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Entry Level Veterinary Assistant Jobs in Beverly, MA

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Entry Level Veterinary Assistant information

See Beverly, MA salary details

$11

$19

$26

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

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level veterinary assistant in Beverly, MA is $19.03, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.73 and $20.96 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.
More about Entry Level Veterinary Assistant jobs

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Veterinary Assistant jobs in Beverly, MA look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Veterinary Assistant jobs in Beverly, MA are:

What cities near Beverly, MA are hiring for Entry Level Veterinary Assistant jobs?

Cities near Beverly, MA with the most Entry Level Veterinary Assistant job openings:

Entry Level Veterinary Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Veterinary Assistant job openings in Beverly, MA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $39,579 per year, or $19 per hour.

Veterinary Assistant Training Program

Ethos Veterinary Health

Lawrence, MA • On-site

$15.75/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 15 days ago

Job description

Veterinary Assistant | Starting at $15.75/hour
Location: Lawrence, Massachusetts
Schedule: Full-Time | Morning, afternoon, and evening shifts
Compensation: Starting at $15.75/hour + Increase after AVA Certification Completion
Bulger Veterinary Hospital is hiring full-time entry-level Veterinary Assistants to join our team in Lawrence, Massachusetts. This opportunity includes a paid 24-month veterinary training program designed for individuals looking to start a career in animal healthcare.
No previous veterinary hospital or animal experience is required. Through structured online learning, hands-on training, mentorship, and clinical experience, you'll develop foundational veterinary skills while working toward becoming a Level 1 Veterinary Technician within Ethos Veterinary Health.
Compensation
  • Starting at $15.75/hour
  • Compensation will increase by $1/hour within 30 days of successfully passing the Approved Veterinary Assistant (AVA) exam
Full-Time Benefits:
  • Continuing Education & Uniform Allowance + Free VetBloom access (RACE-approved CE)
  • CVT/LVT/RVT license reimbursement
  • RECOVER Training for advanced CPR skills
  • Veterinary Technician Education Sponsorships + VTNE reimbursement + VTS Support
  • 16-Week VTNE Study Group
  • Professional Development Assistance
  • Generous PTO + Paid Holidays
  • Employee Referral Bonuses + Employee Pet Discount
  • Access exclusive financial benefits to help you save on student loans, mortgages, and personal loans
  • NVA Pet Resort Discount + Pet Insurance Discount
  • Medical, Dental, Vision + HSA/FSA Options
  • Insurance Options: Life and AD&D + Short & Long-Term Disability + Critical Illness + Accident + Hospital Indemnity
  • 401(k) with employer match
  • Employee Assistance Program
Schedule
  • Full-time schedule
  • Combination of morning, afternoon, and evening shifts required
  • Holiday coverage required up to 3 holidays annually
Responsibilities
As a Veterinary Assistant, you'll support veterinarians, Veterinary Technicians, and hospital teams while learning foundational skills in patient care, animal handling, and veterinary medicine.
  • Maintain a safe and clean hospital environment, including laundry, floors, cages, and patient care areas
  • Assist with basic animal handling and restraint
  • Provide basic animal husbandry and patient hygiene support
  • Perform basic record-keeping procedures
  • Ensure proper stocking of medical supplies and hospital resources
  • Support veterinarians and Veterinary Technicians with daily patient care needs
  • Build strong communication skills while supporting clients, patients, and hospital teams
  • Maintain professionalism and compassion when caring for pets and interacting with clients
About the Approved Veterinary Assistant (AVA) Program
  • This position includes enrollment in VetBloom's Approved Veterinary Assistant (AVA) program, a 6-month blended learning experience combining online education with hands-on veterinary training.
  • Through this program, you'll gain the knowledge and skills needed to sit for the national credentialing exam administered by VetMedTeam and overseen by the National Association of Veterinary Technicians in America (NAVTA).
  • After successfully passing the exam, you'll earn the credential of Approved Veterinary Assistant (AVA) and continue into the Next Step Veterinary Program.
About the Next Step Veterinary Program
The Next Step Veterinary Program is an 18-month advanced training program designed to help you progress from a Level 2 Veterinary Assistant to a Level 1 Veterinary Technician within Ethos Veterinary Health.
Training includes:
  • Patient Care & Medical Skills:
    • Perform nail trims, suture removals, and subcutaneous fluid administration
    • Administer oral, IM, SQ, and IV medications
    • Place IV catheters and perform venipuncture
    • Assist with surgical preparation and anesthesia machine setup
    • Conduct basic patient assessments and monitor vital signs
  • Surgical Support:
    • Clean and wrap surgical instruments
    • Prepare surgical packs and surgical suites
    • Maintain sterility using proper techniques
    • Assist with surgical procedures and postoperative patient care
  • Diagnostic & Laboratory Skills:
    • Perform ear cytology and basic diagnostic testing
    • Operate blood analyzing equipment and perform routine bloodwork analysis
    • Assist with ophthalmologic evaluations
    • Learn radiation safety protocols for imaging procedures
  • Client & Hospital Skills:
    • Communicate professionally with clients regarding patient care instructions
    • Maintain accurate medical records
    • Follow hospital safety and hygiene standards
    • Support proper medical waste disposal practices
  • Veterinary Knowledge Development:
    • Learn animal anatomy and common disease processes
    • Build understanding of veterinary pharmacology
    • Develop safe handling techniques for patients with various medical and behavioral needs
This comprehensive 24-month journey is designed to provide the skills, knowledge, and experience needed to grow as a veterinary professional.
Upon completing the 24-month training program at Bulger Veterinary Hospital, your employment will end. However, you will have the opportunity to apply for positions at any Ethos hospital, including Bulger, as a Level 1 Veterinary Technician, contingent upon successful completion of the program and passing all required assessments.
Qualifications
  • High school diploma or equivalent required; candidates from vocational co-op programs will also be considered
  • No previous veterinary experience required
  • Interest in building a long-term career in veterinary medicine
  • Ability to complete online and hands-on training requirements
  • Ability to perform physical job functions including walking, standing, bending, sitting, writing, hearing, seeing, speaking, and lifting up to 50 pounds
  • Knowledge and practical application of basic arithmetic, including addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division required
  • Positive attitude with self-awareness, authenticity, and compassion toward others
  • Strong teamwork skills and desire to support pets, clients, and colleagues
  • Fluent English speaking and reading skills required
About Bulger Veterinary Hospital
Bulger Veterinary Hospital is a multi-specialty and emergency veterinary hospital serving pets and families throughout Massachusetts and southern New Hampshire. Our hospital offers advanced diagnostics, specialty medicine, surgery, emergency and critical care, and collaborative treatment planning across services.
We are committed to helping veterinary technicians continue growing their skills while practicing high-quality medicine in a supportive team environment.
Surrounding Areas
Bulger Veterinary Hospital attracts veterinary professionals from across northeastern Massachusetts and southern New Hampshire, including:
  • Lawrence, MA & Andover, MA
  • North Andover, MA & Methuen, MA
  • Haverhill, MA & Lowell, MA
  • Dracut, MA & Tewksbury, MA
  • Salem, NH & Windham, NH
  • Nashua, NH & Derry, NH
  • Manchester, NH & Boston North Shore communities

Many of our team members commute from surrounding areas throughout the Merrimack Valley, Greater Boston, and southern New Hampshire.
Considering Relocating?
Great talent can come from anywhere, and we welcome candidates who are considering a move. Whether you're relocating from another city, another state, or across the country, our Talent Acquisition team is here to support you throughout the hiring process and answer questions about the role, the hospital, and the surrounding community.
About Ethos Veterinary Health
Ethos Veterinary Health, part of the NVA Group, is where you come to practice world-class medicine, and help shape what veterinary care becomes next.
Across our network of 140 specialty and emergency hospitals, science moves forward, standards are elevated, and innovation is put into practice every day. You'll work alongside respected veterinary leaders in academic-caliber hospitals designed for learning, teaching, and discovery.
Here, mentorship is a two-way street. You'll share your expertise, learn from others, and continue to grow, clinically, professionally, and personally.
At Ethos, you inspire hope, deliver exceptional care, and pursue veterinary medicine at its highest level, together.
Join Us
At Ethos, this isn't just a job, it's an opportunity to practice medicine at the highest level and help shape the future of veterinary care.
Equal Opportunity Employer
Ethos is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Ethos does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, physical or mental disability, national origin, veteran status or any other basis covered by appropriate law. All employment is decided based on qualifications, competence, merit, and business need.

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