Surgery Technician
Harrogate, TN · On-site
S., A.A.S., or B.S. in Veterinary Technology and in good professional standing. Preferred ... entry-level skills required of veterinarians; Job Duty maintain controlled drugs and surgical ...
Surgery Technician
Harrogate, TN · On-site
S., A.A.S., or B.S. in Veterinary Technology and in good professional standing. Preferred ... entry-level skills required of veterinarians; Job Duty maintain controlled drugs and surgical ...
Coordinator of Small Animal Care
Harrogate, TN · On-site
$15.75 - $21.25/hr
... Vet Teaching Center Position Category Staff Full Time The Coordinator of Small Animal Care will ... S. in Veterinary Medical Technology;. currently holds, or eligible to hold a valid veterinary ...
Coordinator of Small Animal Care
Harrogate, TN · On-site
$15.75 - $21.25/hr
... Vet Teaching Center Position Category Staff Full Time The Coordinator of Small Animal Care will ... S. in Veterinary Medical Technology;. currently holds, or eligible to hold a valid veterinary ...
Entry Level Vet Tech information
See Tennessee salary details
$10.91 - $12.54
2% of jobs
$12.54 - $14.16
8% of jobs
$14.16 - $15.79
11% of jobs
$16.28 is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$15.79 - $17.41
15% of jobs
The median wage is $18.71 / hr.
$17.41 - $19.04
18% of jobs
$19.04 - $20.67
13% of jobs
$21.72 is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$20.67 - $22.29
13% of jobs
$22.29 - $23.92
9% of jobs
$23.92 - $25.55
5% of jobs
$25.55 - $27.17
4% of jobs
$27.17 - $28.80
2% of jobs
$10
$19
$28
How much do entry level vet tech jobs pay per hour?
As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level vet tech in Tennessee is $19.70, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.15 and $22.45 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?
| Aspect | Entry Level Vet Tech | Vet Assistant |
|---|---|---|
| Required Credentials | High school diploma; certification or license often preferred | High school diploma; no certification required |
| Work Environment | Veterinary clinics, hospitals, animal shelters | Veterinary clinics, animal shelters, pet stores |
| Job Responsibilities | Assist with medical procedures, take x-rays, administer medications | Assist with animal restraint, cleaning, basic care |
| Industry Usage | Commonly used in veterinary medicine with formal training | Often 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.
What are the most commonly searched types of Vet Tech jobs in Tennessee?
The most popular types of Vet Tech jobs in Tennessee are:
What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Entry Level Vet Tech jobs?
Cities in Tennessee with the most Entry Level Vet Tech job openings:
Lincoln Memorial University rating
6.4
Based on 17 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz
526th of 621 rated colleges and universities
Job description
Position Details
Position Information
Position Title
Surgery Technician
Department
DeBusk Vet Teaching Center
Position Category
Staff Full Time
Job Description
The Surgery Technician is responsible for meeting the day to day requirements of all facilities, functions, and laboratory supplies that fall under the supervision of the CVM Surgery Program and CVM Spay/Neuter Program. This person will assist in the supervision of lab and clinical activities for assigned surgery courses and educational activities under the direction of the designated faculty. Preparation of these laboratories might include organization of resources including: faculty, animals, student groups, equipment for laboratory, medications, DEA controlled drugs, and consumables. The Surgery Technician will have direct responsibility in planning labs and oversight of equipment inventory.
Required Qualifications
A.S., A.A.S., or B.S. in Veterinary Technology and in good professional standing.
Preferred Qualifications
A minimum of one-year clinical experience in various settings, a minimum of one-year laboratory teaching experience college/school of veterinary medicine, communicate and work well with faculty, staff and students, be knowledgeable and proficient concerning the essential tasks performed by veterinary technicians/technologists as they work under the supervision of a veterinarian, & a working knowledge of computers and basic programs such as Word and Excel.
Physical Demands
Campus
Virginia
Job Duty
Job Duty
promote the mission of Lincoln Memorial University to all faculty, staff, students, and to the community at large;
Job Duty
promote effective working relationships among faculty, staff and students;
Job Duty
participate on university committees;
Job Duty
assist the designated Faculty to provide surgery related clinical and lab experiences for students in an efficient, professional, and authoritative manner;
Job Duty
assists in preparing operating rooms for complex surgical procedures and communicate well with veterinarians and veterinary technician staff;
Job Duty
assist in the education of the student under the direction of designated faculty while the student learns the veterinary medical clinical skills process as he/she acquires the knowledge, understanding, and the entry-level skills required of veterinarians;
Job Duty
maintain controlled drugs and surgical records; spay/neuter medical records; and evaluations of the students for the activities during the surgical clinical experiences;
Job Duty
ensure that all OSHA and USDA guidelines are implemented in student clinical student activities;
Job Duty
oversee medical records of animals that are used in teaching, comply with all IACUC guidelines;
Job Duty
completion of required institutional and program accreditation reports and other reports necessary for the operation and advancement of the University;
Job Duty
other duties as assigned
Posting Detail Information
Posting Number
S05432P
Job Open Date
08/10/2026
Job Close Date
12/16/2026
Open Until Filled
No
Special Instructions Summary
About the Institution
Lincoln Memorial University is a values-based learning community dedicated to providing educational experiences in the liberal arts and professional studies. The main campus is located in Harrogate, Tennessee. For more information about employment opportunities, contact the Office of Human Resources at 423-869-7112 or humanresources@lmunet.edu.
AA/EEO Statement
Lincoln Memorial University is an Equal Opportunity education institution. Lincoln Memorial University prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, ethnicity, religion, sex, national origin, age, ancestry, disability, veteran status, military status, pregnancy, sexual orientation, marital status, parental status, gender, gender identity, gender expression, and genetic information in all University programs and activities.
Background Check Statement
The University will conduct criminal background checks on all employees. Background checks may include but are not limited to confirmation of the individual's identity, credit information, motor vehicle driving record, review of an individual's criminal conviction record (if any), verification of any license, and certificate or degree required for the position.
Quicklink for Posting
https://careers.lmunet.edu/postings/45612
Minimum Salary
Maximum Salary
Position Information
Position Title
Surgery Technician
Department
DeBusk Vet Teaching Center
Position Category
Staff Full Time
Job Description
The Surgery Technician is responsible for meeting the day to day requirements of all facilities, functions, and laboratory supplies that fall under the supervision of the CVM Surgery Program and CVM Spay/Neuter Program. This person will assist in the supervision of lab and clinical activities for assigned surgery courses and educational activities under the direction of the designated faculty. Preparation of these laboratories might include organization of resources including: faculty, animals, student groups, equipment for laboratory, medications, DEA controlled drugs, and consumables. The Surgery Technician will have direct responsibility in planning labs and oversight of equipment inventory.
Required Qualifications
A.S., A.A.S., or B.S. in Veterinary Technology and in good professional standing.
Preferred Qualifications
A minimum of one-year clinical experience in various settings, a minimum of one-year laboratory teaching experience college/school of veterinary medicine, communicate and work well with faculty, staff and students, be knowledgeable and proficient concerning the essential tasks performed by veterinary technicians/technologists as they work under the supervision of a veterinarian, & a working knowledge of computers and basic programs such as Word and Excel.
Physical Demands
Campus
Virginia
Job Duty
Job Duty
promote the mission of Lincoln Memorial University to all faculty, staff, students, and to the community at large;
Job Duty
promote effective working relationships among faculty, staff and students;
Job Duty
participate on university committees;
Job Duty
assist the designated Faculty to provide surgery related clinical and lab experiences for students in an efficient, professional, and authoritative manner;
Job Duty
assists in preparing operating rooms for complex surgical procedures and communicate well with veterinarians and veterinary technician staff;
Job Duty
assist in the education of the student under the direction of designated faculty while the student learns the veterinary medical clinical skills process as he/she acquires the knowledge, understanding, and the entry-level skills required of veterinarians;
Job Duty
maintain controlled drugs and surgical records; spay/neuter medical records; and evaluations of the students for the activities during the surgical clinical experiences;
Job Duty
ensure that all OSHA and USDA guidelines are implemented in student clinical student activities;
Job Duty
oversee medical records of animals that are used in teaching, comply with all IACUC guidelines;
Job Duty
completion of required institutional and program accreditation reports and other reports necessary for the operation and advancement of the University;
Job Duty
other duties as assigned
Posting Detail Information
Posting Number
S05432P
Job Open Date
08/10/2026
Job Close Date
12/16/2026
Open Until Filled
No
Special Instructions Summary
About the Institution
Lincoln Memorial University is a values-based learning community dedicated to providing educational experiences in the liberal arts and professional studies. The main campus is located in Harrogate, Tennessee. For more information about employment opportunities, contact the Office of Human Resources at 423-869-7112 or humanresources@lmunet.edu.
AA/EEO Statement
Lincoln Memorial University is an Equal Opportunity education institution. Lincoln Memorial University prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, ethnicity, religion, sex, national origin, age, ancestry, disability, veteran status, military status, pregnancy, sexual orientation, marital status, parental status, gender, gender identity, gender expression, and genetic information in all University programs and activities.
Background Check Statement
The University will conduct criminal background checks on all employees. Background checks may include but are not limited to confirmation of the individual's identity, credit information, motor vehicle driving record, review of an individual's criminal conviction record (if any), verification of any license, and certificate or degree required for the position.
Quicklink for Posting
https://careers.lmunet.edu/postings/45612
Minimum Salary
Maximum Salary
What Lincoln Memorial University employees say
Pay
Benefits
Hours and flexibility
Workplace
Get the full story on Breakroom
About Lincoln Memorial University
Sourced by ZipRecruiter
Industry
Colleges, universities, and professional schools
Company size
51 - 200 Employees
Headquarters location
Harrogate, TN, US
Year founded
1897