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Entry Level Vet Tech Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

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Entry Level Vet Tech information

See Colorado salary details

$12

$22

$33

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

As of Jul 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level vet tech in Colorado is $22.82, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.70 and $26.06 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is 30 too late to be a vet?

Entry level vet techs typically start training in their late teens or early twenties, but there is no age limit for entering the field. Many people successfully switch careers or pursue veterinary technology later in life by completing certification programs and gaining hands-on experience. Age should not be a barrier if you are committed to working with animals and obtaining the necessary credentials.

Can you be a vet tech with no experience?

Entry-level veterinary technicians can often start with little to no prior experience, but most employers prefer candidates who have completed a veterinary technology program and obtained certification. Gaining hands-on experience through internships or volunteering can improve job prospects, as technical skills and familiarity with animal care are important in this 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.

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 lowest a vet tech can make?

Entry-level veterinary technicians typically earn the lowest salaries, which can start around $25,000 to $30,000 annually depending on location and employer. Starting pay may be lower for those without certification or limited experience, but salaries generally increase with additional skills and certifications such as the CVT or RVT credential.

How to start a career as a vet tech?

To start a career as an entry-level vet tech, obtain a high school diploma or equivalent, then complete a veterinary technician training program accredited by the AVMA. After graduation, pass the Veterinary Technician National Examination (VTNE) to become licensed or certified, and gain hands-on experience through internships or entry-level positions in veterinary clinics or hospitals.

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

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 entry level vet techs?

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 most commonly searched types of Vet Tech jobs in Colorado? The most popular types of Vet Tech jobs in Colorado are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Vet Tech jobs in Colorado? For Entry Level Vet Tech jobs in Colorado, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Vet Tech jobs in Colorado look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Vet Tech jobs in Colorado are:
What cities in Colorado are hiring for Entry Level Vet Tech jobs? Cities in Colorado with the most Entry Level Vet Tech job openings:
Entry Level Vet Tech jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Vet Tech job openings in Colorado as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 84% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,470 per year, or $22.8 per hour.
Vet Technician/Animal Care

Vet Technician/Animal Care

The Wild Animal Sanctuary

Springfield, CO • On-site

$60K - $70K/yr

Full-time

Posted 13 days ago

Job description

Vet Tech/Animal Care
Location: The Wild Animal Refuge
Status: Full-Time - Entry-Level Salary
Compensation: $60,000 - $70,000 (DOE)
Want to work for an organization with a positive mission, team environment, great pay, and benefits? Then, we are seeking you!
If you have you have a strong work ethic, a passion to do good, and excellent customer service skills, then apply now for our Vet Tech/Animal Care position today.
The Wild Animal Refuge- is a place where motivated individuals can immerse themselves into a dedicated community, working side by side to provide a safe-haven for rescued animals to live out the rest of their lives with dignity and respect. We are so much more than a workplace. We are a team committed to service, to bettering our communities, and the world. We are always seeking new opportunities and developing solutions that allow us to maintain the highest level of care for the animals we rescue, as well as educate the public about the plight of captive born and bred animals worldwide. EVERYTHING we do is for the animals.
If being able to make a real and tangible difference in this world fuels your spirit - as does giving to others for the right reasons - then you are not alone. Our team members openly and gladly devote their lives to a singular cause that is hands-on, challenging, innovative, taxing and pushes limits. They are the best of the best!
Primary Functions/Overview of Job Tasks:
  • Ability to perform routine vet tech procedures on animals including medication administration
  • Ability to maintain clear and accurate records
  • Able to stay on task and work energetically for the entire shift, sometimes exceeding 9 hours per day
  • Care and maintenance of all medical equipment and any other tools that are essential to daily operations
  • Animal care with ranch hand work while ensuring that the animals are fed with proper diet and restrictions
  • Document any changes of a animals condition and vital signs appropriately in medical records and notify of any unusual medical or behavioral problems
  • Communication skills must be practiced to ensure the overall safety of the Organization
  • Perform other duties as assigned

Required/Other:
  • Must have a valid Driver's License
  • Able to lift 75lbs or more
  • Able to stand for long periods of time
  • Able to work as a team

Preferred:
  • Vet Technician Certifications (Or, near completion: Veterinarian Technician License)
  • Large Carnivore Experience preferred but not required
  • Bachelor's Degree in related field
  • Career Course Materials Obtained

Personal Characteristics:
  • Self-motivated, productive, and results-oriented
  • Keeping an organized and tidy workspace
  • Flexible, ability to adapt to change and shifting priorities and to work simultaneously on a variety of complex projects
  • Teamwork orientated with ability to work independently
  • Patient, a good listener, and a heart for animals
  • Desire to learn, grow, and be coached
  • Contribute to a positive culture

As you can see, we are looking for people who possess strong foundational skills with an attitude to succeed. It's incredibly important for each auditioned to know in their heart they are truly ready to become part of something bigger than themselves and actually possess all of the core ingredients required.
If you are looking for a challenging and rewarding service opportunity with real purpose, you are special and we want to meet you!
Clear Focus:
The above Job Description is intended to describe the general duties/nature of the level of work being performed by the Vet Tech/Animal Care. This Job Description is not to be constructed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, and skills required. Job Descriptions are somewhat fluid and will change depending on the Organization's strategic direction and overall objectives accordingly.
Background Check Statement:
Approval for Hiring is contingent upon successfully passing a background check prior to your Hiring/Acceptance/Offer. This background check does not report to any credit bureau and no impact will be seen on the applicants side. This process helps the Company screen for any past background experiences that pose a threat or a discrepancy to the Organization, as TWAS does not hire any violent offenders, or individuals that have been charged criminally involving endangering/threating/hurting children and/or animals. By applying you are authorizing the The Wild Animal Sanctuary to perform this background check.
EEOC Statement:
Our Non-Profit organization, "The Wild Animal Sanctuary-Refuge" is an equal opportunity employer. All applicants will be considered for employment without attention to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, and veteran or disability status.

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