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Assistant Vet Jobs in Wheat Ridge, CO (NOW HIRING)

Veterinary Assistant

Arvada, CO ยท On-site

$16 - $20/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 ...

Veterinary Assistant

Lakewood, CO ยท On-site

$15.75 - $19.75/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 ...

Veterinary Assistant

Parker, CO ยท On-site

$16.25 - $20.50/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 ...

Veterinary Assistant

Castle Rock, CO ยท On-site

$16.50 - $20.50/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 ...

Veterinary Assistant

Aurora, CO ยท On-site

$16 - $20/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 ...

Veterinary Assistant

Westminster, CO ยท On-site

$16 - $20/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 ...

Lead Veterinary Technician

Denver, CO ยท On-site

$30 - $32/hr

Shape the Future of Vet Medicine. No Overnights | Flexible Shifts | Pet Benefits | Urgent Care ... assist with wound care. * Clinic Operations: Maintain accurate digital records (with AI scribe ...

Lead Veterinary Technician

Littleton, CO ยท On-site

$30 - $32/hr

Shape the Future of Vet Medicine. No Overnights | Flexible Shifts | Pet Benefits | Urgent Care ... assist with wound care. * Clinic Operations: Maintain accurate digital records (with AI scribe ...

Relief Vet

Lakewood, CO ยท On-site

$118K - $171K/yr

If you are a current associate, you will need to apply through our internal career site. Please log into Workday and click on the Jobs Hub app or search for Browse Jobs. Doctor of Veterinary Medicine ...

If you are a current associate, you will need to apply through our internal career site. Please log into Workday and click on the Jobs Hub app or search for Browse Jobs. Doctor of Veterinary Medicine ...

Vet Part-Time

Highlands Ranch, CO ยท On-site

$118K - $171K/yr

If you are a current associate, you will need to apply through our internal career site. Please log into Workday and click on the Jobs Hub app or search for Browse Jobs. Doctor of Veterinary Medicine ...

Part-Time Vet

Parker, CO ยท On-site

$118K - $171K/yr

If you are a current associate, you will need to apply through our internal career site. Please log into Workday and click on the Jobs Hub app or search for Browse Jobs. Doctor of Veterinary Medicine ...

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Assistant Vet information

See Wheat Ridge, CO salary details

$10

$18

$25

How much do assistant vet jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for assistant vet in Wheat Ridge, CO is $18.32, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.11 and $20.19 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an assistant vet?

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 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.

Can I be an assistant vet with no experience?

Becoming an assistant vet typically requires some knowledge of animal care and basic veterinary procedures, but many entry-level positions are available to those without prior experience. On-the-job training is common, and relevant skills such as communication and animal handling can improve your chances of securing a position. Certification or coursework in animal care can also be beneficial for advancement.

Is it hard to get a job as a veterinary assistant?

Getting a job as a veterinary assistant can be competitive, but entry-level positions are often available for those with basic animal care skills and a high school diploma. Relevant experience, certifications such as veterinary assistant training, and a willingness to learn can improve job prospects.

What can you do as a veterinary assistant?

A veterinary assistant supports veterinarians and veterinary technicians by handling tasks such as cleaning and sterilizing equipment, restraining animals during exams and procedures, administering basic treatments, and maintaining medical records. They often work in animal care environments and may need to follow safety protocols and basic training in animal handling. The role typically requires good communication skills and a compassionate attitude toward animals and clients.

What are popular job titles related to Assistant Vet jobs in Wheat Ridge, CO?

For Assistant Vet jobs in Wheat Ridge, CO, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Assistant Vet jobs in Wheat Ridge, CO look for?

The top searched job categories for Assistant Vet jobs in Wheat Ridge, CO are:

What cities near Wheat Ridge, CO are hiring for Assistant Vet jobs?

Cities near Wheat Ridge, CO with the most Assistant Vet job openings:

Infographic showing various Assistant Vet job openings in Wheat Ridge, CO as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 5% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,109 per year, or $18.3 per hour.

Animal Care Attendant/Technician Assistant

Encore Vet Group

Golden, CO โ€ข On-site

$16/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 19 days ago


Job description

Overview
Full-Time | Day Shift (Varies 6am-4:30pm, 8am-6:30pm and 11a-9:30pm)
Mesa Veterinary Hospital - Golden, CO
We are a busy, 9-doctor veterinary practice seeking a dedicated, detail-oriented, and compassionate team member to join our overnight crew. This role is essential in maintaining a clean, safe, and supportive environment for both our patients and staff while assisting with animal care and medical support.
If you love animals, you're already halfway there! Prior experience is a plus but not required - we provide on-the-job training for motivated individuals who are eager to learn.
Key Responsibilities
  • Perform daily cleaning and sanitation of kennels, exam rooms, treatment areas, and common spaces
  • Maintain and restock cleaning supplies according to safety and hygiene standards
  • Properly dispose of waste materials and follow hazardous material protocols
  • Assist with animal care, including:
    • Feeding, walking, bathing, and maintaining clean living spaces
    • Administering medications
    • Monitoring vital signs
    • IVC and infusion pump troubleshooting

  • Assist certified veterinary technicians with:
    • Animal restraint
    • Patient monitoring
    • Catheter placement
  • Safely restrain animals when necessary
  • Work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment

Qualifications & Skills
  • Comfortable working with a variety of animals (dogs, cats, birds, reptiles, etc.)
  • Strong attention to detail and ability to follow instructions
  • Excellent communication skills
  • Patient, caring, and dependable personality
  • Current or former pet ownership preferred
  • Ability to meet physical demands of the position, including lifting up to 50 lbs

Schedule Requirements
  • Day shifts (varies)
  • Four shifts per week (10 hour shifts).
  • Must be available to work weekends
  • Some holidays required

Compensation
  • Starting at $16.00+ per hour, based on experience

Perks+Benefits
  • Competitive pay, based on experience
  • Free virtual mental health for your household (ages 13+)
  • Medical, dental, vision, and life insurance
  • 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.

Ready to Join Our Team?
If you have a passion for animal care and think this position could be a great fit, we'd love to hear from you! Please reach out to apply! we look forward to meeting you and welcoming a new member to our Mesa family.
Check us out: www..yourmesavet.com
Mesa Veterinary Hospital 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.
#LI-DNI
Pay Range
USD $16.00 - USD $17.00 /Hr.