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Entry Level Veterinary Jobs in Silver Spring, MD

Entry Level Veterinary information

See Silver Spring, MD salary details

$12

$22

$32

How much do entry level veterinary jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level veterinary in Silver Spring, MD is $22.37, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.32 and $25.53 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

How to get into the veterinary field with no experience?

Entry-level veterinary positions often require some animal care experience, which can be gained through volunteering at shelters, assisting in pet care, or working as a kennel attendant. Obtaining certifications such as veterinary assistant or animal care courses can improve your chances, and strong communication and teamwork skills are valuable in veterinary settings.

Why are so many veterinarians quitting?

Many veterinarians leave the profession due to high workload, emotional stress from client interactions and patient care, and relatively low compensation compared to the demands of the job. Burnout and long hours often contribute to job dissatisfaction and turnover in the veterinary field.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Veterinary Technician, and why are they important?

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 jobs can I get if I love animals?

Entry-level veterinary positions include veterinary assistant, animal care technician, and kennel attendant, which involve caring for animals, cleaning facilities, and supporting veterinarians. These roles typically require compassion, basic animal handling skills, and sometimes certification or training programs. They offer hands-on experience in animal health and welfare environments.

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 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.

What are some sample entry level job titles for a veterinarian?

Entry level veterinary positions often include titles such as Veterinary Assistant, Veterinary Technician, or Animal Care Associate. These roles typically require basic animal handling skills, knowledge of veterinary procedures, and may involve supporting licensed veterinarians in clinical settings.
What are the most commonly searched types of Veterinary jobs in Silver Spring, MD? The most popular types of Veterinary jobs in Silver Spring, MD are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Veterinary jobs in Silver Spring, MD? For Entry Level Veterinary jobs in Silver Spring, MD, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Veterinary jobs in Silver Spring, MD look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Veterinary jobs in Silver Spring, MD are:
Animal Services Officer - Non-Merit

Animal Services Officer - Non-Merit

Baltimore County, MD

Towson, MD • On-site

$19.43 - $28.25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 26 days ago


Baltimore County rating

6.8

Company rating: 6.8 out of 10

Based on 23 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

516th of 649 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

Salary: $19.43 - $28.25 Hourly
Location : 13800 Manor Road Baldwin, MD
Job Type: NON-MERIT
Job Number: NM.121 05-26
Department: HHS/ANIMAL SERVICES, COMMUNICABLE DISEASE AND ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH
Opening Date: 05/18/2026
Closing Date: Continuous
Regular Schedule: 39 hours per week
A Non-Merit vacancy exists in the Department of Health and Human Services. Bureau of Animal Services, Communicable Disease and Environmental Services.
Non-Merit positions are not classified within the Baltimore County Government Classification and Compensation Plan.
A list of eligible applicants will be established based on the examination as outlined below.
Current and future vacancies occurring in any Office or Department of Baltimore County General Government may be filled from the list of eligible applicants.
All interested candidates must apply at this time.
List all promotions and changes in job duties due to reclassification as separate work experiences on your application. Applicants must include the dates of the promotions and reclassifications.
Note: Failure to complete all fields of the "Work Experience" section of the application will result in your application not being considered. A resume will not be considered in determining your qualifications for a position. Applicants selected for an interview may provide a resume at that time.
You can attach your transcript(s) or license(s) to your application.
Failure to submit proof of Licenses, Certifications and Education will result in your application not being considered. Proof of licenses, certifications, and/or education must be submitted with each application.
Examples of Duties
Under general supervision, investigates complaints, inspects facilities, and enforces laws, codes, and regulations pertaining to animal protection. Performs duties in the receipt, care, custody, and disposition of animals, and the operation and maintenance of animal shelter facilities.
  • Operates an animal services vehicle.
  • Impounds stray animals and transports them to shelter facilities.
  • Assists with aggressive, sick, injured or dead domestic pets and wildlife.
  • Impounds and returns community cats as part of the Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) program.
  • Enforces animal laws and issues citations.
  • Receives, responds to, and investigates complaints and inquiries regarding animal services.
  • Responds to emergency calls during scheduled on-call shifts.
  • Investigates reports of animal cruelty, animal bites, nuisance and/or dangerous animals and other suspected violations of animal laws including the removal of dangerous animals or those who are victims of animal neglect/cruelty.
  • Testifies in court and at hearings.
  • Inspects kennels, grooming parlors, pet shops and other animal care facilities.
  • Provides general information, instruction, education, and assistance to the public regarding animal programs, services, and operations.
  • Completes thorough inspection reports and enters data into computer.
  • Maintains vehicles and assigned equipment.
  • Assists veterinarians in the examination and treatment of animals.
  • Administers minor medical treatments to animals.
  • Euthanizes animals.
  • Prepares and delivers rabies lab specimens.
  • Keeps records of adoptions, redemptions, impoundments and euthanasia.
  • Enters data into computer.
  • Collects fees.
  • Provides information to the public about adoption, animal laws and licensing.
  • Informs pet owners about available low-cost veterinary services including rabies vaccination, microchipping and spay/neuter.
  • Shares with citizens the details and importance of Animal Services' programs including foster, volunteer, TNR and rabies prevention at off-site events and for community outreach.
EXAMPLES OF OTHER DUTIES
Performs other related duties as required.
(NOTE: The duties and responsibilities listed above are for the purpose of determining a common set of minimum qualifications for all positions in this class. They may not include all of the essential job functions of each position in the class. Each position may not be required to perform all of the essential job functions listed.)
Qualifications
Required Qualifications
Possession of a high school diploma or an appropriate equivalent
plus
two years in an investigation and enforcement capacity or animal care and handling in a shelter, veterinary hospital or other equivalent animal care/control organization.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (Entry Level)
  • Ability to learn and enforce laws, codes, and regulations pertaining to animal protection and care.
  • Ability to acquire knowledge of the principles and practices of humane animal care.
  • Ability to learn how to investigate and resolve complaints.
  • Possess and maintain certification for Euthanasia by Injection (EBI) or obtain certification within six months of hire
  • Ability to work on-call nights, weekends, and holidays.
  • Successfully complete Animal Control Officers training program within the first year of hire.
  • Ability to testify in civil and criminal court proceedings.
  • Ability to use problem solving skills, sound judgment, and common sense in working through unusual and sometimes highly emotional situations.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (Full Performance)
  • Skill in the care and treatment of animals.
  • Skill in handling and transporting of animals.
  • Skill in the use of computers and application software.
  • Ability to read and understand maps, operate GPS equipment and portable radios.
  • Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with co-workers and the public.
  • Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing.
  • Ability to complete and maintain files, records, and forms.

Licenses and Certificates
Possession of a valid driver's license equivalent to a noncommercial, class C Maryland driver's license is required at the time of appointment.
Proof of Licenses, Certifications and Education
Applicants are required to submit proof of licenses, certifications and education beyond high school to meet the required and preferred qualifications of the position. Diplomas or transcripts must show the applicant's major field of study. Copies and unofficial transcripts are acceptable.
Failure to submit proof of Licenses, Certifications and Education will result in your application not being considered. Proof of licenses, certifications, and/or education must be submitted with each application.
Proof of Degree Equivalency
Applicants who have obtained a degree from outside the United States of America are required to submit degree equivalence documentation from World Education Services, Inc. ()
Mail or deliver documents to:
ATTN: Animal Services Officer - Non-Merit
Office of Human Resources
Baltimore County Government
308 Allegheny Ave.
Towson, MD 21204
You can attach your transcript(s) or license(s) to your application.
EXAMINATION PROCEDURE
Applicants will be qualified based on an evaluation of their training and experience, as stated on their application, which includes answers to the supplemental questions. Applicants must state the dates and duties of past and present experience clearly and completely for evaluation purposes.
Conditions of Employment
Physical and Environmental Conditions
The work of this classification entails the performance of heavy physical labor including bending, stooping, lifting and carrying heavy animals and objects, and the operation of vehicles and equipment. Work requires exposure to potentially hazardous conditions such as rabid animals, adverse weather, traffic, and cleaning supplies.
Medical Examination and Employment Background Investigation
Applicants selected for an appointment to a position in Baltimore County must successfully complete a physical examination and drug screen and an employment background investigation, including, but not limited to a criminal background, education, and fingerprint check.
Employment Benefits for Non-Merit or Non-Classified, Part-Time Employees
Baltimore County General Government offers the following benefits to part-time, non-merit or non-classified employees. New employees are eligible for benefits upon hire, unless noted otherwise.
Equal Opportunity Employer
Baltimore County is an equal opportunity employer and encourages minority, female and disabled applicants.
Smoke free workplace
All Baltimore County offices are smoke free.
Drug free workplace
Baltimore County provides a drug free workplace. Prospective employees are required to submit to urinalysis drug testing as part of the pre-employment physical examination.
Employee Assistance Program
Our Employee Assistance Program provides confidential and professional assessment and referral assistance for employees and eligible dependents in the household who are experiencing personal problems that may be affecting work performance, job satisfaction, or overall quality of life.
Health Insurance
In order to qualify for health insurance benefits (medical, prescription, dental and vision insurance), part-time employees must be scheduled for four (4) full work days plus two (2) hours each week.
Health Insurance benefits elected become effective the first day of the month following the date of hire if the employee has completed online enrollment prior to that date. New employees must enroll within thirty (30) calendar days of hire. Plans offered include:
Medical, Prescription, Dental and Vision insurance.
Flexible Spending Accounts
Opportunity to set aside pre-tax dollars, through payroll deduction, for eligible unreimbursed medical care expenses and/or dependent care costs.
Life Insurance
In order to qualify for life insurance benefits, part-time employees must be scheduled for four (4) full work days plus two (2) hours each week.
Employees may elect basic term life insurance for themselves equal to one time the employee's annual salary, rounded to the next higher $1,000. Employees contribute a portion of the premium through monthly payroll deductions. The County also offers an Additional/Employee paid Life Insurance plan with coverage up to $100,000.
Retirement
Employees are required to participate in the Baltimore County Employees' Retirement System, with very limited exceptions.
Paid Leave
Sick Leave - Monthly sick leave earnings prorated based on the number of hours worked per week. No maximum on accrual. Accrued balance can be applied toward service credit at retirement.
Vacation Leave - Monthly vacation leave earnings prorated based on the number of hours worked per week. Earnings increase after five, ten and fifteen years of service generally.
Holidays - Part-time 30 to 39 hour non-merit or non-classified employees will generally be paid for ten holidays per calendar year. Other part-time, non-merit or non-classified employees working 29 hours per week or less will receive two paid holidays per calendar year. These holidays are the Christmas holiday and the Independence Day holiday.
Bereavement Leave
Jury Leave
Military Leave

Baltimore County Employees Federal Credit Union
Membership in Baltimore County Employees Federal Credit Union offers a full range of savings programs, loans, checking, direct deposit, payroll deduction, savings bonds, and other financial services.
Direct Deposit
Payroll through direct deposit to the financial institution selected by employee is required.
Deferred Compensation
Nationwide Retirement Solutions offers a 457 retirement plan allowing for payroll contributions of tax deferred dollars to investment options of your choice.
Disclaimer
This is only a summary of benefits and policies in Baltimore County. Any benefit or policy may be changed at any time at the discretion of the administration. This summary does not constitute an express or implied contract, nor does it constitute a guarantee that your employment relationship will continue for any specified period of time or end only under certain conditions.
01
The purpose of the supplemental questions listed below is to further evaluate your experience and education to determine your eligibility for this job classification. Answer each question accurately and thoroughly. The experience you indicate in your responses to the supplemental questions must also be described, in detail, on the Work History section of this application. If you cite experience in your response that is not included on the Work History section of this application, your application may be considered incomplete and you may not receive further consideration for this position. Questions with text answers require you to include the name of the employer/organization and dates of the specific experience.
  • I have read and acknowledge the above instructions.

02
Failure to complete all fields of the "Work Experience" section of the application will result in your application not being considered. A resume will not be considered in determining your qualifications for this position. Applicants selected for an interview may provide a resume at that time.
  • I have read and acknowledge the above statement.

03
Are you currently a merit (full-time), non-merit (part-time), or temporary employee of the Baltimore County General Government?Employees of Baltimore County Public Schools, Baltimore County Public Library, Baltimore County's court systems or Baltimore County Community College and employees of temporary services used by the County are not considered employees of the Baltimore County General Government.
  • Yes
  • No

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