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Equine Veterinary Assistant Jobs in Silver Spring, MD

Equine Veterinary Assistant information

See Silver Spring, MD salary details

$10

$17

$24

How much do equine veterinary assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for equine veterinary assistant in Silver Spring, MD is $17.82, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.67 and $19.62 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an equine veterinary assistant?

Equine Veterinary Assistants are professionals who support veterinarians in the care and treatment of horses. Their responsibilities often include handling and restraining horses during examinations, assisting with medical procedures, preparing and cleaning equipment, administering medications under supervision, and maintaining patient records. They play a vital role in ensuring the well-being of horses and the smooth operation of equine veterinary practices. Good communication skills, knowledge of horse behavior, and the ability to work in a fast-paced environment are important for this job.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an equine veterinary assistant?

To thrive as an Equine Veterinary Assistant, you need a solid understanding of horse anatomy and behavior, basic animal care skills, and often a relevant certification or diploma. Familiarity with veterinary medical equipment, record-keeping systems, and safety protocols is typically required. Strong communication, attention to detail, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are standout soft skills in this role. These skills are essential for ensuring the well-being of equine patients, supporting veterinarians effectively, and maintaining a safe, efficient clinical environment.

Where do equine veterinary assistants make the most money?

Equine veterinary assistants tend to earn higher wages in regions with a strong equine industry, such as areas with many horse farms, racing tracks, or equine clinics. States or regions with higher living costs and more specialized veterinary facilities also typically offer higher pay for this role. Experience, certifications, and working in well-funded clinics can further increase earning potential.

What are some common challenges equine veterinary assistants face when working in the field, and how can they prepare for them?

Equine Veterinary Assistants often work in dynamic environments where horses may be nervous or unpredictable, especially during medical procedures. Physical stamina and the ability to remain calm under pressure are essential, as the job regularly involves handling large animals outdoors and in varying weather conditions. Building strong communication skills helps when coordinating with veterinarians, horse owners, and other team members. Gaining hands-on experience through internships or volunteer work can also better prepare candidates for the unique demands of equine practice.

Can I be an equine veterinary assistant with no experience?

Equine veterinary assistants typically do not need prior experience, as on-the-job training is common. Basic knowledge of horse care, good communication skills, and a willingness to learn are important, and some employers may prefer candidates with related certifications or animal handling experience.

What is the difference between Equine Veterinary Assistant vs Equine Veterinary Technician?

AspectEquine Veterinary AssistantEquine Veterinary Technician
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; on-the-job trainingAssociate degree in veterinary technology; certification often required
Work EnvironmentStables, clinics, outdoor settingsVeterinary clinics, hospitals, equine facilities
Job ResponsibilitiesAssisting with basic care, handling horses, cleaningPerforming medical procedures, assisting veterinarians, lab work

Equine Veterinary Assistants typically have less formal education and focus on basic care and handling, working closely with veterinarians in outdoor and stable environments. Equine Veterinary Technicians have specialized training, perform more complex medical tasks, and work in clinical settings. Both roles are essential in equine healthcare but differ in education, responsibilities, and work environment.

How to become an equine veterinary assistant?

To become an equine veterinary assistant, individuals typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and should gain experience working with horses, such as volunteering or assisting at farms or stables. Some employers prefer candidates with knowledge of animal care, basic veterinary procedures, and good communication skills; certification is not usually required but can enhance job prospects.
What cities near Silver Spring, MD are hiring for Equine Veterinary Assistant jobs? Cities near Silver Spring, MD with the most Equine Veterinary Assistant job openings:
Infographic showing various Equine Veterinary Assistant job openings in Silver Spring, MD as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 18% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,071 per year, or $17.8 per hour.

$16.25 - $22/hr

Full-time

Posted 19 days ago


Virginia Tech rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 65 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

225th of 614 rated colleges and universities


Job description

CSR/Clinical Veterinary Assistant
Job no: 536877
Work type: Staff
Senior management: College of Veterinary Medicine
Department: Equine Medical Ancillary
Location: Leesburg, Virginia
Categories: Veterinary Medicine
Job Description
This position serves as a key member of the client services, clinical support, and business operations team at the Marion duPont Scott Equine Medical Center (EMC), functioning in a rotational capacity across the roles of Customer Service Representative, Clinical Veterinary Assistant, and Business Support Specialist within a high-volume equine veterinary teaching hospital.
As a Customer Service Representative, the position handles client-facing responsibilities including professional and empathetic communication; appointment coordination; and accurate client check-in, patient intake, and discharge. Duties include explaining financial policies, processing payments, and ensuring a high-quality client experience across routine and emergency interactions.
In the Clinical Veterinary Assistant role, the position provides direct support to veterinarians and technical staff in the care of equine patients across emergency, inpatient, and outpatient services. Responsibilities include assisting with nursing, diagnostic and imaging procedures, surgical and anesthesia support, laboratory and pathology functions, clinic supply and monitoring patients in accordance with established protocols.
As a Business Support Specialist, the position performs essential administrative and financial support functions, including posting payments, supporting accounts receivable processes and collections, and maintaining accurate financial records to support efficient hospital operations.
The position is expected to independently prioritize tasks and manage workflow across functional areas; maintain a high level of accuracy, attention to detail, and accountability; and respond effectively in urgent and emergent situations to support patient and client care. The role also contributes to the training and support of veterinary students, interns, and staff, and participates in scheduled after-hours, weekend on-call coverage as required.
This position requires demonstrated competencies in customer service, equine clinical support, and administrative operations, along with the ability to adapt to rotating responsibilities and work collaboratively within a multidisciplinary clinical environment.
Required Qualifications
Demonstrated experience delivering high-quality customer service with the ability to communicate professionally and empathetically in person, by phone, and electronically.
Proven ability to prioritize tasks and manage workflow effectively across multiple functional areas in a fast-paced, high-demand environment while maintaining accuracy and attention to detail.
Experience in handling financial transactions and client accounts, maintaining confidentiality and integrity in all financial interactions.
Hands-on experience safely handling and working with a variety of sport, pleasure, and competition horses.
Working knowledge of equine anatomy, veterinary terminology, and general equine healthcare practices.
Ability to assist with a broad range of clinical procedures, including patient care, medication administration, diagnostic imaging and laboratory support.
Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively with clients, clinicians, students, and staff.
Proficiency with computer systems and the ability to learn and effectively use veterinary practice management, scheduling, and financial systems.
Preferred Qualifications
Experience working in a veterinary or human healthcare environment in a customer service, clinical support, or administrative role.
Experience using veterinary or healthcare practice management information systems, including scheduling, billing, and medical record functions.
Experience supporting business office operations, including payment posting, accounts receivable follow-up, or collections.
Experience scheduling in a multi-clinician, specialty, or high-volume practice environment.
Licensure or registration as a Veterinary Technician.
Experience supporting advanced clinical services such as anesthesia, surgery, diagnostic imaging, intensive care, laboratory testing, or pathology/necropsy.
Demonstrated ability to adapt to rotating responsibilities and work effectively across client service, clinical, and administrative functions.
Pay Band
3
Overtime Status
Non-Exempt: Eligible for overtime
Appointment Type
Restricted
Salary Information
55,000 - 60,000
Hours per week
40
Review Date
07/10/2026
Additional Information
The successful candidate will be required to have a criminal conviction check.
About Virginia Tech
Dedicated to its motto, Ut Prosim (That I May Serve), Virginia Tech pushes the boundaries of knowledge by taking a hands-on, transdisciplinary approach to preparing scholars to be leaders and problem-solvers. A comprehensive land-grant institution that enhances the quality of life in Virginia and throughout the world, Virginia Tech is an inclusive community dedicated to knowledge, discovery, and creativity. The university offers more than 280 majors to a diverse enrollment of more than 36,000 undergraduate, graduate, and professional students in eight undergraduate colleges, a school of medicine, a 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 Sciences and Technology Campus in Roanoke, sites in Newport News and Richmond, and numerous Extension offices and research institutes. A leading global research institution, Virginia Tech conducts more than $650 million in research annually.
Virginia Tech endorses and encourages participation in professional development opportunities and university shared governance. These valuable contributions to university shared governance provide important representation and perspective, along with opportunities for unique and impactful professional development.
Virginia Tech does not discriminate against employees, students, or applicants on the basis of age, color, disability, sex (including pregnancy), gender, gender identity, gender expression, genetic information, ethnicity or national origin, political affiliation, race, religion, sexual orientation, or military status, or otherwise discriminate against employees or applicants who inquire about, discuss, or disclose their compensation or the compensation of other employees or applicants, or on any other basis protected by law.
If you are an individual with a disability and desire an accommodation, please contact Sonya Kessler at skessler@vt.edu during regular business hours at least 10 business days prior to the event.
Advertised: July 16, 2026
Applications close:
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About Virginia Tech

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Virginia Tech, guided by its motto "Ut Prosim" (That I May Serve), embraces a hands-on, interdisciplinary approach to educate scholars as leaders and problem-solvers. As a comprehensive land-grant institution, it enriches the quality of life in Virginia and worldwide, fostering an inclusive community focused on knowledge, discovery, and creativity. With over 280 majors, the university serves a diverse student body of more than 36,000 across undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs. Virginia Tech's presence extends throughout Virginia, including campuses in Northern Virginia, Roanoke, Newport News, and Richmond, along with multiple Extension offices and research centers. As a prominent global research institution, it conducts over $500 million in research annually.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Blacksburg, VA, US

Year founded

1872

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