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Assistant Vet Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Administrative Assistant, Vet Clinic

Houston, TX · On-site

$17.25 - $23.25/hr

This Administrative Assistant position provides administrative support across a range of fiscal, operational, and compliance-focused functions. Essential functions include medical data entry ...

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Assistant Vet information

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How much do assistant vet jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for assistant vet in the United States is $17.24, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.14 and $18.99 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a vet assistant actually do?

A vet assistant supports veterinarians by handling tasks such as restraining animals during exams, preparing examination rooms, cleaning and sterilizing equipment, and assisting with basic medical procedures. They also often manage client communication, maintain records, and ensure the cleanliness and organization of the clinic environment.

Can I be a vet assistant with no experience?

Yes, many veterinary assistant positions are entry-level and do not require prior experience. Employers often provide on-the-job training and may look for basic skills such as animal handling and communication. Certification programs can also enhance job prospects but are not always mandatory for starting out.

What jobs can you get as a vet assistant?

A vet assistant can work in veterinary clinics, animal hospitals, shelters, or zoos, performing tasks such as animal restraint, cleaning, feeding, and assisting with examinations and treatments. They often support veterinarians and veterinary technicians and may need basic knowledge of animal care and handling, with some roles requiring certification or on-the-job training.

What is the difference between Assistant Vet vs Veterinary Technician?

AspectAssistant VetVeterinary Technician
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; on-the-job trainingAssociate degree in veterinary technology; certification often required
Work EnvironmentAssist veterinarians in clinics, animal hospitals, sheltersWork alongside veterinarians, perform technical tasks, assist in surgeries
Employer & Industry UsageCommonly employed in veterinary clinics, animal sheltersStandard role in veterinary practices, animal hospitals, research facilities

Veterinary technicians typically have formal education and certification, performing more technical tasks than assistant vets, who usually receive on-the-job training. Both roles support veterinarians in animal care, but veterinary technicians have a broader scope of practice and technical responsibilities.

What are assistant vets?

Assistant vets, also known as veterinary assistants, are professionals who support veterinarians and veterinary technicians in animal care settings such as clinics, hospitals, and shelters. Their duties often include feeding, bathing, and exercising animals, sterilizing equipment, cleaning examination and operating rooms, and assisting with basic animal care procedures. They play an essential role in ensuring the smooth operation of veterinary practices and the well-being of animals under veterinary care. Veterinary assistants typically do not perform medical diagnoses or surgeries, but they are integral to the daily functioning of animal healthcare teams.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Assistant Vet, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Assistant Vet, you need a solid understanding of animal care, basic veterinary procedures, and usually a relevant certification or diploma in veterinary assistance. Familiarity with veterinary practice management software, laboratory equipment, and safe animal handling techniques is often required. Strong communication, empathy, and attention to detail help you interact effectively with both animals and their owners. These skills and qualities ensure the safety, well-being, and efficient care of animal patients while supporting veterinary teams.

What are some common challenges faced by Assistant Vets, and how can they prepare for them?

Assistant Vets often encounter fast-paced environments where multitasking and attention to detail are essential. A common challenge is managing the emotional aspects of caring for sick or injured animals while supporting pet owners with compassion. Additionally, Assistant Vets regularly assist with restraining animals, cleaning facilities, and preparing for procedures, which can be physically demanding. Preparing by developing strong communication skills, learning proper animal handling techniques, and maintaining resilience can help candidates thrive in this role.

What is the most a vet assistant can make?

The highest salaries for vet assistants typically reach around $35,000 to $40,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and certifications. Advancement opportunities or specialized skills can lead to higher pay, but vet assistants generally earn less than licensed veterinary technicians or veterinarians.
More about Assistant Vet jobs
What cities are hiring for Assistant Vet jobs? Cities with the most Assistant Vet job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Vet jobs? The most popular types of Vet jobs are:
What states have the most Assistant Vet jobs? States with the most job openings for Assistant Vet jobs include:
Infographic showing various Assistant Vet job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,859 per year, or $17.2 per hour.

Assistant Vet Scientist (ENBRC) - Atlanta, GA

Emory University

Atlanta, GA • On-site

$15.25 - $19.25/hr

Full-time

Posted yesterday

New


Emory Healthcare rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 214 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

132nd of 885 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Emory University is a leading research university that fosters excellence and attracts world-class talent to innovate today and prepare leaders for the future. We welcome candidates who can contribute to the excellence of our academic community.

Join one of the nation’s premier non-human primate (NHP) veterinary programs and build your career in primate medicine and research at the Emory National Biomedical Research Center (ENBRC). ENBRC is seeking applicants for a faculty-equivalent position as an Assistant Vet Scientist (Clinical Veterinarian) to join our team in the Division of Animal Resources. This is an outstanding opportunity to join a nationally recognized program in laboratory animal medicine and research, working with nonhuman primates and rodents. The successful candidate will become part of a collaborative team of twelve veterinarians dedicated to advancing animal welfare, supporting innovative biomedical research, and providing exceptional clinical care for a large and diverse nonhuman primate colony.

ENBRC is an internationally recognized biomedical research center with facilities located on Emory University's Atlanta campus and at its 117-acre Field Station in Lawrenceville, Georgia. The position is based at the Main Station on the Atlanta campus and offers opportunities to collaborate with colleagues across both locations.

The Division of Animal Resources supports a broad portfolio of research programs in immunology, infectious diseases, neuroscience, behavioral sciences, transplant medicine, imaging, and other areas of translational biomedical research. The Assistant Vet Scientist will play a central role in ensuring the highest standards of animal health, welfare, and research support while working closely with investigators, veterinary colleagues, and animal care staff.

About ENBRC

Collaborate. Innovate. Serve. These three simple words capture what we do at the Emory National Biomedical Research Center, Emory University to help advance science and improve the health and well-being of humans and non-human primates.

As one of the nation's seven National Primate Research Centers, ENBRC provides a unique environment for veterinarians seeking to practice advanced laboratory animal medicine while contributing to discoveries that improve human and animal health. Faculty work alongside internationally recognized scientists and clinicians in a highly collaborative, multidisciplinary environment that values innovation, excellence, and continuous learning.

Dedicated to discovering causes, preventions, treatments, and cures of disease, ENBRC is improving human and animal health and lives worldwide. One of seven NPRCs funded by the NIH, ENBRC conducts studies that make breakthrough discoveries possible.  Learn more at https://enbrc.emory.edu/. 

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Under minimal supervision, provides a wide and comprehensive range of clinical, preventative, and emergency veterinary care for nonhuman primates and laboratory rodents, with a primary emphasis on nonhuman primate medicine. Such care will include clinical services to a variety of species.
  • Areas of possible oversight include managed breeding and clinical, surgical, and anesthesia services.
  • Supports research programs through clinical consultation, veterinary oversight, and collaboration with investigators.
  • Participates in protocol review and regulatory compliance for university committees and activities impacting animal resources (e.g., the IACUC, chemical, radiation, and biosafety committees).
  • Teaching responsibilities include the instruction of veterinary residents, veterinary technicians, animal care technicians, research staff, and other animal care personnel.
  • Contributes to colony health management, behavioral management, and animal welfare initiatives.
  • Participates in the planning, design, renovation, and commissioning of research animal facilities.
  • Contributes to the education and mentorship of trainees in Emory's ACLAM-approved Laboratory Animal Medicine Residency Program.
  • The incumbent will assist in the maintenance of proper records and the generation of reports, applications, grants, and the like.
  • Expected to show scholarship and service to the university as appropriate.
  • The management of direct or indirect reports may be required, and training in the supervision of others is expected.
  • Demonstrated ability to function as part of a team in a team science context.
  • Performs other duties, services, and responsibilities as assigned.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

  • DVM or VMD degree from an AVMA-accredited college of veterinary medicine.
  • 2 years of experience or training in laboratory animal medicine (may include Postdoctoral Residency).
  • ACLAM board eligible.
  • Eligibility for veterinary licensure.

PREFERRED/DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS:

  • ACLAM board certification or eligibility is highly desirable.

  • Licensed to practice veterinary medicine and have training or experience in laboratory animal medicine.
  • Experience with the medical and surgical management of nonhuman primates is preferred, although candidates with strong laboratory animal medicine training and a demonstrated interest in developing expertise in nonhuman primate medicine are encouraged to apply.

  • Experience in an academic or research environment is also desirable.

  • Excellent interpersonal, communication, and collaborative skills.

WORKING ENVIRONMENT:

  • Work environment involves working with biohazardous blood and tissues.
  • Work environment involves some exposure to hazards or physical risks, which require following basic safety precautions.

This position offers exceptional opportunities for professional growth and career development. Faculty are encouraged to develop expertise in nonhuman primate medicine, pursue collaborative and independent scholarly activities, participate in national professional organizations, and assume progressive leadership roles within the Division of Animal Resources and the broader research community. Opportunities for mentorship, continuing education, and academic advancement are integral components of the position. The Assistant Vet Scientist reports to the Chief of Clinical Operations at the Main Station and the Associate Director of Animal Resources and is a member of the integrated veterinary team serving both the Main Station and Field Station. Emory University offers a competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package.

PRE-EMPLOYMENT STATEMENT:

The Emory National Biomedical Research Center (ENBRC), in conjunction with Emory University, conducts pre-employment screenings for all positions. These screenings may include an Information Network Associates (INA) and criminal background check, and verification of work history, academic credentials, licenses, and certifications. In addition, the process may include a drug screening with health assessment, and review and mandate for various vaccinations. Updated COVID-19 vaccinations may be necessary for specific research projects.

NOTE: Position tasks are required to be performed in-person at an Emory University location; working remote is not an option. Emory reserves the right to change this status with notice to employee.


Emory is an equal opportunity employer, and qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, protected veteran status or other characteristics protected by state or federal law. Emory University does not discriminate in admissions, educational programs, or employment, including recruitment, hiring, promotions, transfers, discipline, terminations, wage and salary administration, benefits, and training. Students, faculty, and staff are assured of participation in university programs and in the use of facilities without such discrimination. Emory University complies with Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the Vietnam Era Veteran's Readjustment Assistance Act, and applicable executive orders, federal and state regulations regarding nondiscrimination, equal opportunity, and affirmative action (for protected veterans and individuals with disabilities). Inquiries regarding this policy should be directed to the Emory University Department of Equity and Civil Rights Compliance, 201 Dowman Drive, Administration Building, Atlanta, GA 30322. Telephone: 404-727-9867 (V) | 404-712-2049 (TDD).
Emory University is committed to ensuring equal access and providing reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities upon request. To request this document in an alternate format or to seek a reasonable accommodation, please contact the Department of Accessibility Services at accessibility@emory.edu or call 404-727-9877 (Voice) | 404-712-2049 (TDD). We kindly ask that requests be made at least seven business days in advance to allow adequate time for coordination.

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