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Entry Level Veterinary Assistant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

Alliance Animal Health

Veterinary Assistant

Ventura, CA · On-site

$17.25 - $21.75/hr

Learn more at about us at horizonvets.com We are seeking compassionate Veterinary Assistants to ... This is an entry-level position where on the job training will be provided. The ideal candidate ...

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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 9, 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.

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 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.
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 June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 21% Part Time, and 1% 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.

Veterinary Assistant

Horse Heaven Hills Pet Urgent Care & Veterinary Center

Kennewick, WA • On-site

$17.13 - $20.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 3 days ago

Job description

Veterinary Assistant
Horse Heaven Hills Pet Urgent Care and Veterinary Center is hiring a full-time Veterinary Assistant to work alongside our team of experienced veterinarians, skilled technicians, and devoted support staff to ensure each animal receives the best possible care. If you are enthusiastic, reliable, and excited about helping us maintain our high standards of animal care and customer service, we would love to hear from you!
What to Expect
As you join our mission to provide high-quality, compassionate veterinary care when pets need it most, expect to be supported in your work and home life with:
  • All the benefits you deserve-medical, dental, vision, retirement, PTO -plus an employee pet discount because we know your pets are family, too.

Salary: $17.13 - $20.50 per hour (based on experience and qualifications)
Schedule: Working hours will vary. Monday - Saturday 7:30am -11:30pm Sundays 7:30am-7:30pm
Reports To: Lead Veterinary Technician
Key Responsibilities
  • Assist veterinarians and veterinary technicians during examinations, treatments, and surgeries
  • Handle and restrain animals safely and compassionately
  • Collect patient information including weight, vitals, medical history, and food intake
  • Prepare and review treatment plans with clients
  • Perform patient discharges and provide post-operative/procedure education
  • Perform outpatient procedures such as vaccines, nail trims, anal gland expressions, and diagnostic sample collections under supervision
  • Take radiographs using proper technique while ensuring personal safety
  • Prepare examination rooms and surgical areas by cleaning and sterilizing equipment
  • Maintain accurate medical records and ensure proper documentation
  • Assist with emergency situations and remain calm under pressure
  • Communicate professionally with pet owners about care, treatment plans, and follow-up visits
  • Maintain a clean, organized, and safe clinic environment
  • Support reception staff and cross-train in multiple areas as needed
Qualifications
Required:
  • High school diploma or equivalent
  • Physical ability to lift up to 40 lbs and to handle animals safely and compassionately
  • Strong communication and client service skills
  • Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced urgent care environment
  • Reliable, punctual, and team-oriented
Preferred:
  • Previous experience in a veterinary setting
  • Washington Veterinary Medication Clerk Permit
  • Technical skills in areas such as venipuncture, catheter placement, and anesthesia monitoring
  • CPR/BLS RECOVER certification
What Makes You Successful Here:
  • Proactive work ethic with strong initiative
  • Positive attitude and adaptability
  • Commitment to learning and professional growth
  • Excellent organizational and time management skills
  • Ability to remain calm under pressure
  • Team collaboration and constructive communication
Our Core Values
We seek team members who embody:
  • Providing exceptional service with compassion and hospitality
  • Making positive assumptions about others
  • Building trust through transparency
  • Embody a growth mindset
About Horse Heaven Hills Pet Urgent Care and Veterinary Center
At Horse Heaven Hills, we go beyond standard care to create a welcoming environment where pets receive expert attention when they need it most. By fostering trust, embracing innovation, and prioritizing service with compassion, we deliver exceptional veterinary care with empathy, integrity, and an unwavering dedication to pet well-being.
We offer career advancement opportunities with clearly defined growth paths from entry-level to senior leadership roles.
Horse Heaven Hills Pet Urgent Care and Veterinary Center is an equal opportunity employer.

Apply