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Entry Level Vet Tech Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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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 Jun 17, 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.

Is vet tech hard to get into?

Becoming an entry-level vet tech typically requires completing a veterinary technology program and obtaining certification, which can involve a competitive application process. While the requirements are clear, gaining acceptance may be challenging due to limited program spots and the need for relevant experience or prerequisites.

How much do entry level vet techs make?

Entry-level veterinary technicians typically earn between $25,000 and $35,000 annually, depending on location, employer, and experience. Starting salaries may be lower in some regions, but with certification and experience, pay can increase. Many entry-level vet techs work full-time in veterinary clinics, assisting with patient care and medical procedures.

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 the role involves working directly with animals and supporting veterinary staff. Certification requirements vary by region but generally include passing a credentialing exam.

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.

How to start a career as a vet tech?

To start a career as a vet tech, you typically need to complete a formal veterinary technology program accredited by a recognized agency and obtain certification or licensure if required in your region. Gaining hands-on experience through internships or volunteering at animal clinics can also improve job prospects and skills. Strong communication, animal handling, and technical skills are essential for success in this field.

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.
More about Entry Level Vet Tech jobs
What cities are hiring for Entry Level Vet Tech jobs? Cities with the most Entry Level Vet Tech job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Vet Tech jobs? The most popular types of Vet Tech jobs are:
What states have the most Entry Level Vet Tech jobs? States with the most job openings for Entry Level Vet Tech jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Vet Tech jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Vet Tech jobs are:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Vet Tech job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, and 18% Part Time. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,144 per year, or $21.7 per hour.

Veterinary Technician: Emergency Room (ER) SWING NIGHT AND WEEKEND SHIFTS

Wisconsin

Madison, WI • On-site

$24/hr

Other

PTO

Posted 28 days ago


Job description

Current Employees: If you are currently employed at any of the Universities of Wisconsin, log in to Workday to apply through the internal application process.Job Category:University StaffEmployment Type:RegularJob Profile:Veterinary Technician IJob Summary:

UW Veterinary Care (UWVC) is excited to welcome dedicated veterinary technicians to our Emergency Room (ER). Whether you're an experienced Certified Veterinary Technician (CVT) or a recent CVT graduate, we want to hear from you and we provide comprehensive training!

As the only veterinary teaching hospital in the state, UWVC offers a unique opportunity to blend your passion for animal care with the chance to mentor and train the veterinarians of tomorrow. If you're looking to make a meaningful impact in your career, UWVC is the place for you. Enjoy flexible scheduling, generous benefits, and competitive pay while helping shape the future of veterinary medicine.

Explore a career with us and see how UWVC can be the perfect environment for your professional growth!

The anticipated work schedule for this vacancy will include a rotating weeknight schedule with required shifts every other weekend. Hours generally scheduled from 4:30pm - 2:30am.

Key Job Responsibilities:
  • Serves as a point of contact for animal owners and stakeholders providing information and answering questions
  • Completes routine laboratory tests and collects specimen according to established medical orders and care plans
  • Assists with the execution of more complex animal care procedures and affiliated activities
  • Maintains organization of and updates records related to medical procedures and billing
  • Tracks supply inventory levels and places replenishment orders
  • Assist with treatments of patients in the Critical Care Unit (CCU)
  • Prepares, completes, and documents basic technical animal care procedures, assessments, and medication administration according to established care plans and medical necessity
  • Documents and disseminates results to the appropriate entities
  • Monitors animal health status and records, notifies veterinarian when status changes, and ensures care plans are completed and recorded in the medical record
Department:

School of Veterinary Medicine

UW Veterinary Care Hospital

Emergency Room (ER)

Compensation:

The starting hourly rate for this position is$24.00/hour, with flexibility based on your experience and qualifications.

You can further increase your hourly rate with:

  • $3.00/hourfor night shifts

  • $4.80/hourfor weekend shifts

With these incentives, you can earnup to nearly$8/hour in additionalshift differentials, significantly boosting your total hourly compensation.

In addition to the base pay listed in this posting, ER positions offer a substantial $3.00/hour increase on top of your base pay. Opting for a flexible schedule further enhances your earnings with an additional $2.00/ hour. Earn an extra $3.00/hour for night shifts and $1.80/hour for weekends, creating a total shift incentive potential of nearly $10.00/ hour!

Sign-on Bonus of 3-5% of base pay (based on FTE) to be paid over the first year of employment!

UW Veterinary Care offers competitive wages (including night and weekend differential, if applicable), outstanding employee benefitshttps://hr.wisc.edu/benefits/new-employee-benefits-enrollment/benefits-for-employees-covered-by-the-wrs/ ample paid time offhttps://hr.wisc.edu/benefits/leave/paid-leave/, financial support for continuing education and pursuing specialty certification, referral bonuses, an annual shoe allowance, and a yearly provision of hospital-branded clothing.

This position is being posted at Vet Tech levels 1, 2 and 3. Level and pay are commensurate with experience.

Required Qualifications:
  • Ability to lift a minimum of 50 pounds independently

  • Physical and manual dexterity to perform specialized technical tasks

This position is posted at Vet Tech levels 1, 2 and 3. Level is determined by qualifications based on type of prior veterinary
tech experience:

  • To qualify for Level 1: Entry level, new CVT grad with minimal experience

  • To qualify for Level 2: Generally, over 2 years of veterinary tech experience, may substitute years of experience for specialization

  • To qualify for Level 3: Veterinary Tech Specialist (VTS), or highly qualified and specialized in a specific area, may have prior experience from another university hospital

Preferred Qualifications:Education:

Certified Veterinary Technician (CVT) Required

High School Diploma Required

Associates Degree Preferred

How to Apply:

Begin the online application process by clicking the 'Apply' button. You will be asked to submit a current resume.

Please note that successful applicants are responsible for ensuring their eligibility to work in the United States (i.e. a citizen or national of the United States, a lawful permanent resident, a foreign national authorized to work in the United States without need of employer sponsorship) on or before the effective date of appointment.

The deadline for assuring full consideration is April 1, 2026; however, this position will remain open and applications will be considered until the position is filled.

Contact Information:

Hiring Manager: Melinda Carmody, Veterinary Nurse Supervisor, melinda.carmody@wisc.edu

Human Resources Support: April Schulz, HR Manager, ajschulz2@wisc.edu

Institutional Statement on Diversity:

Diversity is a source of strength, creativity, and innovation for UW-Madison. We value the contributions of each person and respect the profound ways their identity, culture, background, experience, status, abilities, and opinion enrich the university community. We commit ourselves to the pursuit of excellence in teaching, research, outreach, and diversity as inextricably linked goals.
The University of Wisconsin-Madison fulfills its public mission by creating a welcoming and inclusive community for people from every background - people who as students, faculty, and staff serve Wisconsin and the world.

The University of Wisconsin-Madison is an Equal OpportunityEmployer.

Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to, including but not limited to, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, age, pregnancy, disability, or status as a protected veteran and other bases as defined by federal regulations and UW System policies. We promote excellence by acknowledging skills and expertise from all backgroundsand encourage all qualified individuals to apply. For more information regarding applicant and employee rights and to view federal and state required postings, visit the Human Resources Workplace Poster website.

To request a disability or pregnancy-related accommodationfor any step in the hiring process (e.g., application, interview, pre-employment testing, etc.), please contact the Divisional Disability Representative (DDR)in the division you are applying to.Please make your request as soon as possible to help the university respond most effectively to you.

Employment may require a criminal background check. It may also require your references to answer questions regarding misconduct, including sexual violence and sexual harassment.
The University of Wisconsin System will not reveal the identities of applicants who request confidentiality in writing, except that the identity of the successful candidate will be released. See Wis. Stat. sec. 19.36(7).
The Annual Security and Fire Safety Report contains current campus safety and disciplinary policies, crime statistics for the previous 3 calendar years, and on-campus student housing fire safety policies and fire statistics for the previous 3 calendar years. UW-Madison will provide a paper copy upon request; please contact the University of Wisconsin Police Department.