At a Glance
- Tasks: Provide exceptional care for animals and support veterinary teams during night shifts.
- Company: Join a fast-growing referral hospital that values patient care and team wellbeing.
- Benefits: Flexible hours, professional development, and a supportive work environment.
- Other info: Be part of an inclusive culture with opportunities for growth and learning.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in animal care while working with passionate professionals.
- Qualifications: Experience in veterinary or animal care, strong communication, and teamwork skills.
The predicted salary is between 24000 - 30000 £ per year.
Location: Veterinary Specialists Scotland (VSS), Livingston, just outside Edinburgh.
Job Type: Permanent, full-time.
Hours: 27 hours per week – 4 shifts on, 8 off – 8pm to 8am.
About the role
The role of Patient Care Assistant / Veterinary Care Assistant is vital in delivering outstanding patient care and an exceptional client experience. Working closely with our veterinary surgeons and registered veterinary nurses, you will support the out‑of‑hours care of patients under appropriate clinical delegation.
Key responsibilities
- Deliver high‑quality patient care within the remit of the PCA role and under appropriate clinical delegation.
- Support the nursing and veterinary teams with the care of hospitalised patients.
- Maintain accurate clinical records, including hospitalisation forms and patient notes.
- Ensure patient and clinical areas are maintained to a high standard, following strict infection control and health and safety protocols.
- Handle animals confidently, safely, and compassionately.
- Work collaboratively with clinical and client care teams to provide an efficient, professional, and caring service.
- Provide a courteous, empathetic, and helpful experience for clients at all times.
- Support quality improvement initiatives, audits, and incident reporting processes.
- Contribute to stock management, correct charging of services and consumables, and reducing unnecessary waste.
- Take part in training and continued professional development opportunities.
What we’re looking for
- Previous experience in a veterinary care or animal care role.
- A strong background in animal handling.
- A genuine passion for delivering excellent patient care.
- A caring, empathetic, and professional approach.
- Excellent communication and teamwork skills.
- The ability to work reliably, adaptably, and positively in a busy clinical environment.
- A commitment to maintaining high clinical standards and supporting continuous improvement.
- A willingness to work flexibly, including weekends and bank holidays.
Why join VSS and Linnaeus?
You will be part of a talented, collaborative team in a fast‑growing referral hospital where patient care and colleague wellbeing are genuinely valued. As part of the Linnaeus group, you will benefit from a wide network of veterinary professionals and opportunities for learning, innovation, and career development. We are committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse culture that supports all team members.
How to apply
If you are an experienced Veterinary Care Assistant looking to join a progressive and supportive referral hospital, please contact our Talent Acquisition team at careers@linnaeusgroup.co.uk.
Night Veterinary Care Assistant in Livingston employer: VCA Inc.
At Veterinary Specialists Scotland (VSS), located in the vibrant area of Livingston near Edinburgh, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer that prioritises both patient care and employee wellbeing. Our collaborative work culture fosters professional growth through continuous training and development opportunities, while our commitment to inclusivity ensures that every team member feels valued and supported. Join us to be part of a dedicated team where your passion for animal care can thrive in a rewarding environment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Night Veterinary Care Assistant in Livingston
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the veterinary field, attend local events, and join online forums. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by practising common questions and scenarios specific to veterinary care. Show off your animal handling skills and your passion for patient care – it’s all about making a great impression!
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t just apply anywhere; focus on places that align with your values and career goals. Check out our website for openings at Veterinary Specialists Scotland and tailor your approach to fit their culture and mission.
✨Tip Number 4
Follow up after interviews! A quick thank-you email can go a long way in showing your enthusiasm for the role. It keeps you fresh in their minds and demonstrates your professionalism.
We think you need these skills to ace Night Veterinary Care Assistant in Livingston
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:Let us see your genuine love for animal care in your application. Share any experiences that highlight your commitment to delivering excellent patient care and how you’ve handled animals with compassion.
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Night Veterinary Care Assistant role. Highlight relevant experience, especially in animal handling and teamwork, so we can see how you fit into our collaborative environment.
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your cover letter, keep it clear and to the point. We appreciate straightforward communication, so make sure to express why you want to join our team and what you can bring to the table.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother process. It helps us keep track of applications and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates from us!
How to prepare for a job interview at VCA Inc.
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your veterinary knowledge and animal handling skills. Familiarise yourself with common procedures and protocols in a veterinary setting, especially those related to patient care. This will show that you're not just passionate but also knowledgeable about the role.
✨Show Your Compassion
During the interview, be ready to share examples of how you've provided excellent patient care in the past. Highlight any experiences where you demonstrated empathy and compassion towards animals and their owners. This is crucial for a role that revolves around caring for patients.
✨Team Player Vibes
Since you'll be working closely with veterinary surgeons and nurses, emphasise your teamwork skills. Share stories that showcase your ability to collaborate effectively in a busy environment. This will help them see you as someone who can fit right into their team.
✨Ask Smart Questions
Prepare some thoughtful questions about the role and the team dynamics at Veterinary Specialists Scotland. This shows your genuine interest in the position and helps you understand if it's the right fit for you. Plus, it gives you a chance to engage with the interviewers on a deeper level.
