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Large Animal Vet Tech Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Large Animal Vet Tech information

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How much do large animal vet tech jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for large animal vet tech in the United States is $21.70, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.79 and $24.76 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a large animal vet tech do?

A Large Animal Vet Tech, or Large Animal Veterinary Technician, assists veterinarians in the care and treatment of animals like horses, cattle, sheep, goats, and pigs. Their duties often include performing diagnostic tests, administering medications, assisting with surgeries, handling and restraining large animals, and educating animal owners about proper care. These professionals work in environments such as farms, ranches, veterinary clinics, and animal hospitals, and must be comfortable working outdoors and with animals that may be significantly larger than household pets.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a large animal vet tech, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Large Animal Vet Tech, you need expertise in animal handling, medical procedures, and a degree or certification in veterinary technology. Familiarity with livestock management software, laboratory equipment, and diagnostic tools is typically required. Strong communication, physical stamina, and the ability to work well in a team are crucial soft skills. These abilities ensure effective animal care, accurate diagnostics, and smooth collaboration in demanding agricultural and clinical environments.

Where do large animal vet techs make the most money?

Large animal vet techs tend to earn higher salaries in regions with a higher cost of living and greater demand for veterinary services, such as rural areas with large-scale farms or affluent agricultural communities. States or areas with a strong agricultural industry and larger livestock operations often offer higher wages due to increased workload and specialized skills required. Certification and experience can also influence earning potential across different locations.

What is the difference between Large Animal Vet Tech vs Equine Vet Tech?

AspectLarge Animal Vet TechEquine Vet Tech
CredentialsVeterinary Technician Certification, specialized training in large animalsSame as Large Animal Vet Tech, with focus on equine care
Work EnvironmentFarms, ranches, large animal clinicsEquine hospitals, stables, riding facilities
Employer & IndustryVeterinary clinics, animal rescue, farmsEquine veterinary practices, racing stables

Both roles require veterinary technician certification and involve working with large animals. The main difference lies in the specific focus: Large Animal Vet Techs work broadly with various large animals, while Equine Vet Techs specialize in horses. The work environments and employers are similar but tailored to different types of large animals.

More about Large Animal Vet Tech jobs
What cities are hiring for Large Animal Vet Tech jobs? Cities with the most Large Animal Vet Tech job openings:
What states have the most Large Animal Vet Tech jobs? States with the most job openings for Large Animal Vet Tech jobs include:
Infographic showing various Large Animal Vet Tech job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, and 25% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $45,144 per year, or $21.7 per hour.

Laboratory Animal Vet Technologist

Purdue University

West Lafayette, IN • On-site

Full-time

Retirement

Re-posted 24 days ago


Purdue University rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 136 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

310th of 617 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Laboratory Animal Vet Technologist
City: West Lafayette
Job Description:
Job Summary
Purdue University's Laboratory Animal Program (LAP) provides health care to research and teaching animals, promotes animal welfare, and assists researchers using animal models in the humane and appropriate use of animals at the university. The Laboratory Animal Veterinary Technologist will work with three or more laboratory animal veterinarians. The primary role will be to assist the LAP veterinarians in assuring the provision of adequate veterinary care in compliance with USFA, PHS, and Purdue University regulations and guidelines for the humane and appropriate care and use of laboratory animals. This position primarily provides assistance to veterinarians by exercising skill in the performance of common veterinary technology procedures. Other duties will include assisting with oversight of the animal care program at multiple campus facilities, maintaining frequent communication with animal facility personnel, and administrative duties associated with the animal care and use program such as maintaining accurate records.
Purdue University's Laboratory Animal Program (LAP) provides health care to research and teaching animals, promotes animal welfare, and assists researchers using animal models in the humane and appropriate use of animals at the university. The Laboratory Animal Veterinary Technician provides advanced technical and clinical support for veterinary care programs in an academic research environment. This position performs clinical procedures, supports surgical and research activities, ensures compliance with regulatory standards, and serves as a resource and mentor to junior staff. The technician operates with a high degree of independence and contributes to training, research development, and quality assurance initiatives.
What We're Looking For:
  • High School Diploma/GED
  • Two years of experience in research animal care and/or veterinary care
  • Advanced knowledge of laboratory animal medicine and husbandry practices
  • Strong technical skills in anesthesia, aseptic technique, and perioperative care
  • Ability to work independently and make sound clinical judgments
  • Effective communication and interpersonal skills
  • Strong organizational skills and attention to detail
  • Ability to train others and provide constructive feedback

What Is Helpful:
  • Some college credit
  • Laboratory Animal Technician/Technologist (ALAT) certification by the American Association of Laboratory Animal Science or ability to obtain ALAT certification within 36 months of hire (assistance provided)

What We Want You To Know:
  • Purdue will not sponsor employment authorization for this position
  • A background check is required for employment in this position
  • FLSA: Non-Exempt (Eligible for overtime)
  • Retirement Eligibility: Non-exempt Defined Contribution Plan
  • Purdue University is an EO/EA University.

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