Description

Cerro Alto Veterinary Specialty and Emergency Hospital is a privately owned specialty and emergency practice committed to both healing and education. Our team of board-certified specialists, experienced emergency doctors, registered veterinary technicians, assistants, and client service professionals works collaboratively to provide exceptional medical care while fostering a supportive, respectful, and positive workplace.

As a brand-new, state-of-the-art facility, we are equipped with advanced diagnostic and treatment technologies, including a 128-slice CT scanner, fluoroscopy, digital radiology, ultrasound, arthroscopy, laparoscopy, and endoscopy. Our hospital includes full-time boarded surgery and radiology services, along with a 24/7 emergency department supported by experienced emergency veterinarians.

We are deeply committed to mentorship, continuing education, and professional growth. At Cerro Alto Veterinary Specialty and Emergency Hospital, we strive to balance clinical excellence with sustainability, teamwork, and long-term career fulfillment.

Position Overview

The Kennel Attendant (Kennel Assistant) supports the daily operations of the hospital by providing direct care to hospitalized and boarding patients and maintaining a clean, safe, and organized environment throughout the facility.

This position plays an essential role in patient care, sanitation, and infection control, ensuring that all animal care areas, treatment spaces, and public areas meet Cerro Alto Veterinary Specialty and Emergency Hospital standards. Kennel Attendants work closely with veterinary technicians, veterinary assistants, and doctors to support efficient hospital function and patient comfort.

This is a full-time entry-level position and an excellent opportunity for individuals interested in gaining hands-on experience in veterinary medicine, emergency care, or animal health.

This position is being recruited to meet current business needs for swing coverage Sunday-Wednesday as well as overnight coverage across all days of the week.

Requirements

Animal Care

Provide daily care for hospitalized and boarding animals, including feeding, walking, cleaning, and monitoring comfort and wellbeing
Observe patients for changes in appetite, behavior, mobility, or elimination and promptly report findings to supervising staff
Assist with safe handling, restraint, and transport of animals within the hospital as directed by medical staff
Maintain patient housing areas in accordance with hospital infection control and biosecurity protocols

Hospital Cleanliness & Environmental Care

Clean and disinfect kennels, runs, cages, and animal housing areas routinely and as needed
Maintain cleanliness of all hospital spaces, including: Treatment and ICU areas, Exam rooms, Lobby and client waiting areas, Employee break rooms and storage areas, Employee and client restrooms
Perform routine facility tasks, including: Taking out trash and regulated medical/biohazard waste, Sweeping and mopping floors, Wiping down counters, exam tables, and common surfaces, Washing dishes and performing laundry duties, Restocking cleaning and patient care supplies
Ensure all cleaning agents and disinfectants are used safely and in accordance with hospital infection control policies and OSHA guidelines

Qualifications & Skills

This is an entry-level role; prior veterinary, kennel, shelter, or animal care experience is not required but is a plus
Genuine interest in animal care and working in a veterinary hospital environment
Ability to follow instructions, adhere to protocols, and work collaboratively as part of a team
Strong work ethic, reliability, and attention to detail
Ability to safely perform the essential physical functions of the role, including standing for extended periods, lifting and transporting patients, performing repetitive cleaning tasks, and working in a physically demanding environment

Scheduling & Availability Requirements

This position is full-time and based in a 24/7 emergency and specialty hospital. Team members must be able to work assigned schedules that may include day, swing, overnight, weekend, and holiday shifts based on hospital needs.

This position is being hired to meet the following operational needs:

Swing shifts Sunday-Wednesday
Overnight shift coverage seven days per week

Due to patient care, sanitation, and staffing requirements during these periods, the ability to reliably work one or more of the shifts listed above is considered an essential function of this position.

Requests for schedule modifications will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis and may be considered where reasonable and consistent with business operations and applicable law.

What We Offer

Competitive hourly compensation based on experience and skill level
Comprehensive benefits package for eligible employees, including health, dental, and vision insurance
401(k) with employer match
Paid sick time and vacation time for eligible employees
A collaborative, respectful workplace culture
Exposure to emergency and specialty veterinary medicine in a modern facility
The opportunity to live and work in San Luis Obispo, with access to outdoor recreation, wineries, and a vibrant community