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Entry Level Vet Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Entry-Level Civil Engineer Join GPD Group, where our purpose is to improve the well-being of our ... Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer-M/F/Disabled/Vet Our company uses E-Verify to confirm ...

Kennel Attendant

Mayfield, OH ยท On-site

$12.25 - $15.50/hr

This is a great entry-level opportunity for someone considering a career in veterinary medicine or ... Access to Encore Vet Group's library of training, CE, and career development resources * A 401(k) ...

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Entry Level Vet information

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How much do entry level vet jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level vet 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 are some common challenges entry level vets face when transitioning from school to clinical practice?

Entry level vets often find the shift from academic learning to hands-on clinical work challenging. They may encounter a steep learning curve in managing a varied caseload, making quick decisions under pressure, and communicating effectively with pet owners. Additionally, adjusting to the fast-paced environment and collaborating with experienced veterinary staff requires strong teamwork and adaptability. Support from mentors and a willingness to seek feedback can help ease this transition and build confidence.

What are some sample entry level job titles for a vet?

Entry-level vet positions often include roles such as veterinary assistant, veterinary technician, or animal care technician. These positions typically require basic animal handling skills, some certification or training, and support veterinarians in clinical and administrative tasks.

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

AspectEntry Level VetVeterinary Assistant
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma; veterinary technician certification often preferredHigh school diploma or equivalent; on-the-job training
Work EnvironmentVeterinary clinics, hospitals, animal sheltersVeterinary clinics, animal hospitals, shelters
Job ResponsibilitiesPerforming exams, diagnosing, treatment planningAssisting vets, handling animals, cleaning

Entry Level Vets typically have more advanced training and perform diagnostic and treatment tasks, while Veterinary Assistants support veterinarians with basic care and animal handling. Both roles work in similar environments, but Entry Level Vets have greater responsibilities and credentials.

Is 25 too late to become a vet?

Entry-level veterinary positions typically require completing a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) degree, which can be started at any age as long as prerequisites are met. Many students pursue veterinary school after working or gaining experience in related fields, so starting at 25 is not too late to become a veterinarian.

How to work at a vet with no experience?

Entry-level veterinary assistant positions often require minimal experience and focus on supporting veterinary staff with tasks like cleaning, feeding animals, and basic patient care. Gaining relevant skills through volunteering, animal care courses, or certifications such as pet first aid can improve chances of employment and prepare you for more responsibilities.

What are entry level vets?

Entry level vets, also known as entry-level veterinarians, are recent graduates from veterinary school who have just started their careers in animal healthcare. They are licensed professionals qualified to diagnose and treat a variety of animal illnesses, perform surgeries, and provide preventative care, usually under the supervision of more experienced veterinarians. Entry level vets may work in private clinics, animal hospitals, research facilities, or shelters, and are often gaining hands-on experience as they build their skills and professional knowledge.

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

To thrive as an Entry Level Vet, you need a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) degree, state licensure, and a solid understanding of animal anatomy, diagnostics, and treatment protocols. Familiarity with veterinary practice management software, diagnostic imaging tools, and laboratory equipment is typically required. Strong communication, compassion, and attention to detail help entry-level vets build trust with pet owners and work effectively with veterinary teams. These skills and qualifications ensure accurate diagnoses, effective treatment, and positive relationships with clients and colleagues.

Is 30 too late to be a vet?

Entry-level veterinary careers typically require completing a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) degree, which can be started at any age as long as prerequisites are met. While most students begin in their early twenties, starting a veterinary career at 30 is feasible and increasingly common, provided the necessary education, licensing, and skills are acquired. Age does not disqualify someone from becoming a veterinarian if they meet the educational and professional requirements.
More about Entry Level Vet jobs
What cities are hiring for Entry Level Vet jobs? Cities with the most Entry Level Vet job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Vet jobs? The most popular types of Vet jobs are:
What states have the most Entry Level Vet jobs? States with the most job openings for Entry Level Vet jobs include:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Vet 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 Assistant -Entry Level

Veterinary Technician Assistant -Entry Level

Ocean State Veterinary Specialists

East Greenwich, RI โ€ข On-site

$25K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 9 days ago


Job description

Veterinary Technician Assistant โ€“ Entry Level


Ocean State Veterinary Specialists (OSVS) is seeking enthusiastic entry-level Veterinary Technician Assistants to join our team!

This role is ideal for individuals considering a career in veterinary medicineโ€”whether you are a pre-vet or vet tech student, exploring the veterinary nursing profession, or simply passionate about working with animals. Our entry-level positions are designed to introduce you to the hospital setting and provide the foundation for future growth.

While Technician Assistants in this role do not provide direct patient care, you will gain valuable experience in hospital operations, cleaning protocols, and basic emergency concepts. Team members who show dedication, initiative, and a strong work ethic may have the opportunity to advance into more hands-on training. This full-time position includes some evening, weekend, and holiday shifts.

Essential Responsibilities

  • Clean, disinfect, and organize patient areas, exam rooms, food prep areas, and equipment
  • Manage laundry, including patient bedding and surgical linens
  • Restock medical and surgical supplies
  • Maintain indoor and outdoor patient areas
  • Assist team members by gathering supplies for patient care, diagnostics, and procedures
  • Ensure OSHA compliance in labeling and waste disposal
  • Perform morgue duties as needed according to protocol

Qualifications

  • High school diploma or GED required
  • Degree in Animal Science or Animal Care certification preferred, but not required
  • Ability to lift, drag, or pull up to 35 lbs and remain on feet for most of the shift
  • Professional, dependable, and respectful communicator with colleagues, clients, and referring veterinarians
  • Ability to follow instructions, manage multiple tasks, and prioritize effectively

Benefits (Full-Time)

  • Employer-paid medical insurance premiums and deductible for employees
  • Medical, Dental, and Vision coverage options
  • 401(k) with company match after one year
  • Complimentary $25,000 life insurance policy
  • Employee pet care discounts
  • Paid Time Off and holiday pay
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
  • On-site Veterinary Social Worker

About Us

OSVS is a 35,000-square-foot specialty and emergency hospital located in East Greenwich, RI, with a sister hospital in Swansea, MA. We are home to a high-volume emergency service, a respected internship and residency program, and board-certified specialists in Internal Medicine, Surgery, Oncology, Cardiology, Radiology, and more. Our hospitals are fully equipped with advanced diagnostic and treatment tools, including CT, MRI, ultrasound, endoscopy, and telemetry.

We are proud to be a United Veterinary Care Partner Hospital, committed to supporting the individuality and growth of our team while fostering a collaborative and fulfilling workplace.

United Veterinary Care provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment in all job classifications without regard to race, color, religion, age, mental disability, physical disability, medical condition, gender, sexual orientation, genetic information, ancestry, marital status, national origin, veteran status, and other classifications protected by applicable state and local non-discrimination laws.