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Entry Level Veterinary Assistant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Vetcor

Veterinary Assistant

Columbia, IL

$15.50 - $19.25/hr

Role: Experienced Veterinary Assistant * Status: Full-time * Salary: Negotiable and based on ... This is not an entry-level role. We're seeking someone confident in their skills, dependable, and ...

Howard Beach Animal Clinic

Be Seen First

Veterinary Assistant

Howard Beach, NY · On-site

$18 - $20/hr

A Veterinary Assistant plays a vital role in supporting veterinarians and veterinary technicians in ... Participate in weekend shifts as required Preferred Qualifications * Entry-level experience in ...

Alliance Animal Health

Veterinary Assistant

Nashua, NH · On-site

$15/hr

Our Veterinary Assistants begin at an entry level position. A typical day requires lots of stocking and cleaning of the entire hospital. As the veterinary assistant learns the flow and ways of the ...

Alliance Animal Health

Veterinary Assistant

Nashua, NH · On-site

$15/hr

Our Veterinary Assistants begin at an entry level position. A typical day requires lots of stocking and cleaning of the entire hospital. As the veterinary assistant learns the flow and ways of the ...

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Entry Level Veterinary Assistant information

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

As of Jun 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level veterinary assistant in the United States is $17.24, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.14 and $18.99 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

Can you get hired as a vet assistant with no experience?

Entry level veterinary assistant positions often do not require prior experience, as on-the-job training is common. However, having basic knowledge of animal care, good communication skills, and a willingness to learn can improve your chances of being hired. Certifications such as pet first aid may also be beneficial but are not always mandatory for entry-level roles.

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.

Is it hard to get a job as a veterinary assistant?

Getting a job as an entry-level veterinary assistant can be competitive, but many employers are willing to hire candidates with basic skills and a willingness to learn. Relevant certifications, such as animal care or safety training, can improve job prospects, and some positions may require prior experience or a high school diploma. Overall, with proper preparation, entry-level roles are accessible to those interested in animal care.

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.

What are entry level veterinary assistants?

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.

Is becoming a CVT worth it?

Becoming a Certified Veterinary Technician (CVT) can enhance job prospects and earning potential for veterinary assistants by demonstrating advanced skills and knowledge. However, it requires additional education, certification exams, and time investment, which should be weighed against career goals and job market demand.

How to get started as a veterinarian assistant?

To start as a veterinary assistant, obtain a high school diploma or equivalent, and consider completing a veterinary assisting program or certification to gain relevant skills. Gaining experience through volunteering or entry-level positions in animal care settings can also be helpful. Strong communication skills, basic knowledge of animal health, and familiarity with veterinary tools are valuable for this role.
More about Entry Level Veterinary Assistant jobs
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What job categories do people searching Entry Level Veterinary Assistant jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Veterinary Assistant jobs are:
Entry Level Veterinary Assistant jobs near you
Veterinary Assistant

Veterinary Assistant

Vetcor

Columbia, IL

$15.50 - $19.25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago

Vetcor rating

6.3

Company rating: 6.3 out of 10

Based on 214 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

21st of 48 rated veterinary

Job description

Mueller Veterinary Services is Hiring a Veterinary Assistant!

Position Details

  • Role: Experienced Veterinary Assistant
  • Status: Full-time
  • Salary: Negotiable and based on experience
  • Schedule: 4 day work week with rotating Saturdays

Benefits Highlights

  • Financial Rewards that Grow with You: Competitive pay, 401(k) matching, tuition support, and referral bonuses
  • Wellness & Peace of Mind: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage with supplemental options; up to three weeks of paid parental leave; generous PTO; and employee discounts
  • Professional Growth & Recognition: Quarterly team bonuses, continuing education allowance, state license & VTNE fee reimbursement, and uniform allowance
  • Lifestyle Perks You’ll Appreciate: Six paid holidays and an Employee Assistance Program

Join Our Team as a Veterinary Assistant! 

Mueller Veterinary Services – Mixed-Animal Practice 

At Mueller Veterinary Services, we know that exceptional patient care starts with a strong, supported team. We’re a four-doctor, mixed-animal practice built on collaboration, compassion, and growth—and we’re looking for an experienced, full-time Veterinary Assistant to join us.

This is not an entry-level role. We’re seeking someone confident in their skills, dependable, and ready to jump in as a valued member of a fast-paced, team-oriented environment.


We take pride in creating a workplace that is supportive, fun, and growth-driven—where our assistants are utilized to their full potential and truly appreciated.

What We Offer: 

  

Financial Benefits

  • A flexible approach to compensation that reflects your skill set and future performance
  • 401(k) matching & Roth Retirement Savings Plan
  • Flexible Spending Account (full-time only)
  • 529 Savings Plan
  • Tuition Support Program (full-time only)
  • Referral bonus program

Wellness Benefits

  • Health insurance, including medical, dental, and vision (full-time only)
  • Supplemental insurance, including accident, critical illness, hospital, short and long-term disability, legal plan, and employee, spouse, and child-dependent life insurance (full-time only)
  • Up to three weeks of full pay for the birth or adoption of a child (full-time employees only; available after one year of service). In states with paid family leave programs, this benefit does not apply.
  • Sick Time / Paid Time Off
  • Free/discounted lab work for all employee pets
  • Pet discounts on services and products
  • Pet food discount program

Workplace Benefits

  • Quarterly Team Rewards Bonus Program
  • State license reimbursement
  • VTNE exam fee reimbursement
  • Professional development opportunities
  • Continuing education allowance
  • Uniform allowance

Lifestyle Benefits

  • Six paid holidays (full-time only)
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Employee discount program

If you're an experienced veterinary assistant who’s ready to thrive in a positive, growth-minded environment, we’d love to hear from you. 

If you’re an experienced veterinary assistant looking for a full-time position where you can grow, be valued, and truly enjoy where you work—we want to meet you.


Don’t miss the opportunity to be part of something great. Apply today!

  

  

Diversity, equity, and inclusion are core values of Mueller Veterinary Services and Vetcor. We are passionate about building and sustaining an inclusive and equitable working and learning environment for all employees. Every team member enriches our diversity by exposing us to various ways to understand and engage with the world. That's why we're committed to a workplace culture where employees are comfortable being their authentic selves, feel a complete sense of belonging, and are empowered to reach their highest potential. 


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