Veterinary Attendant

Summer Student

About Us

The Edmonton Humane Society (EHS) has been serving Edmonton and area since 1907, dedicated to helping people and pets thrive, together. As a leader in animal welfare, we go beyond sheltering homeless animals — shaping a community that values the human-animal bond through advocacy, education and accessible support services.

Our mission is to enrich the lives of people and companion animals through sheltering animals in need, supporting pet guardians, engaging with our community and inspiring compassion. Guided by our values of compassion, trust, improvement, results, inclusivity and teamwork, we work toward a more humane and connected community for all.

The Role

The Summer Student Veterinary Attendant will play a key role in supporting the medical department through both administrative and hands-on animal care duties. This position assists with animal handling, surgery support, and general medical tasks, contributing to the wellbeing of shelter animals and ensuring a high standard of care and organization within the medical team.

Key Roles & Responsibilities

General Shelter Tasks (Supporting VMAs, RVTs, and Veterinarians)  

•    Assist with treatment-related tasks such as animal restraint, weight checks, grooming, and socialization

•    Support incoming exams and help transport animals to kennels

•    Clean and tidy medical areas in the shelter

•    Follow all EHS and OHS protocols, including PPE and disease management procedures

Surgery Assistance

•    Support pre-surgery animal handling and transport to/from surgery and recovery

•    Clean and maintain surgical areas, kennels, and equipment

•    Wash and prepare surgical laundry and packs (gowns, drapes, instruments)

•    Follow strict surgical and safety protocols

Mobile Unit Assistance (as required and season permitting):

•    Assist with off-site surgeries and mobile unit tasks

•    Travel within Edmonton  and surrounding area to provide support with animal restraint, cleaning, and VMA-related duties

Education & Requirements

•    High School Diploma or equivalent required

•    Current enrollment in, in or pursuing post-secondary education in an animal health-related field

•    Experience with animals in medical or shelter environments preferred

•    Familiarity with common animal behaviors and handling techniques

•    Experience using computer software systems

Skills & Abilities

An ideal candidate has strong knowledge of companion animal care and demonstrates a genuine interest in animal welfare. They possess excellent verbal and written communication skills, are highly organized and detail-oriented, and have strong interpersonal abilities to work effectively both independently and as part of a team. They are flexible, able to manage multiple tasks and shifting priorities, remain calm under pressure, and consistently display a strong work ethic and reliability.

what we offer

Joining EHS means becoming part of a compassionate and dedicated team working toward a more humane community. You’ll be surrounded by passionate professionals who care deeply about what they do — for animals, for people, and for each other.

At EHS, we offer more than just a job — we offer meaningful work, growth opportunities and a supportive environment where you can thrive.

Why You’ll Love Working Here

•    Meaningful work that makes a tangible impact in our community

•    Supportive leadership and a collaborative, inclusive culture

•    Opportunities for growth, learning, and professional development

•    A strong focus on employee well-being and work–life balance

Compensation & Benefits

The Summer Student, Animal Care Worker role is classified in Pay Band 2, with a pay range of $17.84- $23.18 per hour, commensurate with the successful candidate’s education and experience.

Hours of Work

•    Standard hours: 35 hours per week; however, this position is expected to work the hours necessary to fulfill departmental responsibilities.

•    Flexibility may be required for evenings, weekends or special events.

OUR COMMITMENT TO INCLUSION & SAFETY

The Edmonton Humane Society (EHS) was founded on the principles of creating positive change in our community. Our hiring practices embrace compassion, support for our staff and volunteers, and our role as a community leader.

We believe that a culture of belonging — where people’s unique backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives are valued and respected — strengthens our ability to serve both animals and people. Our commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion (DEI), and reconciliation helps us support pet guardians facing access-to-care challenges, strengthen the human-animal bond, and build a more compassionate, engaged, and inclusive society.

EHS is also a COR-certified employer, recognized by Alberta’s Certificate of Recognition program for maintaining the highest standards of health and safety for our staff, volunteers and the animals in our care.