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Entry Level Vet Tech Jobs (NOW HIRING)

... as Vet Tech level 1 or 2. Level is determined by qualifications based on type of prior veterinary tech experience. * To qualify for Level 1: Entry level, new CVT grad or some CVT working experience ...

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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 Jul 14, 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 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.
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 July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 86% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,144 per year, or $21.7 per hour.

Veterinary Technician - WisCARES

Wisconsin

Madison, WI

$20 - $24/hr

Other

PTO

Re-posted 26 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 IIJob Summary:

WisCARESis a non-profit that provides veterinary care and social services to low-income or homeless pet owners.Asan outreach program withinthe University of Wisconsin-Madison's School of Veterinary Medicine, whichtrainsfuture veterinarians,WisCARESpromotesinterdisciplinary relationshipsand offerssubsidized veterinary and support services to low income or homeless individuals.This is an exciting and impactful position that allows you to provide much needed care and education in our community, while also being involved in teachingfutureveterinarytechniciansandveterinarians.For more information, visit https://wiscares.wisc.edu/

Key Job Responsibilities:

Clinical & Technical Care (65%)

Documentation, Communication & Operations (25%)

Teaching, Training & Outreach (10%)

-30% Provide high-quality animal nursing care, including monitoring health status, administering medications, and documenting care in the medical record

-10% Perform technical veterinary procedures such as blood draws, vaccinations, dental cleanings, radiographs, and specimen collection according to established care plans

-10% Complete routine laboratory testing and accurately document and disseminate results to appropriate parties

-10% Assist veterinarians with complex medical and surgical procedures as needed

-10% Serve as a point of contact for animal owners and stakeholders by providing information and responding to questions

-10% Participate in the instruction and support of veterinary students, veterinary technicians, assistants, and volunteers

-5% Maintain accurate, organized medical, procedural, and billing records; contribute to development and improvement of recordkeeping processes

-5% Dispense medications and prepare, write, and fill prescriptions in accordance with medical orders

-5% Manage medical supply inventory, including tracking usage and placing replenishment orders

-5% Demonstrate professionalism and cultural sensitivity when working with diverse clientele; apply Fear Free handling techniques

Department:

University of Wisconsin, Madison - School of Veterinary Medicine - WisCARES

Compensation:

$20-24/hr based on experience and qualifications.

UW Madison's School of Veterinary Medicine offers competitive wages, 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/, and financial support for continuing education and pursuing specialty certification.This position is being posted as Vet Tech levels 1 or 2. Level and pay arecommensuratewith experience.

Required Qualifications:
  • License/Certification: CVT - Certified Veterinary Technician

  • Ability to lift a minimum of 50 lbs. independently

  • Physical and manual dexterity to perform specialized technical tasks

This position is posted as Vet Tech level 1 or 2. Level is determined by qualifications based on type of prior veterinary tech experience.

  • To qualify for Level 1: Entry level, new CVT grad or some CVT working experience with no specialization.

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

Preferred Qualifications:

Associate's Degree

Education:

Required H.S. Diploma

How to Apply:

Please click "Apply Now" to start the application process. You will be required to submit a cover letter and resume highlighting your qualifications and experience as it relates to this position. You will also be asked to provide contact information for three references. Please ensure that your resume and cover letter address how you meet the minimum/preferred qualifications for the position.

To ensure full consideration, candidates need to submit materials by 2/8, but the position will remain open until filled.

Contact Information:

For questions or more information, please contact Hilary Cox, WisCARES Practice Manager & Lead Veterinary Nurse, at hicox@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.