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Entry Level Vet Tech Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Entry Level Vet Tech

Minneapolis, MN · On-site

$25.95 - $30.99/hr

Research Vet Tech experience. * Proficiency in animal science, handling, recovery, and health. * Blood draw skills. Additional Skills & Qualifications * Problem-solving skills and strong ...

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Vet Tech I

Philadelphia, PA · On-site

$28.53/hr

Temple University's Central Animal Facilities Department is searching for a Vet Tech. Become a part ... For this entry-level position, the individual must be able to work in a team setting to gain ...

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Entry Level Vet Tech information

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How much do entry level vet tech jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level vet tech in the United States is $21.70, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.79 and $24.76 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an entry level vet tech?

Entry level vet techs, also known as veterinary technicians, are professionals who assist veterinarians in caring for animals. Their responsibilities typically include performing routine animal care, assisting during examinations and procedures, collecting samples, running lab tests, and maintaining medical records. Entry level vet techs usually work under the supervision of licensed veterinarians and may be employed in animal hospitals, clinics, or research facilities. Most entry level positions require completion of a veterinary technology program and, in many states, passing a certification exam. This role is a great starting point for those interested in a career in animal healthcare.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level vet tech?

To thrive as an Entry Level Vet Tech, you need a basic understanding of animal care, veterinary procedures, and a relevant certification or completion of an accredited veterinary technology program. Familiarity with veterinary practice management software, lab equipment, and basic medical tools is typically required. Compassion, attention to detail, and strong communication skills help you support both animals and their owners while working efficiently with the veterinary team. These skills are critical for ensuring animal well-being, maintaining accurate records, and fostering effective collaboration in a clinical environment.

What are some common challenges entry level vet techs face during their first year, and how can they be addressed?

Entry-level vet techs often encounter challenges such as adapting to a fast-paced clinical environment, managing emotional stress from caring for ill or injured animals, and mastering technical skills like administering medications or assisting in surgeries. Building strong communication with veterinarians and more experienced technicians can help ease the learning curve. Seeking feedback, asking questions, and participating in continuing education or on-the-job training can also support your professional growth and confidence as you settle into the role.

What is the difference between Entry Level Vet Tech vs Vet Assistant?

AspectEntry Level Vet TechVet Assistant
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma; certification or license often preferredHigh school diploma; no certification required
Work EnvironmentVeterinary clinics, hospitals, animal sheltersVeterinary clinics, animal shelters, pet stores
Job ResponsibilitiesAssist with medical procedures, take x-rays, administer medicationsAssist with animal restraint, cleaning, basic care
Industry UsageCommonly used in veterinary medicine with formal trainingOften used interchangeably but less formal training required

Entry Level Vet Techs typically have more formal training or certification and perform more technical medical tasks. Vet Assistants usually focus on basic animal care and support staff duties. Both roles are essential in veterinary settings, but Vet Techs often have greater responsibilities and credentials.

Can you become an entry level vet tech with no experience?

Entry level veterinary technician positions typically require a high school diploma or equivalent and completion of a veterinary technician training program. While prior experience is not always necessary, candidates often need to obtain certification, such as the Veterinary Technician National Examination (VTNE), to qualify for entry-level roles. Employers may provide on-the-job training for new graduates or those new to the field.

How much does an entry level veterinary technician make?

Entry-level veterinary technicians typically earn between $25,000 and $35,000 annually, depending on location, experience, and employer. Starting salaries may be higher with relevant certifications or specialized skills, and the role often involves working in a clinical or animal care environment with standard working hours.
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Cities with the most Entry Level Vet Tech job openings:

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For Entry Level Vet Tech jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Vet Tech job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 13% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,144 per year, or $21.7 per hour.

Entry Level Vet Tech

Minneapolis, MN • On-site

Actalent
Business Management Consulting • 5 - 10K employees

$25.95 - $30.99/hr

Contractor

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

Research Veterinary Technician

Job Description

The Research Veterinary Technician supports the health and responsible use of animals in biomedical research. This role involves working independently while effectively interacting and communicating with animal husbandry, veterinary, and investigative staff. The technician must be capable of working with a wide range of species, including rodents, small mammals, reptiles, amphibians, birds, production animals, and nonhuman primates.

Responsibilities

  • Provide veterinary care to animals in support of biomedical research.
  • Maintain an understanding of research studies and protocols to ensure animals receive appropriate care while respecting the integrity of each study.
  • Learn and understand how genetic manipulations support specific studies and affect animal health.
  • Accurately assess and manage pain in all species using independent judgment and established Standards of Care.
  • Administer medications via various routes including oral, subcutaneous, intradermal, intramuscular, and intravenous.
  • Perform rounds to monitor ongoing treatments and health concerns.
  • Provide post-operative and emergency care as needed.
  • Prepare animal patients for and assist in various veterinary medical and surgical procedures.
  • Perform examinations, schedule, and organize regular health screenings and vaccinations for multiple species.
  • Ensure inventory is sufficient for tasks and maintain accurate and timely records, including GLP and electronic records.
  • Regularly review medical records for accuracy and completeness.
  • Use and maintain a variety of complex veterinary equipment.
  • Maintain the pharmacy and equipment, ensuring cleanliness and order.
  • Obtain fluid or tissue samples, perform biopsies, and process diagnostic samples.
  • Work some weekends and holidays, with veterinarian on call.
  • Comply with regulatory bodies and guidelines related to the field.
  • Perform technical services for investigators including anesthesia prep, monitoring, recovery, and more.
  • Bill investigators for treatments and technical services.
  • Train departmental staff, laboratory staff, and students/interns.
  • Prepare for and assist RAR directorship during regulatory site visits.
  • Perform other clinical or technical duties as assigned.

Essential Skills

  • Licensed Veterinary Technician (LVT) in the state of Minnesota.
  • Experience with anesthesia, animal surgery, and medication administration.
  • Research Vet Tech experience.
  • Proficiency in animal science, handling, recovery, and health.
  • Blood draw skills.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

  • Problem-solving skills and strong interpersonal skills.
  • Ability to work as a team member in a lab setting.
  • Experience with conducting research according to scientific protocols.
  • Familiarity with medical terminology.
  • Experience with animal models for biomedical research.
  • Basic skills in clinical observation and treatment.
  • Basic small and large animal handling and behavior.

Work Environment

The position follows a standard shift schedule from Monday to Friday, with typical shifts from 6:00 AM to 2:30 PM, 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM, or 9:30 AM to 6:00 PM. There are currently openings for the 6:00 AM to 2:30 PM and 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM shifts. One weekend shift per month and one holiday per year are required. The role offers opportunities to shadow veterinarians outside of working hours and includes great benefits such as tuition reimbursement.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Minneapolis, MN.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $25.95 - $30.99/hr.

Individual compensation offered for this position within this range will depend on many factors, including qualifications, skills, relevant experience, job knowledge, geographic location, internal equity, and other pertinent job-related factors.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: • Medical, dental & vision • Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital • 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available • Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) • Short and long-term disability • Health Spending Account (HSA) • Transportation benefits • Employee Assistance Program • Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in Minneapolis,MN.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Sep 24, 2026.

About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 20,000 consultants and 5,000 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500. We are proud to be an Engineering News-Record (ENR) Top 500 Design Firm for our engineering design services and a ClearlyRated Best of Staffing® winner for both client and talent service.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications withoutregard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability,sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protectedby law.

If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification oradjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability,please email actalentaccommodation@actalentservices.com for other accommodation options.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance:Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in thecity and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicantswith arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector:It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as acondition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this lawshall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI):We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process,including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applicationsand qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, youacknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.


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About Actalent

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Actalent connects passion with purpose. Our scalable talent solutions and services capabilities drive value and results and provide the expertise to help our customers achieve more. Every day, our experts around the globe are making an impact. We're supporting critical initiatives in engineering and sciences that advance how companies serve the world. Actalent promotes consultant care and engagement through experiences that enable continuous development. Our people are the difference. Actalent is an operating company of Allegis Group, the global leader in talent solutions.

Industry

Business management consulting

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Hanover, MD, US

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