Launch Your Career as an Animal Health Assistant with the U.S. Army
Are you a veterinary professional looking to pivot into a mission-driven environment? The U.S. Army Medical Command is currently seeking a motivated Animal Health Assistant (NF-03) to join the 29 Palms Veterinary Treatment Facility (VTF) team. This position offers a unique blend of clinical veterinary work and service to the military community.
Job Responsibilities
As an Animal Health Assistant, you will act as a vital link between the veterinary team and the pet-owning public. Your daily duties will include:
- Clinical Support: Assisting veterinarians during surgical procedures, including patient monitoring and anesthesia administration.
- Diagnostic Care: Performing routine laboratory tests, maintaining clinic equipment, and managing radiological procedures.
- Client Relations: Providing wellness counseling, explaining treatment plans, and assisting with husbandry education.
- Pharmacy & Inventory: Managing prescription medications and ensuring the clinic is stocked with necessary medical supplies.
Role Comparison
| Feature | Animal Health Assistant (NF-03) |
|---|---|
| Setting | Military Veterinary Treatment Facility |
| Location | Twentynine Palms, California |
| Pay Scale | $45,830 - $48,126 (Annualized) |
| Focus | Clinical Support & Client Service |
Requirements
To qualify for this position, applicants must possess at least six months of practical experience in a veterinary medical setting. Candidates should demonstrate proficiency in sterile techniques, patient restraint, and the ccSOAP documentation method. A critical requirement for federal employment in this category is that your resume must be two pages or less.
Salary and Benefits
This position offers a competitive salary range of $45,830 to $48,126 annually, based on a 40-hour work week. Employees gain access to on-base facilities and the opportunity to build a career within the Department of Defense. Regular full-time or part-time staff may be eligible for comprehensive health benefits, retirement plans, and paid leave.
Serving as an Animal Health Assistant at 29 Palms is more than just a job; it is a commitment to the health and happiness of the military community. If you have the required clinical experience and a passion for veterinary medicine, we encourage you to apply before the November 3, 2026, deadline.
Why This Animal Health Assistant Nf-03 Job Matters
Launch a rewarding career in animal care where your work directly supports military families and their beloved pets at the 29 Palms Veterinary Treatment Facility.
Animal Health Assistant Nf-03 Job Overview
The U.S. Army Medical Command is seeking a dedicated Animal Health Assistant (NF-03) to join the Public Health Command team in Twentynine Palms, California. This role is essential to our Global Veterinary Medical Practice, providing critical medical support for privately owned animals within the military community. You will work alongside professional veterinary staff to ensure high-quality patient care, client education, and efficient facility operations.
Requirements for Animal Health Assistant Nf-03
- Minimum of six months of documented experience in a veterinary medical setting.
- Proficiency in basic medical terminology and sterile techniques.
- Ability to perform patient restraint and routine medical/diagnostic procedures, including radiography.
- Competence in recording medical histories and treatment plans using ccSOAP methodology.
- Capacity to interpret and explain treatment plans and product information to clients.
- Skill in utilizing in-house laboratory equipment for diagnostic testing and routine maintenance.
- Ability to prepare samples for shipment to outside reference laboratories.
- Resume must be strictly limited to two pages or less.
Preferred Qualifications for Animal Health Assistant Nf-03
- Possession of or ability to obtain/reactivate a professional registration, license, or certification as a veterinary assistant (or higher) via an accredited program.
- Demonstrated experience in supply management, including inventory control, ordering, and monitoring expiration dates.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Access to on-base amenities including fitness centers and libraries.
- ✓Opportunities for professional development through training and certification programs.
- ✓Potential eligibility for health and life insurance, 401(k) participation, and paid time off (based on employment status).
- ✓Fulfilling work environment supporting DoD personnel and their families.
💡 How to Apply Animal Health Assistant Nf-03 Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Animal Health Assistant Nf-03 Job
- Create or log into your USAJOBS account.
- Prepare a resume that is two pages or less.
- Search for announcement O2NAFAV-26-13105364.
- Complete the online questionnaire and attach all required documentation.
- Submit your application package by 11:59 PM ET on November 3, 2026.
💡 General Tips
- Keep your resume strictly under two pages; longer resumes may be disqualified.
- Ensure your resume provides specific examples of your clinical experience rather than general descriptions.
- Save and upload your documents as PDFs to ensure proper formatting.
- Check your email regularly for status updates from the hiring team.
- Verify that your contact information in USAJOBS is current.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the work schedule for this position?
This role is classified as Flexible/Intermittent. Hours may vary between 0 and 40 per week based on mission requirements.
Can I submit a paper application?
Yes, if you are unable to apply online, you may contact the NAF Human Resources office to request a manual application package.
Job from U.S. Army Medical Command
The U.S. Army's Global Veterinary Medical Practice (GVMP) operates veterinary treatment facilities across military installations worldwide. Our mission extends beyond animal care; it is an essential public health initiative that supports the well-being of Department of Defense personnel, military members, and their families. By joining our team, you become part of a multi-disciplinary network dedicated to high-quality healthcare and exceptional customer service.