Veterinary Care Assistant / Ward Assistant – ASL Vets
Billericay & Wickford (opening June 2026)
Full-time | 40 hours per week
ASL Vets is expanding our team across our growing Billericay practice and our brand‑new Wickford location opening in June 2026. We’re looking for a caring, motivated Veterinary Care Assistant / Ward Assistant to support both sites.
This is an excellent opportunity for someone passionate about animal care who enjoys a varied role combining clinical support, patient care, and client interaction.
Previous veterinary experience is essential, and depending on experience, applicants may have the opportunity to progress onto a Veterinary Care Assistant Apprenticeship or the Registered Veterinary Nurse (RVN) Apprenticeship.
Hours & Shifts
- 40 hours per week
- Early shift: 08:30–17:00
- Late shift: 10:30–19:00
- 1 in 4 Saturdays (09:00–13:00)
The Role
You’ll be an essential part of our clinical team, helping ensure our patients receive the highest standard of care while supporting the smooth running of the practice. This is a hands‑on, fast‑paced role ideal for someone who thrives on variety and teamwork.
Your Responsibilities
Patient & Clinical Support
- Daily animal care: cleaning, feeding, handling, and general husbandry
- Assisting vets and nurses during consultations and procedures
- Providing calm, safe patient restraint
- Monitoring inpatients and supporting their daily care routines
- Maintaining clean, hygienic wards, kennels, and clinical areas
- Laboratory tasks, including sample processing, equipment cleaning, and sterilisation
- Ensuring clinical spaces are organised and ready for the day’s caseload
- Stock control and general hospital upkeep
- Supporting efficient patient flow throughout the practice
Client Care & Reception Duties
- Welcoming clients with friendly, professional customer service
- Answering phone calls and handling enquiries confidently
- Scheduling appointments and managing bookings
- Processing payments and maintaining accurate records
- Responding to emails with clear, supportive communication
- Assisting with patient admissions and coordinating client updates
Who We’re Looking For
We’re seeking someone who is enthusiastic, proactive, and eager to learn, with previous veterinary practice experience. You’ll be comfortable working across both Billericay and Wickford as part of our expanding team.
Key Qualities
- Reliable and dedicated, with a strong work ethic
- Team‑focused, thriving in a supportive, multidisciplinary environment
- Able to use initiative and work independently when needed
- Organised and efficient, able to prioritise in a busy setting
- Compassionate and client‑focused, delivering excellent service in person, by phone, and via email
What We Offer
- A welcoming, supportive team environment
- Opportunities for career development and progression
- Clear pathways into VCA or RVN apprenticeship routes (depending on experience)
- Hands‑on experience with a wide variety of patients
- A role where you can make a real difference every day
- The chance to be part of an exciting period of growth as we open our new Wickford site
If you’re passionate about animal care and excited to grow your skills within a friendly, forward‑thinking independent practice, we’d love to hear from you.
Job Types: Full-time, Permanent
Pay: £22,568.00-£26,436.80 per year
Benefits:
- Additional leave
- Company events
- Company pension
- Employee discount
Application question(s):
- Do you have previous experience working in a veterinary setting?
- Are you interested in progressing onto a Veterinary Apprenticeship as part of your career development?
Work Location: In person
