Job Information
Animal Rescue League of Iowa Surgical Veterinary Assistant in Des Moines, Iowa
Veterinary Technician - Surgical Shelter Focused
The Animal Rescue League of Iowa (ARL) is seeking a skilled and compassionate Veterinary Surgical Technician to support lifesaving surgical care for animals in our shelter. This role is an essential part of the ARL’s surgical medical team, ensuring animals receive safe, high-quality care before, during, and after surgical procedures. If you thrive in a fast-paced environment and are passionate about animal welfare, this is an opportunity to make a meaningful difference every day.
What Makes the ARL Different
At the ARL, our work is rooted in compassion, collaboration, and service to animals and the people who care about them. As Iowa’s largest nonprofit animal welfare organization, we provide medical care to thousands of animals each year while supporting innovative programs that strengthen the human–animal bond.
As a Veterinary Surgical Technician, you will work closely with veterinarians and a dedicated surgical and medical team to deliver high-quality surgical care in a mission-driven environment. Your work will directly support the ARL’s lifesaving efforts and ensure animals receive the compassionate treatment they deserve.
We offer competitive, market-driven compensation along with a generous holiday and paid time-off policy designed to support your well-being and work–life balance. You will be part of a collaborative team where your skills and dedication have a direct impact on the health and recovery of animals in our care.
What You’ll Do
The Veterinary Surgical Technician plays a key role in providing medical care to animals undergoing surgical procedures and treatments at the ARL. In this role, you will perform veterinary technician duties within the surgery department, including administering anesthesia and carefully monitoring animals before, during, and after surgical procedures to ensure their safety and comfort.
You will be responsible for maintaining a clean and sanitary surgical environment, preparing surgical spaces and equipment, and supporting veterinarians during procedures. Accurate documentation is also an important component of this role. You will enter surgical data for both inpatients and outpatients, maintain accurate medical records, and ensure proper tracking and documentation of controlled substances.
In addition to surgical support, you may assist with medical evaluations or procedures outside of the surgery department when requested. You will also contribute to a positive experience for clients and visitors by communicating professionally and courteously while helping promote the ARL’s programs, services, and mission.
This role also plays an important part in maintaining a healthy shelter environment. You will participate in stress and disease reduction efforts through purposeful and compassionate animal handling, follow established safety guidelines, and model safe work practices. Adherence to ARL policies and procedures is essential in supporting consistent, high-quality care across the organization.
What You Bring
Qualified candidates must possess a high school diploma or GED. Active Veterinary Technician Certification or equivalent work experience is preferred. Candidates with three or more years of experience in animal care and handling are strongly encouraged to apply.
The ideal candidate is able to function effectively in a fast-paced and sometimes stressful environment while maintaining strong attention to detail. Excellent customer service, interpersonal, and conflict resolution skills are essential, along with the ability to apply sound judgment and problem-solving skills in daily operations.
Basic mathematical skills and working knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite are required.
Physical Requirements and Working Conditions
This position requires the ability to frequently lift up to 50 pounds and work in an environment that includes exposure to animals, medical equipment, and moderate noise levels.
If you are passionate about providing high-quality surgical care and want to be part of a mission-driven team dedicated to helping animals in need, we encourage you to apply.
Employment in this position is at-will, meaning that either the employee or the ARL may terminate the employment relationship at any time.
In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act and/or applicable state regulations, the Animal Rescue League will provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities and encourages prospective employees and incumbents to discuss potential accommodations.
Monday through Friday