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Entry Level Veterinary Assistant Jobs in Michigan

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Entry Level Veterinary Assistant information

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$8

$15

$20

How much do entry level veterinary assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level veterinary assistant in Michigan is $15.03, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.22 and $16.54 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an entry level veterinary assistant?

Entry level veterinary assistants are individuals who support veterinarians and veterinary technicians in animal clinics or hospitals, typically with little to no prior experience in the field. Their duties often include feeding and bathing animals, cleaning kennels, assisting with restraint during exams, sanitizing equipment, and performing basic administrative tasks. This role is a great starting point for those interested in animal care and provides valuable hands-on experience. Entry level veterinary assistants usually work under direct supervision and may receive on-the-job training. The position can also serve as a stepping stone for further education and advancement in veterinary medicine.

What does an entry level veterinary assistant do?

Entry-level temporary positions include positions like data entry clerk and administrative assistant. You usually find these jobs through a temporary contract based on current company staffing needs. These jobs frequently offer some training and do not require any previous industry experience to get the assignment. As a temp, you may help provide different types of support, such as working phones, making orders, or adding information to databases. The duration of each contract can vary, but they can run anywhere from several weeks to several months. Any positions that require more than a year of work are usually full jobs instead of temporary contracts.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level veterinary assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Veterinary Assistant, you need a basic understanding of animal care, handling procedures, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with veterinary management software, medical equipment, and proper sanitation practices is often required. Compassion, attention to detail, and strong communication skills help you work effectively with both animals and their owners. These skills and qualities are crucial for maintaining animal well-being, ensuring smooth clinic operations, and providing supportive care to clients and veterinary teams.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level veterinary assistants and how can they prepare for them?

Entry level veterinary assistants often face challenges such as handling stressed or frightened animals, managing fast-paced workloads, and communicating effectively with both veterinary staff and pet owners. It's important to develop strong observation and multitasking skills, as well as resilience when dealing with emotional situations like euthanasia or critical care cases. Seeking mentorship from experienced team members and staying organized can help new assistants adapt more quickly and contribute positively to the clinic environment.

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

AspectEntry Level Veterinary AssistantVeterinary Technician
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; on-the-job trainingAssociate degree in veterinary technology; certification often required
Work EnvironmentAnimal clinics, shelters, pet hospitals; assisting with basic careMore advanced clinical tasks; assisting veterinarians with diagnostics and procedures
Employer & Industry UsageCommonly employed in veterinary clinics and animal care facilitiesTypically found in veterinary hospitals and clinics with more complex services
Search & Comparison IntentOften compared for entry-level roles in veterinary supportCompared for more advanced veterinary support roles

Entry Level Veterinary Assistants perform basic animal care and support tasks with minimal formal education, while Veterinary Technicians have specialized training and certification, enabling them to handle more complex clinical duties. Both roles are essential in veterinary settings, but Veterinary Technicians typically require more education and perform more advanced procedures.

Can I be an entry level veterinary assistant with no experience?

Entry level veterinary assistants typically do not need prior experience, as on-the-job training is common. Basic skills such as animal handling, communication, and a willingness to learn are often sufficient to start in this role, though some employers may prefer candidates with related coursework or certifications like veterinary assistant programs.

How to get started as an entry level veterinary assistant?

To start as an entry-level veterinary assistant, obtain a high school diploma or equivalent and consider completing a veterinary assistant training program or certification. Gaining experience through volunteering or internships at veterinary clinics can also improve job prospects; strong communication and basic animal care skills are essential. Many positions require familiarity with medical terminology, animal handling, and basic cleaning procedures.

Is it hard to get a job as an entry level veterinary assistant?

Entry level veterinary assistant positions are generally accessible to individuals with a high school diploma or equivalent and a willingness to learn. While competition can vary by location, gaining relevant skills such as animal handling and basic medical knowledge can improve chances of employment; some employers also value certification or on-the-job training.
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For Entry Level Veterinary Assistant jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Veterinary Assistant jobs in Michigan look for?

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What cities in Michigan are hiring for Entry Level Veterinary Assistant jobs?

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Entry Level Veterinary Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Veterinary Assistant job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 3% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $31,255 per year, or $15 per hour.

Veterinary Assistant Fowlerville

Mission Pet Health

Fowlerville, MI • On-site

$18 - $21/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 11 days ago

Job description

General Information
Ref #
52561
Department
Vet Tech / Vet Assistant / VT Campus
Job Site
Fowlerville Veterinary Clinic
Date Published
07-10-2026
Pay Class
Full-Time
Base Min.
$ 18
Base Max.
$ 21
Description & Requirements
Company Overview
At Fowlerville Veterinary Clinic, we are committed to providing the highest standard of small animal care, a dedication confirmed by our active AAHA accreditation. We are proud that this commitment to excellence is recognized by the community, reflected in our exceptional 4.8-star Google rating. When you join us in Fowlerville, Michigan, you become part of a deeply trusted organization focused on medical quality and professional fulfillment. This is your opportunity to do your best work alongside skilled and passionate teammates.
Joining Fowlerville Veterinary Clinic means benefiting from the support of a dedicated network that prioritizes your success. We actively promote a culture of continuous education and professional development for all our teammates. Programs are in place to help you achieve your most important career goals, whether that involves pursuing credentialing as a veterinary technician, stepping into a leadership role, or expanding your clinical skillset. We ensure every teammate has the resources necessary to grow and feel fully supported in their daily responsibilities.
We ensure the quality of medicine delivered at our small animal practice remains consistently high by providing robust resources and expertise. As a teammate, you will have immediate access to internal specialty consultation services, allowing you to elevate case management and apply the latest research and techniques. We are committed to maintaining a facility that supports progressive veterinary treatment, ensuring that you can deliver comprehensive diagnostic, therapeutic, and surgical care confidently. Our AAHA standards drive our commitment to medical excellence every day.
Fowlerville, Michigan, provides an ideal mix of accessible community living and proximity to major state centers. Located conveniently near the I-96 corridor, Fowlerville offers a charming, welcoming environment where professional life balances smoothly with personal time. This area is known for its strong community engagement and small-town feel, making it an excellent place to settle down while still being within easy reach of larger amenities and recreational opportunities across Central Michigan.
Job Description
Experienced Veterinary Assistant
Fowlerville Veterinary Clinic • Fowlerville, MI • Full-Time
Step into a role built for veterinary assistants who want more
At Fowlerville Veterinary Clinic, we call this role an Elevated Veterinary Assistant, or EVA. It is our name for a veterinary assistant working at the top of their skill set. This is not an entry-level position. If you have solid hands-on experience in a small-animal practice and you are ready to be trusted with more, this role is designed for you.
You will run diagnostics, place catheters, monitor recoveries, prepare and evaluate cytologies, take radiographs, and coach clients through preventive and follow-up care, all alongside a collaborative team of DVMs and LVTs at an AAHA-accredited, 4.8-star practice.
About Fowlerville Veterinary Clinic
We are an AAHA-accredited small-animal practice in Fowlerville, MI, backed by the Mission Pet Health network. Locally led, veterinarian-owned in spirit, with the resources of 850+ hospital teams behind us. We invest in a well-equipped hospital that provides our team with the tools, technology, and resources needed to deliver exceptional patient care.
Our team runs on the WAG values: Work Together, Amaze, and Grow. Mission Pet Health was named a 2025 "Most Loved Workplace," ranked #1 in veterinary care.
What the EVA Role Looks Like Day to Day
The EVA is the technical backbone of the clinic floor. You will move between exam rooms, treatment, surgery, and the lab, working directly with veterinarians and LVTs and taking ownership of the hands-on medical work that keeps our patients moving through their visits safely and efficiently.
Patient care and exam room support
  • Safe, low-stress handling and restraint for dogs and cats of all sizes and temperaments
  • Collect thorough patient histories and document accurately in the medical record
  • Assist doctors during exams, treatments, and outpatient procedures
  • Perform nail trims and basic grooming procedures
  • Monitor and communicate changes in the condition of hospitalized patients

Laboratory and diagnostics
  • Phlebotomy and blood sample collection
  • Prepare and interpret earcytologies; prepare and evaluate other cytology samples
  • Operate and maintainin-house diagnostics: IDEXX ProCyte, Catalyst, SediVue

  • Prepare, package, and submit outside lab work accurately
  • Perform routine radiographic procedures with proper patient positioning; maintain radiology equipment

Surgery and anesthesia
  • Surgical patient prep, including clip and scrub of the surgical site
  • Instrument cleaning, wrapping, and sterilization
  • Assist LVT/DVM with induction, intubation, and intraoperative support
  • Monitor sedated and recovering patients
  • Surgical patient billing and record keeping

Medication and treatment
  • Administer medications via oral, topical, subcutaneous, and intravenous routes
  • Perform treatments as directed and document accurately in medical records and logs

Client communication and education
  • Educate clients on preventive care, common diseases, and treatment plans in plain language
  • Deliver clear discharge instructions and home-care guidance
  • Support drop-off communication with the assigned doctor so cases move through the day smoothly

Records, front-office, and hospital flow
  • Maintain accurate medical records in Cornerstone (our practice management software)
  • Assist with appointment scheduling, phones, and client check-in/out as needed
  • Keep the hospital, treatment area, and surgical suite clean, organized, and stocked

Who We Are Looking For
This role is built for a veterinary assistant with real experience and confidence in a general-practice setting. You do not need to be credentialed as an LVT, but you should be comfortable performing the technical skills listed above with minimal supervision.
Required experience and skills
  • Minimum 2 years of hands-on experience as a veterinary assistant or equivalent role in small-animal practice
  • Proficient phlebotomy and IV catheter placement in cats and dogs
  • Comfortable operating in-house lab equipment (ProCyte, Catalyst, SediVue similar) and preparing cytologies
  • Comfortable positioning patients and running routine radiographs
  • Experience assisting with anesthesia and monitoring recoveries
  • Confident administering medications by oral, topical, SQ, and IV routes
  • Working knowledge of a veterinary practice management system (Cornerstone experience a plus)
  • High school diploma or equivalent
  • A calm, efficient presence in a fast-paced environment

Nice to have
  • Fear Free or low-stress handling certification
  • Prior experience in an AAHA-accredited practice
  • Interest in pursuing LVT credentialing (we offer educational assistance for AVMA-accredited programs)
  • Dental prophylaxis and dental radiograph experience

What We Offer
  • Competitive compensation: Base pay $18-$21/hr, commensurate with experience and skill demonstration
  • Health & wellbeing: Medical, dental, vision, and Employee Assistance Program
  • Financial security:401(k), life insurance, and disability coverage

  • Growth: Educational assistance for AVMA-accredited veterinary technician programs; internal specialty consultation access; leadership pathways
  • Perks: Discounted veterinary care for your own pets, and online discount platform
  • Community: A nationwide network of 20,000+ veterinary professionals for collaboration and best-practice sharing

Life in Fowlerville
Fowlerville sits on the I-96 corridor between Lansing and metro Detroit: small-town feel, big-region access. Strong community engagement, easy commute, and plenty of Central Michigan recreation within reach.
Ready to Apply?
If you are an experienced veterinary assistant looking for a role that trusts you with real medicine, we would love to hear from you. Apply directly through the Mission Pet Health careers portal or send your resume to our clinic manager.
Mission Pet Health is an equal opportunity employer. We embrace diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. Applicants with disabilities may be entitled to reasonable accommodation; please contact benefits@mvetpartners.com.
Your Impact as a Veterinary Assistant
  • Provide Essential Patient Care: You'll be a key player in the health of our patients, assisting the medical team with hands-on care and ensuring every animal is treated with compassion and respect.
  • Be the Go-To Support for the Medical Team: You'll be the backbone of the clinic, anticipating the needs of veterinarians and technicians to ensure a smooth, efficient, and collaborative workflow.
  • Create a Positive Client Experience: You'll help create a seamless visit for our clients by assisting with scheduling, payments, and communications, always with a courteous and informative approach.
  • Ensure a Safe and Clean Environment: You'll take pride in maintaining the hospital, performing clinic upkeep and equipment maintenance to uphold our high standards of care.
What You'll Bring to the Team
  • A High School Diploma or equivalent.
  • A calm and efficient approach, with the ability to handle a fast-paced and sometimes stressful environment with composure.
  • Confidence and skill in handling pets of all sizes and temperaments.
  • Strong organizational and communication skills.
  • Proficiency in fundamental veterinary skills ranging from laboratory and pharmacy to nursing and radiology is a strong asset.

Responsibilities and Benefits
How You're Supported
As part of the Mission Pet Health family, you get the stability of a local practice backed by the comprehensive benefits and resources of a larger network. The focus is on investing in you, so you can focus on what you love.
Note: Our comprehensive benefits package is designed to support you at every stage. Eligibility for specific benefits varies based on your role and hours worked.
Competitive Compensation
A competitive hourly rate or salary based on your experience and role.
Health & Wellbeing
We offer comprehensive coverage options including Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance, along with access to our Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for all teammates.
Financial Security
Plan for your future with our 401k retirement options and additional financial protection benefits like Life Insurance and Disability coverage.
Commitment to Growth
We support your career goals with opportunities for professional development, including educational assistance for qualified teammates to enroll in AVMA-accredited veterinary technician programs.
The Power of a Network
Join a nationwide community of over 20,000 veterinary professionals who share a passion for collaboration, career growth, and sharing best practices.
Valuable Perks
Enjoy discounted veterinary care for your own pets, access to an online discount platform, and free 24/7 access to doctors through Teladoc.
About Mission Pet Health
Mission Pet Health was founded by veterinarians on the belief that local practices thrive with clinical autonomy, collaboration, and medical excellence. The organization provides world-class support to its 850+ hospital teams on a hyper-local basis so they can focus on what matters most: the medicine, their patients, and their team culture. Learn more at missionpethealth.com.
Driving the award-winning culture are the WAG values - Work Together, Amaze, and Grow. Mission Pet Health is veterinarian-led, people-focused, and on a mission to be the best place to work in veterinary medicine. We are proud to be recognized as a 2025 "Most Loved Workplace," ranked #2 in America's Top 100 and #1 in veterinary care.
Reasonable Accommodations: Applicants with disabilities may be entitled to reasonable accommodation. Please contact benefits@mvetpartners.com with your request and contact information.
EEO Statement: Mission Pet Health is an equal opportunity employer. We embrace diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.

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