Kennel Assistant

Who We Are:

The Hospital for Veterinary Surgery (HVS) is Manhattan’s first and only surgery-exclusive veterinary hospital. Spanning 10,000 square feet across two floors, our purpose-built facility features four advanced operating suites, two dedicated radiology suites, a 128-slice CT scanner, and an on-site overnight veterinarian to ensure seamless, continuous care. Founded by board-certified surgeons Dr. Matthew Raske and Dr. Andrew Kyles, experts in orthopedic, soft tissue, oncologic, and minimally invasive surgery, HVS blends elite clinical expertise with a thoughtfully designed space and cutting-edge technology, all delivered with compassion and collaboration.

At HVS, we believe exceptional care starts with a thriving team. We invest deeply in your growth and well-being through unlimited continuing education, mentorship, state-of-the-art equipment, and a culture that supports work-life balance. We provide not just advanced surgical care but a workplace where veterinary professionals can flourish in the heart of New York City.

HVS is seeking a dedicated, motivated Kennel Assistant. The Kennel Assistant helps maintain a clean, organized, and safe environment at the Hospital for Veterinary Surgery. This is an entry-level role focused on maintaining a clean hospital environment and supporting the overall function of the surgical center. Responsibilities include cleaning treatment areas, kennels, recovery spaces, and communal areas, taking out trash, doing laundry, and keeping supplies stocked. While this role does not involve direct animal care, the Kennel Assistant must be comfortable working around dogs and cats, including those recovering from surgery, and must be okay with exposure to blood, urine, feces, and other bodily fluids.

Key Responsibilities

• Keep all areas of the hospital clean, including the lobby, exam rooms, treatment areas, recovery, and surgical spaces


• Maintain cleanliness in communal areas such as the break room and bathrooms


• Clean and disinfect kennels, floors, counters, and equipment


• Take out trash, recycling, and biohazard waste following proper safety procedures


• Wash, dry, and fold laundry such as towels and blankets


• Restock cleaning and paper supplies, and help organize storage areas


• Sweep, mop, vacuum, and sanitize as needed throughout the day


• Help keep walkways and outside areas free of debris


• Make sure client-facing areas are clean and free of boxes, clutter, or other items


• May assist with holding animals under supervision, depending on experience


• May assist with surgical instrument cleaning or sterilization if time allows

What We Offer:

• The pay range for this role is: $17-$19/hr. This range represents our target hiring range for this role. The proposed pay will be dependent on the candidate's skills, experience, and competencies


• Schedule: Monday-Friday, 11AM to 8PM


• Comprehensive medical, dental and vision coverage


• FSA/HSA


• Generous paid time off, including three weeks PTO to start


• 401(k) with a company match


• Paid Parental Leave


• Wellness support/EAP


• Elective benefits through MetLife


• Employee pet discounts


• Discounted pet insurance 

What We Require:

• Comfortable working around animals and with sights and smells related to surgery and recovery


• Able to stand, bend, lift up to 40 pounds, and stay active during the shift


• Reliable, detail-oriented, and able to follow safety and cleaning protocols


• No prior experience required, but previous cleaning or kennel experience is a plus


• Must be at least 18 years old

Work Environment

This is a physically active position in a veterinary hospital. This role requires working around pets in medical settings and always maintaining a clean and safe environment.

We provide equal opportunities for everyone who applies to and works for our company, regardless of age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, race, color, national origin, disability, and all other law-protected considerations that make you, You.