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Entry Level Veterinary Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

CityVet

Veterinary Technician Assistant

Alexandria, VA

$17 - $21.75/hr

Although previous experience in a veterinary hospital is preferred, we do have entry-level positions available as well. We are willing to train the right candidate! Responsibilities The Veterinary ...

CityVet

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 positions available as well. We are willing to train the right candidate! Responsibilities The Veterinary ...

CityVet

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 positions available as well. We are willing to train the right candidate! Responsibilities The Veterinary ...

NVA

Veterinary Assistant

Herndon, VA · On-site

$16.25 - $20.25/hr

Who You Are • Previous experience in a veterinary setting preferred; motivated entry-level candidates considered. • Comfortable with venipuncture, lab procedures, and basic clinical tasks. • ...

NVA

Veterinary Receptionist

Herndon, VA · On-site

$15.50 - $18.50/hr

Who You Are • Previous experience in a veterinary setting preferred; motivated entry-level candidates considered. • Comfortable with venipuncture, lab procedures, and basic clinical tasks. • ...

Virginia Tech

Research Accountant

Blacksburg, VA · On-site

$60K - $70K/yr

... veterinary medicine college, Graduate School, and Honors College. The university has a significant presence across Virginia, including Blacksburg, the greater Washington, D.C. area, the Health ...

All JobsVeterinary JobsEntry Level Veterinary JobsEntry Level Veterinary Jobs in Virginia

Entry Level Veterinary information

See Virginia salary details

$11

$21

$31

How much do entry level veterinary jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level veterinary in Virginia is $21.52, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.64 and $24.57 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are entry level veterinary jobs?

Entry level veterinary jobs are positions within animal healthcare that typically require minimal prior experience and are suitable for recent graduates or those new to the veterinary field. These roles often include veterinary assistants, veterinary technicians, and animal care attendants, where duties may involve assisting veterinarians during examinations, performing basic animal care, and maintaining clinical records. Entry level positions provide valuable hands-on experience, training, and exposure to a variety of animal care tasks, serving as a foundation for career growth in veterinary medicine.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level veterinary technician?

To thrive as an Entry Level Veterinary Technician, you need a solid understanding of animal care, basic medical procedures, and often a veterinary technology degree or relevant certification. Familiarity with veterinary practice management software, laboratory equipment, and animal restraint techniques is typically required. Compassion, attention to detail, and strong communication skills are essential soft skills for assisting veterinarians and supporting pet owners. These abilities ensure effective animal care, enhance team efficiency, and foster positive client relationships in a clinical environment.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level veterinary professionals, and how can they overcome them?

Entry-level veterinary professionals often encounter challenges such as adapting to a fast-paced clinic environment, managing emotionally charged situations with pet owners, and balancing a variety of tasks simultaneously. To overcome these obstacles, it is helpful to seek mentorship from experienced colleagues, communicate openly with the veterinary team, and prioritize time management. Building strong client relationships and developing resilience will also make the transition into practice smoother and more rewarding.

What is the difference between Entry Level Veterinary vs Veterinary Technician?

AspectEntry Level VeterinaryVeterinary Technician
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; on-the-job trainingAssociate degree in veterinary technology; certification often required
Work EnvironmentVeterinary clinics, animal hospitals, sheltersSame as Entry Level Veterinary, often with more technical responsibilities
Employer & Industry UsageEntry-level role for those starting in veterinary fieldLicensed or certified role with more advanced duties
Common Search & Comparison IntentYesYes

Entry Level Veterinary positions are typically for individuals starting in the veterinary field with minimal formal training, focusing on basic animal care and support tasks. Veterinary Technicians, however, require specialized education and certification, performing more technical procedures. Both roles work in similar environments, but Veterinary Technicians have a higher level of responsibility and technical skill.

Can you work at an entry level veterinary with no experience?

Entry-level veterinary assistant positions often do not require prior experience, as on-the-job training is typically provided. However, having basic knowledge of animal care, good communication skills, and a high school diploma can improve chances of hiring. Certifications such as veterinary assistant courses can also be beneficial but are not always mandatory for entry-level roles.

How to start a career in veterinary?

To start a career as a veterinary professional, obtain a bachelor's degree in a relevant field such as biology or animal science, then complete a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) program accredited by the AVMA. Licensing requirements include passing the North American Veterinary Licensing Examination (NAVLE), and gaining hands-on experience through internships or externships is highly recommended.

What are the most commonly searched types of Veterinary jobs in Virginia?

The most popular types of Veterinary jobs in Virginia are:

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

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

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Veterinary jobs in Virginia look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Veterinary jobs in Virginia are:

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Entry Level Veterinary jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Entry Level Veterinary job openings:

Entry Level Veterinary jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Veterinary job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Locum Tenens, 1% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 25% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,757 per year, or $21.5 per hour.

Veterinary Assistant

Herndon, VA

National Veterinary Associates
Veterinary Services • 10K+ employees

5.8

Company rating: 5.8 out of 10

Based on 281 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

32nd of 52 rated veterinary

People enjoy working here

Learn more about National Veterinary Associatesexternal

$16.25 - $20.25/hr

Full-time, Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 11 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

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About National Veterinary Associates

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

National Veterinary Associates, based in Agoura Hills, CA, US, is a leading provider in the veterinary healthcare industry. Established in 1996, it operates independently owned veterinary practices across the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. With a passion for pet health, National Veterinary Associates supports over 1000 veterinary hospitals and pet resort entities. Though their website, nva.com, doesn't explicitly describe their mission, it is evident that their aim is to empower veterinarians with the resources they need to provide high-quality, compassionate pet care services. They have made remarkable strides in advancing veterinary medicine, which is a testament to their industry influence and commitment.

Industry

Veterinary services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Agoura Hills, CA, US

Year founded

1996

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What National Veterinary Associates employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

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