1

Medical Assistant Externship Jobs in Rochester, NY

Medical Assistant Externship information

See Rochester, NY salary details

$12

$19

$27

How much do medical assistant externship jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for medical assistant externship in Rochester, NY is $19.62, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.83 and $21.59 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a medical assistant externship?

A Medical Assistant Externship is a supervised, hands-on training experience that allows students to apply their classroom learning in a real healthcare setting. During the externship, students work alongside experienced medical professionals, performing tasks such as taking vital signs, assisting with patient exams, and handling administrative duties. This experience helps students gain practical skills, build confidence, and prepare for entry-level positions as Medical Assistants. Externships are typically unpaid and are a required component of most medical assistant training programs.

How do medical assistant externships work?

A medical assistant externship is a supervised, hands-on training program that allows students or recent graduates to gain practical experience in healthcare settings. Externs typically work alongside licensed medical assistants and healthcare professionals, performing clinical and administrative tasks while developing skills and earning certifications. The program duration varies, and completion often leads to better job prospects in the medical assisting field.

What are some common challenges faced during a medical assistant externship, and how can I overcome them?

During a Medical Assistant Externship, you may encounter challenges such as adapting to a fast-paced clinical environment, balancing hands-on tasks with learning new procedures, and building confidence when interacting with patients and healthcare professionals. To overcome these challenges, it's helpful to stay organized, communicate openly with your supervisor or mentor, and proactively seek feedback. Remember that externships are designed for learning, so don't hesitate to ask questions or request clarification when needed—this will help you gain the most from your experience and prepare you for a successful career.

What is the difference between Medical Assistant Externship vs Medical Assistant?

AspectMedical Assistant ExternshipMedical Assistant
CredentialsTypically requires completion of a training program; certification may be optionalRequires completion of a training program; certification (CMA or RMA) often preferred
Work EnvironmentHands-on training in clinical and administrative settings, often supervisedFull-time clinical and administrative duties in healthcare facilities
UsageEducational experience to gain practical skills before employmentProfessional role performing patient care and administrative tasks

The Medical Assistant Externship provides students with practical, supervised experience to prepare for a career as a Medical Assistant. In contrast, a Medical Assistant is a trained professional who performs clinical and administrative duties independently. The externship is a temporary training period, while the Medical Assistant role is a full-time position in healthcare settings.

Do medical assistant externs get paid?

Medical assistant externs are typically unpaid internships that provide hands-on experience and training. However, some externships may offer stipends or hourly pay, depending on the program and organization. It is important to check the specific externship details for compensation information.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a medical assistant extern, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Medical Assistant Extern, you need foundational knowledge of clinical procedures, basic patient care, and administrative tasks, typically gained through a medical assisting program. Familiarity with electronic health record (EHR) systems, medical terminology, and standard office equipment is frequently required. Strong communication, attention to detail, and professionalism help you excel in supporting patients and collaborating with healthcare teams. These skills and qualifications are crucial for ensuring effective patient care and a smooth workflow during your externship experience.

How do I get a job as a medical assistant externship with no experience?

To secure a medical assistant externship with no experience, focus on completing a certified training program to gain foundational skills and knowledge. Highlight any relevant coursework, volunteer work, or certifications like CPR on your resume, and demonstrate a strong interest in healthcare during interviews. Some programs may also offer paid or unpaid externship opportunities designed for beginners.
What are popular job titles related to Medical Assistant Externship jobs in Rochester, NY? For Medical Assistant Externship jobs in Rochester, NY, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities near Rochester, NY are hiring for Medical Assistant Externship jobs? Cities near Rochester, NY with the most Medical Assistant Externship job openings:

DVM Student Externship/Preceptorship Program - Coldwater Animal Hospital

Coldwater Veterinary Hospital

Rochester, NY • On-site

Other

Re-posted 3 days ago


Job description

DVM Student Externship/Preceptorship Program - Coldwater Animal Hospital

Rochester, NY

We're making an investment in the next generation of veterinary doctors!

As part of the professional veterinary curriculum, colleges encourage off-campus educational experiences in practices outside of the teaching hospital. Practical experience in a well-run and contemporary practice can be a valuable component of your veterinary education, preparing you to deliver better care after graduation. Our program is dedicated to contributing to your practice-readiness and to help you hit the ground running after graduation.

Our program structure:

Our externships are flexible—they can range from two to eight weeks during the year, according to your college curriculum—but are typically two or three weeks in length. Your schedule will include days, evenings and weekends.

Our externship rotations are designed to allow students, under veterinary supervision, to practice the problem-solving, technical and communication skills that they have acquired during their clinical preparation. Externs are given the opportunity to work alongside our veterinary team and are encouraged to participate in all aspects of patient care. A stipend of $250 per week will be provided.

What you'll be doing:

Externs experience the typical caseload of a small animal practice. Under the supervision of your mentor doctor you will gather histories, perform physical examinations, develop diagnostic and therapeutic plans, scrub in to surgery, assist in the management of medical cases, provide wellness care, develop your client communication skills, polish your technical skills and produce appropriate medical records (SOAPs) within the time limits of daily practice.

Who we're looking for:

Extern students are expected to be enthusiastic and effective participants in our patient care activities, upholding the professional and ethical standards of our practice. Students participating in the externship program are suggested to review the Veterinary Practice Act in regard to the scope of duties that may be performed, and to be familiar with the type and degree of veterinary supervision that is required. These should be followed carefully in order to protect both yourself and our practice.

As a veterinary student extern, we expect you to dress and behave in a professional manner and to meet the expectations that we have of all team members as outlined in our employee handbook.

Requirements:

  • Be enrolled in an accredited DVM program.
  • You are authorized to work in the United States.
  • You must carry professional liability insurance. AVMA PLIT liability insurance is free for all student members of the AVMA. You may apply for this coverage on their website. Please check to make sure your coverage is current and submit a certificate of coverage with your application.

About us:

As sponsors of the Veterinary Externship Program, we see ourselves to be part of your educational team, providing instruction, mentoring and evaluation of the students who participate. You will be assigned a mentor and work on the learning objectives as defined by your college program or to meet your specific goals. At the end of the externship your mentor will provide a written evaluation of your performance as required by your college program.

We look forward to working with you!