. Ensures proper feeding and patient care of all hospitalized animals assigned. Assists in all departments.
Specific Duties:
- Ensuring patients are in clean kennels with clean bedding. They have food and water when appropriate. Extra walks if needed.
- Clean and sanitize all cages and runs. Check potty yard and walk ways for feces/urine. Clean as needed.
- Recognize and inform team of any unusual condition or abnormal behavior of patients.
- Keep breakrooms clean and neat.
- Receives animals to be admitted and is responsible for their proper identification.
- Releases animals to owners as directed by DVM or tech and insures that patient is clean, properly groomed and required medications and belongings are there. Verify for any bandages and ask DVM/tech when they need to be removed. Inform client of this info.
- Assist DVM, techs, and assistants with the administration of medications and patient restraint.
- Responsible for laundry in wards, surgery, and treatment.
- Assist in overall hospital cleaning and organization. This includes checking corners and hallways for dust bunnies, taking trash/recycling out, putting away loose items. Clean window seals and Windex window of the fishbowl and recovery.
- Check lab area for leftover blood tubes. Check with tech/asst in tx/ICU if they should be tossed or kept.
- Go through the lab hold drawer and toss items depending on date. Check the list on the drawer for reference.
- Run lab work
- Restock treatment area and complete cleaning list
- Clean, sterilize, wrap instruments in treatment (Will be trained to do within time)
- Clean, sterilize, wrap and autoclave instruments in SX (Will be trained to do within time)
- Completing and folding surgeries surgical laundry (Will be trained to do within time)
- Answering the phone (Will be trained to do within time)
- Charging our client (Will be trained to do within time)
At PetVet Care Centers, we’re committed to a Culture of Care — for pets, for the people who love them, and for the team members who make it all possible. With more than 420 hospitals across the U.S. and a team of over 11,000 dedicated professionals, including 1700+ veterinarians, we offer a unique blend of local leadership and national support that helps our hospitals thrive.
Our model is built on partnership, collaboration, and local medical autonomy, empowering each hospital to deliver high-quality care while benefiting from shared resources and a strong professional community. Whether you’re providing care in a hospital or supporting operations behind the scenes, PetVet is a place where you can grow your career, stay connected to your purpose, and make a meaningful impact.
You care for pets. We care for you.
PetVet is an equal opportunity employer. All employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, age, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, marital status, pregnancy, religion, citizenship, national origin/ancestry, physical/mental disabilities, military status or any other basis prohibited by law. EOE, M/F/D/V
PetVet respects your privacy and is committed to protecting your personal information. Please see our privacy notice for additional information about our data practices.
Why Consider Our Santa Cruz Hospital?
At Pacific & Santa Cruz Veterinary Specialists, our team members all share the same passion for making and keeping animals healthy.
Our hospital truly is an excellent place to work, with a highly skilled team focused on 'best in practice' veterinary care.
We are very supportive of individuals looking to grow their veterinary careers and look forward to hearing from you.
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We invite you to explore your veterinary career options with Pacific & Santa Cruz Veterinary Specialists, where you'll be a respected member of a team that loves animals and values the contributions from every individual on the team.- Pacific & Santa Cruz Veterinary Specialists Team