Launch Your Career as an Animal Health Assistant at Ellsworth AFB
Are you a dedicated animal care professional looking to serve those who serve our country? The Department of the Army is currently seeking a talented Animal Health Assistant to join the Veterinary Treatment Facility at Ellsworth Air Force Base. This role offers a unique opportunity to work in a high-stakes, rewarding environment where your clinical skills will directly impact the well-being of military pets and their families.
Job Responsibilities
As an Animal Health Assistant, you will handle a variety of tasks that ensure the smooth operation of the veterinary facility. Your daily duties will include:
- Surgical Support: Assisting veterinarians during procedures, including preparing surgical packs, monitoring anesthesia, and serving as a scrubbed assistant.
- Clinical Care: Administering vaccines and medications, performing diagnostic lab tests, and conducting routine maintenance on clinical equipment.
- Client Relations: Providing guidance on pet husbandry, preventive care, and nutrition. You will be the first point of contact for many clients, explaining treatment plans and answering questions about their pets’ wellness.
- Documentation: Maintaining accurate medical records using the ccSOAP method.
Comparison: Standard vs. Preferred Qualifications
| Feature | Minimum Requirement | Preferred Qualification |
|---|---|---|
| Experience | 6 months in vet setting | 1+ years experience |
| Certification | Not required | Licensed/Certified Asst. |
| Management | Basic clinical tasks | Supply management experience |
Requirements
To be considered for this position, applicants must demonstrate at least six months of hands-on experience in a veterinary medical setting. You must possess strong knowledge of basic medical terminology, sterile techniques, and animal restraint procedures. Furthermore, all applicants are subject to a security background check to ensure suitability for working within a military facility.
Salary and Benefits
This position offers an hourly rate for an NF-03 grade level, equating to an annual salary of $40,990. In addition to base pay, employees may be eligible for health and life insurance, retirement planning options, and access to exclusive military base facilities such as fitness centers and libraries.
If you are ready to take the next step in your veterinary career while serving the military community at Ellsworth Air Force Base, we encourage you to submit your application package before the September 9, 2026 deadline. Ensure your resume is concise, highlight your clinical strengths, and prepare for a challenging and meaningful career journey.
Why This Animal Health Assistant Nf-03 Job Matters
Launch a rewarding career protecting those who serve by joining the Army's Global Veterinary Medical Practice as an Animal Health Assistant at Ellsworth AFB.
Animal Health Assistant Nf-03 Job Overview
The Public Health Command is seeking a dedicated Animal Health Assistant (NF-03) to join our team at the Ellsworth Air Force Base Veterinary Treatment Facility. In this role, you will be a vital member of our clinical team, supporting military-affiliated personnel by providing high-quality care to their privately owned animals. You will work alongside both military and civilian veterinary professionals to maintain the health and well-being of the military community's pets while adhering to strict federal and clinical standards.
Requirements for Animal Health Assistant Nf-03
- Minimum of six months of practical experience in a veterinary medical setting.
- Proven proficiency in medical terminology and sterile techniques.
- Ability to perform animal restraint for routine medical and diagnostic procedures.
- Experience in recording medical history via the ccSOAP method.
- Competency in operating in-house laboratory equipment and preparing samples for shipment.
- U.S. citizenship or status as a family member of a U.S. citizen for certain overseas locations.
- Must be able to pass a background check and suitability/fitness adjudication.
Preferred Qualifications for Animal Health Assistant Nf-03
- Possession of or ability to obtain a professional license or certification as a veterinary assistant from an accredited program (e.g., NAVTA).
- Experience in veterinary supply management, including inventory tracking, ordering, and expiration date monitoring.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive salary and federal employment stability.
- ✓Access to on-base amenities, including fitness centers and libraries.
- ✓Opportunities for professional development and specialized certification training.
- ✓Health and life insurance options (for eligible schedules).
- ✓Participation in retirement plans including 401k (for eligible schedules).
- ✓Paid personal time off and federal holidays (for eligible schedules).
💡 How to Apply Animal Health Assistant Nf-03 Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Animal Health Assistant Nf-03 Job
- Create or update your profile on USAJOBS.
- Prepare a resume that is strictly two pages or less.
- Review the full announcement on USAJOBS (O2NAFAV-26-13048287).
- Complete the required online assessment questionnaire.
- Upload all necessary supporting documents including licenses, transcripts, or military preference documentation (DD214, etc.).
- Submit your application package before the deadline on September 9, 2026.
💡 General Tips
- Keep your resume to exactly two pages to avoid immediate disqualification.
- Be specific in your resume regarding your clinical experience; assumptions about duties performed will not be made.
- Save and upload your documents as PDFs to preserve formatting.
- Ensure your email address is active and regularly check your junk folder for status updates.
- Use the provided Applicant Information Kit to better understand the NAF hiring process.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a veterinary technician license required for this position?
It is not strictly required for the basic position, but holding or obtaining a professional license or certification is considered a 'Highly Preferred' qualification.
What is the expected work schedule?
The schedule is categorized as Flexible/Intermittent, meaning hours can fluctuate between 0 and 40 per week based on mission requirements.
Are PCS costs covered?
No, payment of Permanent Change of Station (PCS) costs is not authorized for this position.
Job from U.S. Army Medical Command
The U.S. Army Medical Command operates the Global Veterinary Medical Practice (GVMP), which manages veterinary facilities across military installations worldwide. The GVMP is committed to providing top-tier healthcare to privately owned animals while ensuring that every member of our veterinary team is supported through professional development, training, and a collaborative work culture. Joining the GVMP means you are part of a massive, essential network dedicated to animal welfare and public health.