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Entry Level Veterinary Assistant Jobs in Washington

Veterinary Assistant

Herndon, VA · On-site

$16.25 - $20.25/hr

What You'll Do As a Veterinary Assistant, you'll work alongside our doctors and licensed ... Who You Are • Previous experience in a veterinary setting preferred; motivated entry-level ...

Veterinary Technician Assistant

Alexandria, VA · On-site

$17 - $21.75/hr

Although previous experience in a veterinary hospital is preferred, we do have entry-level ... Veterinary Technician Assistants help facilitate and streamline the communication from the ...

Veterinary Technician Assistant

Alexandria, VA · On-site

$17 - $21.75/hr

Although previous experience in a veterinary hospital is preferred, we do have entry-level ... Veterinary Technician Assistants help facilitate and streamline the communication from the ...

Veterinary Technician Assistant

Alexandria, VA · On-site

$17 - $21.75/hr

Although previous experience in a veterinary hospital is preferred, we do have entry-level ... Veterinary Technician Assistants help facilitate and streamline the communication from the ...

Veterinary Receptionist

Herndon, VA · On-site

$15.50 - $18.50/hr

What You'll Do As a Veterinary Assistant, you'll work alongside our doctors and licensed ... Who You Are • Previous experience in a veterinary setting preferred; motivated entry-level ...

Entry Level Veterinary Assistant information

See Washington salary details

$11

$19

$26

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

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level veterinary assistant in Washington is $19.53, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.16 and $21.49 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.

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Veterinary Assistant jobs in Washington?

For Entry Level Veterinary Assistant jobs in Washington, the most frequently searched job titles are:

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

Cities in Washington with the most Entry Level Veterinary Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Veterinary Assistant job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 33% Full Time, and 67% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $40,614 per year, or $19.5 per hour.

$16.25 - $20.25/hr

Full-time, Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 5 days ago


Job description

About Herndon Animal Medical Center

At Herndon Animal Medical Center, we provide thoughtful, compassionate, high-quality veterinary care to the pets and families in our community. We believe strong medicine starts with a strong team - our doctors, technicians, assistants, and client service team work together to create a culture where communication, respect, and patient advocacy matter. We're looking for someone who brings a positive attitude, a strong work ethic, and genuine care for the people and animals we serve.

What You'll Do

As a Veterinary Assistant, you'll work alongside our doctors and licensed technicians to deliver excellent patient care and keep the hospital running smoothly. Responsibilities include:

Assisting veterinarians and LVTs during examinations, treatments, and procedures.

Safe and compassionate handling and restraint of dogs and cats.

Performing venipuncture, collecting samples, and running in-house lab work.

Preparing samples for outside reference labs.

Administering vaccines, medications, and treatments under veterinarian supervision.

Assisting with surgical prep, patient monitoring, and recovery.

Taking radiographs and performing other diagnostic support as needed.

Communicating with clients regarding patient care, home instructions, and follow-up.

Maintaining accurate medical records and entering charges.

Keeping exam rooms, treatment areas, and equipment clean, stocked, and ready.

Supporting general kennel and facility maintenance.

Who You Are

Previous experience in a veterinary setting preferred; motivated entry-level candidates considered.

Comfortable with venipuncture, lab procedures, and basic clinical tasks.

Able to safely and compassionately handle dogs and cats.

Clear communicator with clients, doctors, and teammates.

Organized and calm in a fast-paced hospital environment.

Reliable, punctual, and accountable.

Eager to learn and grow professionally.

Comfortable with computers and practice management software.

Able to lift and restrain pets as needed.

What We Offer

Competitive hourly pay based on experience.

Health, dental, and vision insurance.

401(k) with company match.

Paid time off and paid holidays.

Continuing education opportunities.

Uniform allowance.

Employee pet care discounts.

Training and professional development opportunities.

A supportive team environment focused on compassionate care and excellent client service.

Benefits may vary based on full-time or part-time status.

Schedule: Full-time & Part- time positions available; No nights or Weekends. 

Location: In person - Herndon, VA


NVA logo

About NVA

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Nashville Veterinary Specialists + Animal Emergency (NVS) is a veterinary specialty and emergency hospital group with two locations in Nashville and Clarksville, Tennessee. Our Mission and primary focus is to honor the human-animal bond in all we do, focusing on patient care, client experience, and the health of our team. We believe we can never stop improving and strive to improve in all we do. Not only do we focus on patient care, but core to our hospital culture is also a focus on the health of our team, our community, and the environment. We are committed to sustainable environmental practices. NVS works in partnership with National Veterinary Associates-Compassion-First (NVA C-F). NVA-CF is the largest private owner of freestanding veterinary hospitals in North America with over 1400 locations worldwide.

Headquarters location

Agoura Hills, CA, US