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Animal Tech Jobs in Portland, OR (NOW HIRING)

Animal Vet Assistant

Portland, OR · On-site

$16.75 - $21/hr

Veterinary technology programs * Veterinary technician programs Externs gain supervised, hands-on ... Strong patient-monitoring and animal-handling skills * Compassion for Pets and a commitment to ...

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Animal Tech information

See Portland, OR salary details

$10

$22

$29

How much do animal tech jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for animal tech in Portland, OR is $22.32, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.37 and $26.49 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an animal tech?

Animal Technicians, often called Animal Techs, are professionals responsible for the daily care and welfare of animals in research facilities, laboratories, or veterinary clinics. Their duties typically include feeding, cleaning, monitoring animal health, and maintaining proper living conditions. Animal Techs also assist scientists or veterinarians with procedures, recordkeeping, and ensuring compliance with animal welfare regulations. This role is essential in supporting research and ensuring humane treatment of animals.

What skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as an animal tech?

To thrive as an Animal Tech, you need knowledge of animal care protocols, basic biology, and often a relevant certification such as ALAT (Assistant Laboratory Animal Technician). Familiarity with laboratory information management systems, animal handling equipment, and compliance with regulatory standards like IACUC is common. Attention to detail, reliability, and strong communication skills help you manage animal welfare and collaborate effectively with research teams. These skills ensure both animal well-being and the integrity of scientific research in laboratory environments.

What are common challenges animal techs face when working with laboratory animals, and how can these be managed?

Animal Technicians often encounter challenges such as balancing strict research protocols with the welfare needs of animals and managing emotional stress related to animal care. To address these, technicians work closely with veterinarians and research staff to ensure all procedures follow ethical guidelines, and many institutions provide ongoing training and support resources. Building strong communication skills and being proactive in reporting concerns are key to maintaining both animal well-being and high research standards.

What is the difference between Animal Tech vs Veterinary Assistant?

AspectAnimal TechVeterinary Assistant
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma; certification often preferredHigh school diploma; on-the-job training
Work EnvironmentAnimal shelters, kennels, research facilitiesVeterinary clinics, animal hospitals
Employer & Industry UsageAnimal care facilities, research institutionsVeterinary practices, clinics
Common Search & Comparison IntentAnimal Tech vs Veterinary Assistant

Animal Techs and Veterinary Assistants both work closely with animals in care settings, but Animal Techs often focus on animal handling, feeding, and shelter management, while Veterinary Assistants support veterinarians with clinical tasks. The roles overlap in credentials and work environments, but their specific duties and settings differ.

How to become an animal tech?

To become an animal tech, typically you need a high school diploma or equivalent and relevant experience or training in animal care. Many employers prefer candidates with certifications such as veterinary technician or animal care certificates, and hands-on experience working with animals in shelters, clinics, or research facilities is valuable. Strong communication skills, attention to detail, and the ability to handle animals safely are also important.
Infographic showing various Animal Tech job openings in Portland, OR as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 10% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,432 per year, or $22.3 per hour.

Associate Veterinarian - Wildwood Animal Hospital (Gresham, OR)

Portland, OR • On-site


Western Veterinary Partners
Veterinary Services • 201 - 500 employees

5.8

Company rating: 5.8 out of 10

Based on 45 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

32nd of 52 rated veterinary

People enjoy working here

Respectful managers


Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 7 days ago


Job description

Associate Veterinarian - Wildwood Animal Hospital (Gresham, OR)

Wildwood Animal Hospital is seeking an Associate Veterinarian to join our collaborative and compassionate team serving the Gresham and Fairview communities. This opportunity is ideal for a veterinarian looking for excellent work-life balance, a supportive team culture, and the ability to practice high-quality medicine in a well-established hospital.

We are hiring one DVM to work 3–4 weekdays per week, with no weekend, on-call, or after-hours emergency responsibilities.

Why Join Wildwood Animal Hospital?

Since 1973, Wildwood Animal Hospital has provided exceptional veterinary care with a personal touch. Our hospital is known for its welcoming culture, collaborative team environment, and commitment to outstanding patient care.

What Makes Us Different

  • Established and respected practice serving the Portland metro area
  • Outstanding Medical Director and Hospital Manager
  • Collaborative, supportive team culture
  • Tenured support staff, including a Certified Veterinary Technician (CVT)
  • Fear Free Certified team members
  • Strong doctor-to-support staff collaboration
  • Positive, family-oriented workplace

We're looking for a veterinarian who is kind, easygoing, and enjoys working closely with both teammates and clients.

Advanced Medicine & Patient Care

We provide a wide range of veterinary services, including:

  • Wellness and preventive care
  • Advanced diagnostics
  • Dentistry
  • Soft tissue surgery
  • Laser therapy
  • Companion animal medicine

Equipment & Technology

Practice high-quality medicine with access to:

  • Digital radiography
  • Digital dental radiography
  • In-house laboratory diagnostics
  • Modern surgical equipment
  • Advanced dental services

Schedule & Work-Life Balance

Enjoy a schedule designed to support your personal and professional goals.

Position Highlights

  • 3–4 weekdays per week
  • No weekends
  • No on-call responsibilities
  • No after-hours emergencies
  • Flexible scheduling
  • Supportive team environment

Compensation & Benefits

Compensation

  • Competitive base salary
  • Quarterly production bonuses with no negative accrual
  • Signing bonus and relocation assistance

Benefits

  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance
  • HSA option available
  • Generous PTO
  • Paid parental leave
  • Annual CE allowance plus paid CE days
  • Professional development assistance
  • Paid professional membership dues
  • Paid licensing fees
  • AVMA PLIT coverage
  • Structured mentorship program
  • 401(k) with employer matching
  • Personal pet discounts

Lifestyle investment benefits, including:

  • National Park passes
  • Ski passes
  • Gym memberships
  • Charitable donations

And much more.

Qualifications

Required

  • Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) or VMD degree from an AVMA-accredited college of veterinary medicine, or equivalent certification for international graduates
  • Successful completion of the North American Veterinary Licensing Examination (NAVLE)
  • Active Oregon veterinary license in good standing, or ability to obtain licensure prior to start date

Preferred

  • Experience utilizing digital radiography, dental radiography, and in-house diagnostics
  • Experience in small animal general practice, urgent care, or companion animal medicine
  • Strong communication and client relationship skills
  • Collaborative, team-oriented approach to medicine

Life in Gresham & Fairview, Oregon

Located just outside Portland, Gresham and Fairview offer the perfect balance of outdoor recreation, vibrant city amenities, and Pacific Northwest beauty. Enjoy easy access to hiking, skiing, the Columbia River Gorge, local wineries, and everything the Portland metro area has to offer.

Apply Today

If you're looking for a veterinarian opportunity that offers flexibility, a collaborative culture, and a team that genuinely enjoys working together, we'd love to hear from you.

Apply today and discover why Wildwood Animal Hospital has been a trusted part of the Gresham and Fairview communities for more than 50 years.



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