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Assistant Vet Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Veterinary Assistant

Okemos, MI ยท On-site

$14.25 - $18/hr

All Vet Assistants receive a generous benefits package including 401(k) participation, paid time off and Optimum Wellness Plans for your pets. In addition, medical, vision, dental, life and ...

Heartland Veterinary Partners' Vet Tech Externship Program works to provide externship support for veterinary technician students. Externship length & requirements are dependent upon your university.

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Assistant Vet information

See Michigan salary details

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How much do assistant vet jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for assistant vet in Michigan is $15.03, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.22 and $16.54 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.
What are the most commonly searched types of Vet jobs in Michigan? The most popular types of Vet jobs in Michigan are:
What cities in Michigan are hiring for Assistant Vet jobs? Cities in Michigan with the most Assistant Vet job openings:
Infographic showing various Assistant Vet job openings in Michigan as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $31,255 per year, or $15 per hour.

Veterinary Assistant - Veterinary Care Services of Milford

Encore Vet Group

Milford, MI โ€ข On-site

$15/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 15 days ago


Job description

Overview
Full-Time Veterinary Assistant
Care for Animals. Support Your Team. Make a Difference Every Single Shift.
Here is what a day as a Veterinary Assistant at Veterinary Care Services of Milford actually looks like. You start the morning prepping for a wellness visit, move into assisting with a procedure, circle back to help a nervous pet parent understand their dog's discharge instructions, and somehow make it all look seamless. You are not just support staff here. You are the backbone of what makes great medicine possible, and we know it.
We are a full-service, AAHA-accredited, Fear Free and Cat Friendly veterinary hospital that has been proudly serving Milford and the greater Milford area for over 25 years. We offer wellness care, surgery, dentistry, diagnostics, exotic pet care, pet chiropractic services, laser therapy, and urgent care, and we deliver all of it with a team that genuinely shows up for each other. If you want to be somewhere that takes both the medicine and the culture seriously, you are in the right place.
What you'll be doing:
  • Maintaining accurate medical records and helping answer client questions
  • Assisting with lab testing including blood, fecal, and urine
  • Safely restraining patients during exams and procedures
  • Helping educate pet parents on medications, treatments, and at-home care
  • Partnering with veterinarians and teammates to deliver top-tier patient care

Your Schedule
  • Weekends: Saturday are part of the role with time off during the week to recharge
  • Holidays: No holidays because we believe your time outside of work matters too

What We Are Looking For
  • At least 1 year of experience in a veterinary hospital or similar setting
  • A calm, steady presence with animals and the people who love them
  • Strong communication skills with both clients and teammates
  • Organized, detail-oriented, and adaptable when the day throws you a curveball
  • Cool under pressure and comfortable in a busy hospital environment
  • Eager to keep learning and growing in your role
  • A team-first mindset and the willingness to pitch in wherever you are needed

Why You Will Love Working With Us
  • We are a true team. We lead with compassion, not ego, and we show up for each other the same way we show up for our clients.
  • We offer something special. Our services go well beyond routine care. We offer exotic pet care, pet chiropractic services, wellness visits, dental care, surgery, laser therapy, diagnostics, microchipping, and urgent care, all under one roof and all delivered with genuine heart.
  • We invest in your growth. Professional development is not just something we say. It is something we actually do.

Compensation
  • Compensation for this position starts at $15/hr. Final compensation will be commensurate with experience.

What's in it for you?
  • Medical, dental, vision, and life insurance
  • Free virtual mental health for your household (ages 13+)
  • Generous CE allowance + paid CE time
  • Uniform allowance
  • Pet care discounts for your personal pets
  • PTO, floating holidays, parental leave, and military leave
  • A robust Employee Assistance Program (from finances to wellness and everything in between)
  • Access to Encore Vet Group's library of training, CE, and career development resources
  • A 401(k) with up to 5% company match

Want to work somewhere you can grow, belong, and be part of something special? Apply today!
Check us out: www.vcsmilford.com
Veterinary Care Services of Milford is proud to be partnered by Encore Vet Group - see what that means for you: www.encorevet.com
Encore Vet Group is a community of veterinary hospitals that share a passion for the profession and a strong commitment to those who provide veterinary care. We are dedicated to a great culture, strong leadership, and high-quality medicine. Veterinary practice success doesn't happen without these key ingredients.
Our hospitals maintain the culture and atmosphere of a private veterinary practice while gaining access to collective resources and veterinary business management expertise to help lead their teams forward and shape their future. Whether you're a veterinarian, technician, or support staff, our focus is to support you in doing what you love - caring for animals while advancing your career.
Pay Range
USD $15.00 - USD $20.00 /Hr.