ZipRecruiter

Log In

2

Entry Level Veterinary Assistant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

SHERMAN VETERINARY PLLC

Veterinary Technician

Richmond, VT · On-site

$25 - $32/hr

Veterinary Technician Position Purpose The Entry-Level Veterinary Technician serves as a vital ... Hospital Integration, Safety, & Training * Assist veterinarians, veterinary assistants, and client ...

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 ...

Montgomery County

Veterinary Assistant

Dayton, OH · On-site

$44K - $56K/yr

... Entry level in the Veterinary Technician occupation under direct supervision of Director of ... assist clients. Summary of Job Duties Primary assistance to Registered Veterinary Technician(s ...

Montgomery County, OH

Veterinary Assistant

Dayton, OH · On-site

$44K - $56K/yr

... Entry level in the Veterinary Technician occupation under direct supervision of Director of ... assist clients. Summary of Job Duties Primary assistance to Registered Veterinary Technician(s ...

Barkera

Veterinary Technician Assistant

Davie, FL · On-site

$15.25 - $19.25/hr

Vet Tech Assistant positions in Broward County * Entry-level jobs with growth into Veterinary careers We encourage you to apply. If you are dependable, eager to learn, and passionate about providing ...

Barkera

Veterinary Technician Assistant

Fort Lauderdale, FL · On-site

$15.25 - $19.25/hr

Vet Tech Assistant positions in Broward County * Entry-level jobs with growth into Veterinary careers We encourage you to apply. If you are dependable, eager to learn, and passionate about providing ...

New

Barkera

Veterinary Technician Assistant

Fort Lauderdale, FL

$15.25 - $19.25/hr

Vet Tech Assistant positions in Broward County * Entry-level jobs with growth into Veterinary careers We encourage you to apply. If you are dependable, eager to learn, and passionate about providing ...

New

Ark Veterinary Hospital

Be Seen First

Veterinarian Assistant

Charlotte, NC · On-site

$18 - $22/hr

This is not an entry-level position. Previous veterinary experience and a strong understanding of ... Ark is seeking a skilled, motivated, and compassionate Veterinary Technician or Assistant to join ...

Fette Veterinary Clinic

Be Seen First

Veterinary Assistant / Customer Service Representative

Hermitage, PA · On-site

$14 - $17/hr

The Veterinary Assistant / Customer Service Representative will support our Family Owned Animal ... Perform timely and accurate data entry tasks Preferred Qualifications * Entry-level experience in ...

Amerivet

Part-Time Veterinary Assistant

Voorheesville, NY · On-site

$19/hr

Veterinary Assistant The Village Animal Clinic Voorheesville, New York Job Summary : The Village ... Salary range starts at $19.00 hour for entry-level and up to $24.00 for experienced applicants. Our ...

previous pagenext page

Showing results 21-40

All JobsVeterinary JobsEntry Level Veterinary Assistant Jobs

Entry Level Veterinary Assistant information

See salary details

$10

$17

$23

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

As of Sep 1, 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 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 cities are hiring for Entry Level Veterinary Assistant jobs?

Cities with the most Entry Level Veterinary Assistant job openings:

What states have the most Entry Level Veterinary Assistant jobs?

States with the most job openings for Entry Level Veterinary Assistant jobs include:

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
Infographic showing various Entry Level Veterinary Assistant job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,859 per year, or $17.2 per hour.

Experienced Veterinary Assistant

Fairfax, VA • On-site

VCA Animal Hospitals

6.2

Company rating: 6.2 out of 10

Based on 660 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

27th of 52 rated veterinary

People enjoy working here

Recommended by students

Respectful managers

Learn more about VCA Animal Hospitalsexternal

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 28 days ago

Job description

Experienced Veterinary Assistant - Surgery & Anesthesia Monitoring Required
Compensation: The pay range for this position is $28.50-$22/hr
VCA Commonwealth Animal Hospital is seeking an experienced Veterinary Assistant to join our team. We are looking for a highly skilled assistant who is passionate about delivering exceptional patient care and has hands-on experience independently monitoring anesthesia for surgical procedures. This is not an entry-level position. Applicants must have prior experience monitoring anesthetized patients during routine and advanced surgical procedures, recognizing changes in patient status, and communicating effectively with the veterinarian to help ensure patient safety throughout anesthesia and recovery. The successful candidate will support our veterinarians and licensed technicians by providing exceptional patient care while helping create a positive, low-stress environment for our clients and patients.
Responsibilities include:
  • Prepare surgical patients and the surgical suite.
  • Assist with anesthesia induction and recovery under veterinarian direction.
  • Independently monitor anesthesia during surgical procedures, including recording and interpreting vital signs, recognizing anesthetic complications, and immediately communicating concerns to the veterinarian.
  • Maintain accurate anesthesia logs and medical records.
  • Perform laboratory procedures and diagnostic imaging.
  • Fill prescriptions and prepare medications as directed.
  • Assist with patient treatments, nursing care, and restraint.
  • Provide compassionate care for hospitalized and boarding patients.
  • Maintain a clean, organized, and safe treatment and surgical environment.

Qualifications:
  • Minimum of 2 years of experience as a Veterinary Assistant in a general practice or specialty hospital.
  • Previous experience independently monitoring anesthesia for veterinary surgical patients is required.
  • Working knowledge of anesthetic monitoring equipment, anesthetic protocols, patient recovery, and surgical nursing.
  • Strong technical, organizational, and communication skills.
  • Ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced, collaborative environment.
  • Experience assisting with dentistry and dental radiography is strongly preferred.

At VCA, your passion for veterinary medicine and compassion for pets and people are matched by our commitment to your professional growth.
  • Work alongside an experienced team utilizing advanced surgical, imaging, and patient monitoring equipment.
  • Gain exposure to a diverse and rewarding caseload.
  • Learn from a network of more than 4,500 veterinarians, including 600+ boarded specialists.
  • Take advantage of continuing education, career advancement, transfer opportunities, specialization, and leadership development.

We offer competitive compensation and an outstanding benefits package for eligible employees, including medical, dental, vision, generous personal pet care discounts, continuing education opportunities, paid time off, 401(k), and much more.
If you're an experienced Veterinary Assistant who enjoys surgery, anesthesia, and providing exceptional patient care, we'd love to hear from you!
If you are a current associate, you need to apply through our internal career site. Please log into Workday and click on the Jobs Hub app or search for Browse Jobs.
Benefits: We offer competitive compensation along with a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, vision and paid vacation/sick days, 401(k), generous employee pet discounts and more!
The information in this position description indicates the general nature and level of work to be performed. It is not designed to be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities, and qualifications required of associates assigned to this job. Management reserves the right to revise the job description or require that other tasks be performed when the circumstances of the job change (for example, emergencies, change in personnel, workload, or technical development).
We are proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer - Veterans / Disabled. For a complete EEO statement please see our career page at vcacareers.com.

What VCA Animal Hospitals employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Apply