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Emergency Veterinary Assistant Jobs in Raleigh, NC

Petco

Veterinary Assistant

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$15.25 - $19.25/hr

Veterinary Assistants will collect thorough patient histories and document the patient visit in the EMRs. * Assist doctors with appointments (routine and emergency), surgery, dentistry, and ...

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Emergency Veterinary Assistant information

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How much do emergency veterinary assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for emergency veterinary assistant in Raleigh, NC is $16.76, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.71 and $18.46 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an emergency veterinary assistant?

Emergency Veterinary Assistants are trained professionals who support veterinarians and veterinary technicians in animal emergency and critical care settings. They help with tasks such as restraining animals, preparing medical equipment, assisting during procedures, monitoring patients, and communicating with pet owners. Their role is crucial in providing timely care to animals experiencing urgent medical issues, ensuring smooth operation of the clinic or hospital, and supporting the veterinary team during high-pressure situations.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be an emergency veterinary assistant?

To thrive as an Emergency Veterinary Assistant, you need a solid understanding of animal care, basic medical procedures, and experience in a veterinary or animal care setting, often supported by a veterinary assistant certification. Familiarity with veterinary practice management software, medical equipment, and laboratory tools is typically required. Strong communication, teamwork, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are standout soft skills in this role. These skills and qualities are vital for providing effective support to veterinarians and ensuring the well-being of animals in fast-paced emergency situations.

What are common challenges faced by emergency veterinary assistants during overnight or weekend shifts?

Emergency Veterinary Assistants working overnight or weekend shifts often encounter fast-paced environments with unpredictable caseloads. These shifts can be emotionally demanding due to the urgent and sometimes critical nature of cases that come in. Additionally, team members must quickly adapt to changing priorities, communicate effectively with veterinarians and pet owners, and maintain composure under pressure. Strong teamwork and resilience are essential for navigating these challenges and providing the best possible care for animal patients.

What is the difference between Emergency Veterinary Assistant vs Veterinary Technician?

AspectEmergency Veterinary AssistantVeterinary Technician
CredentialsOn-the-job training, certification often preferredLicensed or certified, usually requiring an associate degree
Work EnvironmentEmergency clinics, urgent care settingsGeneral veterinary clinics, hospitals, emergency clinics
Job ResponsibilitiesAssisting in emergencies, basic patient care, client communicationPerforming diagnostics, assisting in surgeries, patient care

Emergency Veterinary Assistants and Veterinary Technicians both work in veterinary settings, but the assistant role typically involves more basic support and client interaction, often with less formal education. Technicians have specialized training and certification, allowing them to perform more complex medical tasks. Both roles are essential in emergency and general veterinary practices, but technicians usually handle more advanced procedures.

Can I be an emergency veterinary assistant with no experience?

Emergency veterinary assistants can often start with little or no prior experience, as on-the-job training is common. Basic skills such as animal handling, communication, and a willingness to learn are important, and some employers may require or prefer a high school diploma or equivalent. Certification programs are available to enhance skills and job prospects but are not always mandatory for entry-level positions.

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

Securing a position as an emergency veterinary assistant can be competitive, as it often requires relevant experience, strong communication skills, and the ability to work in high-pressure environments. Many employers prefer candidates with certification or training in animal care and emergency response, which can improve job prospects.

What cities near Raleigh, NC are hiring for Emergency Veterinary Assistant jobs?

Cities near Raleigh, NC with the most Emergency Veterinary Assistant job openings:

Emergency Veterinary Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Emergency Veterinary Assistant job openings in Raleigh, NC as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 6% As Needed, 65% Full Time, and 29% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $34,858 per year, or $16.8 per hour.

Emergency Veterinary Assistant (Part Time) - Cary, NC

Cary, NC • On-site

Veterinary Emergency Group
Veterinary Services • 1 - 5K employees
Learn more about Veterinary Emergency Groupexternal

$14.50 - $18.25/hr

Part-time

Retirement

Posted 14 days ago

Veterinary Emergency Group rating

7.0

Company rating: 7.0 out of 10

Based on 87 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

ABOUT VEG
In 2014, VEG was born with a mission to help people and their pets when they need it most. This meant challenging the status quo and fixing everything that was wrong with the ER experience. Since then, we've expanded rapidly, with hospitals nationwide open 24/7, 365 days a year, and created a better emergency experience-not only for people and their pets, but also for everyone who works here-our VEGgies!
At VEG we find a way to say yes to the career you want in veterinary emergency medicine. This means transforming how ER works, from our open-concept hospitals, where you can handle emergency cases of every kind (even exotics!) to our immersive, customer-focused experience, which helps us give people and their pets the care they deserve.
This also means saying yes to creating the greatest experience possible for our VEGgies. Yes to working in an environment where you can find your place and feel valued for the amazing work you do. Yes to having unparalleled opportunities for learning and mentorship so you can grow where you want to go in your career. And yes to making an impact here in ways you never thought possible.
VEG is a 2025 and 2026 certified Great Place to Work®..
THE JOB
At VEG, we don't just hire assistants-we grow future emergency rockstars. As a part-time Emergency Veterinary Assistant, you'll be in the heart of the action from day one, supporting your team, comforting pet parents, and learning the ropes in real time. You'll be there for everything-the triage, the treatments, and the tail wags. You're embarking on a path where careers start, grow, and thrive. Whether you're on your way to becoming a credentialed technician or exploring where your passion can take you, we'll say yes to your growth every step of the way.
WHAT YOU'LL DO*
  • Be the first warm welcome and a steady support, triaging incoming patients and helping guide them toward care
  • Assist with treatments, nursing care, and diagnostics, from bloodwork and imaging to catheter placement and oxygen support
  • Work alongside our credentialed veterinary technicians and veterinarians to set up and monitor anesthesia and sedation cases
  • Set up and manage IV fluids, blood transfusions, and medication administration
  • Assist during every moment of care: outpatient or inpatient, exam room to treatment area.
  • Join patient rounds and stay close to the clinical picture to ensure continuity of care.
  • Learn how to perform CPR and become a RECOVER Certified Rescuer (training provided!)
  • Grow into more advanced responsibilities, such as anesthesia support, ultrasound, and catheterization through guided training pathways

*As permitted by state law
WHAT YOU NEED
  • High school diploma or equivalent required
  • Enrolled in an AVMA-accredited veterinary technology program a plus
  • 1+ years in a veterinary assistant role (emergency or specialty experience is a bonus!)
  • Basic computer skills and an understanding of practice management software and electronic medical record keeping
  • Excellent communicator when collaborating with pet parents and your team
  • Fine motor skills for handling patients and medical equipment
  • Ability to stand for prolonged hours, kneel, and work on the floor as well as ability to lift up to 25 kg on own and able to support up to 40 kg with assistance
  • Must be willing to work in a noisy environment with strong or unpleasant odors
  • Availability to work nights, weekends, and holidays on a rotating or as needed basis based on hospital needs
  • Work well in a fast-paced environment with people from all backgrounds and different personality types

WHO YOU ARE
  • Empathetic, instinctively taking a people-centric approach, whether supporting your colleagues or making an effort to understand different perspectives
  • Have a sense of humility; acknowledging mistakes, sharing credit with others, and lifting up your team's' accomplishments
  • Feel a strong sense of ownership over your work, taking responsibility for outcomes and staying committed to achieving long-term, impactful results
  • Curious by nature; you ask insightful questions and continuously seek out opportunities to learn and grow your skills and knowledge

HOW WE INVEST IN YOU
  • Competitive compensation, including base and 401K match
  • A BIG focus on learning and growth from VEG-created clinical and leadership programs to Unlimited ER CE + travel stipend (No really!). Part-time credentialed VEGgies receive a $1,000/year travel stipend. Part-time uncredentialed VEGgies receive a $400/year travel stipend.
  • Flexible work schedules to support your life outside of work
  • Generous employee referral program, so our awesome people can bring in more awesome people
  • And the little (big) things, like comfy scrubs, cool VEG swag, and food in the fridge for when you're hungry

DEI
At VEG, diversity is not just a word-it's a strength that fuels innovation and kindness. Our mission is "Helping people and their pets when they need it most." And we do that better when our VEGgies (employees) feel valued, respected, and empowered to bring their authentic selves to work. That's why we're devoted to creating an environment that reflects the diverse communities we serve-where different perspectives are not only welcomed but celebrated.
We are focused on providing equitable opportunities for growth, promoting inclusive decision-making, and ensuring that everyone's perspective is considered. Saying yes to VEG means helping us build a culture where your unique experiences and background contribute to a shared vision: being the world's veterinary emergency company.

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