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Relief Vet Tech Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Banfield Pet Hospital

$15.19 - $19.41/hr

... vet tech assistance Adhering to hospital standards that keep pets safe, and the treatment areas ... Best-in-Class Student Debt Relief Program (for Full-Time DVMs): At Banfield, we understand the ...

Banfield Pet Hospital

Veterinary Assistant

Maple Grove, MN · On-site

$16.79 - $21.46/hr

... vet tech assistance Adhering to hospital standards that keep pets safe, and the treatment areas ... Best-in-Class Student Debt Relief Program (for Full-Time DVMs): At Banfield, we understand the ...

Banfield Pet Hospital

$15.19 - $19.41/hr

... vet tech assistance Adhering to hospital standards that keep pets safe, and the treatment areas ... Best-in-Class Student Debt Relief Program (for Full-Time DVMs): At Banfield, we understand the ...

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All JobsRelief Vet Tech Jobs

Relief Vet Tech information

See salary details

$41.5K

$71.7K

$104K

How much do relief vet tech jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for relief vet tech in the United States is $71,735.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $60,500.00 and $76,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are relief vet techs?

Relief vet techs are veterinary technicians who provide temporary or short-term support to veterinary practices. They fill in for regular staff during absences, busy periods, or staff shortages. Relief vet techs perform many of the same duties as full-time vet techs, such as assisting veterinarians, monitoring anesthesia, and providing patient care. Their flexible schedules allow clinics to maintain high standards of care without disruption. This role is ideal for techs seeking variety and autonomy in their work environments.

What are some common challenges faced by relief veterinary technicians, and how can they prepare for them?

Relief veterinary technicians often work in unfamiliar clinics with different protocols, equipment, and team dynamics. Adapting quickly to each new environment and building rapport with permanent staff can be challenging. To prepare, relief techs should maintain strong communication skills, be adaptable, and familiarize themselves with various clinic workflows. Bringing personal essentials, reviewing assignment details in advance, and staying up-to-date with industry best practices can also help ensure a smooth transition between workplaces.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Relief Vet Tech, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Relief Vet Tech, you need a strong background in animal nursing, laboratory procedures, and veterinary pharmacology, usually supported by a veterinary technician certification or license. Familiarity with veterinary practice management software, diagnostic imaging equipment, and anesthesia machines is commonly required. Excellent communication, adaptability, and problem-solving skills help you integrate quickly into new teams and handle varied clinical situations. These abilities ensure that you can deliver high-quality patient care and support veterinary teams effectively, even in temporary or unfamiliar environments.

What is the difference between Relief Vet Tech vs Veterinary Technician?

AspectRelief Vet TechVeterinary Technician
CredentialsLicensed or certified veterinary technician (varies by state)Licensed or certified veterinary technician (varies by state)
Work EnvironmentTemporary assignments across clinics, hospitals, or sheltersFull-time or part-time employment at a single clinic or hospital
Employer UsageUsed by clinics needing flexible staffingTypically employed directly by a veterinary practice
Common Search/ComparisonRelief Vet Tech vs Veterinary Technician

Relief Vet Techs provide flexible, temporary support across various veterinary settings, often working on short-term assignments. Veterinary Technicians are usually employed full-time or part-time at a specific practice, with consistent responsibilities. Both roles require similar credentials, but Relief Vet Techs offer greater flexibility in work location and schedule.

More about Relief Vet Tech jobs
What cities are hiring for Relief Vet Tech jobs? Cities with the most Relief Vet Tech job openings:
What states have the most Relief Vet Tech jobs? States with the most job openings for Relief Vet Tech jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Relief Vet Tech jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Relief Vet Tech jobs are:
Relief Vet Tech jobs near you
Infographic showing various Relief Vet Tech job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, and 50% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $71,735 per year, or $34.5 per hour.
Veterinary Assistant - Santa Cuz

Veterinary Assistant - Santa Cuz

Banfield Pet Hospital

Santa Cruz, CA

$18.40 - $23.51/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 27 days ago

Banfield Pet Hospital rating

5.9

Company rating: 5.9 out of 10

Based on 520 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

27th of 47 rated veterinary

Job description

If you are a current associate, you will need to apply through our internal career site. Please log into Workday and click on the Jobs Hub app or search for Browse Jobs.

Veterinary Assistant Careers at Banfield Pet Hospital

For those who want to put their love of pets into action, there are few jobs more rewarding than that of Vet Assistant. While working closely with other pet health care professionals at Banfield, you'll have the chance to advocate for pets and educate clients on all aspects of pet health. In addition, if your goal is to advance in your career, you'll have access to a variety of learning and development opportunities along the way.

Job Description Summary:The Veterinary Assistant is a key member of the hospital team who supports and assists the veterinarians and veterinary technicians, ensuring the safety of pets, clients and other associates, and the continuity of quality veterinary care.

Employment Type:Full-Time or Part-Time

Preferred Education/Licenses:Certificate of completion from a NAVTA-approved veterinary assistant program or the equivalent combination of education, training and experience that provides the required knowledge, skills and abilities. High school diploma or equivalent preferred.

Preferred Experience:Must be able to perform all required skills of NAVTA-approved veterinary assistant programs at a level that aids in the efficiency of the practice.

A Day in the Life of a Banfield Veterinary Assistant

The Vet Assistant provides professional, efficient and exceptional service at all times, making sure that clients and pets are comfortable in the hospital. You will use your technical skills on a daily basis, within state practice acts and as outlined in the NAVTA guidelines for veterinary assistant skills and duties. Other responsibilities include:

  • Helping maintain the flow of patients
  • Communicating with the veterinarian and vet techs
  • Carrying out or setting up procedures that do not require veterinarian or vet tech assistance
  • Adhering to hospital standards that keep pets safe, and the treatment areas, exam rooms and labs clean and organized
  • Educating clients about our Optimum Wellness Plans and the importance of preventive care
  • Mentoring other members of the hospital team

Commitment Beyond Qualifications

Every associate including the Vet Assistant has an important contribution to make to the veterinary team. We're looking for Vet Assistants who are dedicated to their work, have a positive attitude and use our Five Principles -- Quality, Responsibility, Mutuality, Efficiency and Freedom - as their guide. In addition, our Vet Assistants are:

  • Action Oriented
  • Customer Focused
  • Good Listeners
  • Effective Communicators

Caring for Those Who Care: Benefits for a Banfield Veterinary Assistant

When it comes to benefits, we support your personal wellness and professional development. We offer a wide range of perks and programs that help you take care of yourself and your family-including your pets.

Personal Health, Savings, and Wellness Benefits

Every team member needs to be appreciated. All Vet Assistants receive a generous benefits package including 401(k) participation, paid time off and Optimum Wellness Plans for your pets. In addition, medical, vision, dental, life and disability insurance is offered to associates based on eligibility.

Potential as Big as Your Passion

Whether you're a new Vet Assistant, have been working for years or are changing careers, we'll support your professional growth with:

  • Performance development plans designed to help you reach your established careers goals
  • Relevant learning opportunities
  • Networking events
  • Ways to offer your skills to your community

A Support Structure That Helps You Thrive

We've created a one-of-a-kind leadership structure throughout our practice that includes support from our Corporate headquarters, the field and hospital level. Together we are a team, making a real impact on pet health care in hospitals, communities and the field of veterinary medicine.

The pay range for this role is

$18.40 - $23.51 Hourly

The pay range listed reflects a general hiring range for the area, with the specific rate determined based on the candidate's experience, skill level, and education, and may vary depending on location or applicable minimum wage laws.

Here at Banfield, we prioritize your well-being and professional growth by offering a comprehensive total rewards package, including health, wellness, and financial support for you, your family, and even your pets. Check out some of our "Meow-velous" benefits:

  • Comprehensive Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance: Enjoy peace of mind knowing your health and wellness are our top priorities. We've got your essential medical, dental, and vision care covered.

  • Generous Retirement Plans (401(k) and Roth): Invest in your future and enjoy a generous company match to help you build a secure financial future.*

  • Best-in-Class Student Debt Relief Program (for Full-Time DVMs): At Banfield, we understand the significant financial burden of student debt on veterinarians. We are committed to supporting our veterinary professionals and believe that addressing student debt is crucial for the long-term health of the veterinary profession.

  • Paid Time Off and Holidays: Take a break, recharge your wellbeing, and celebrate days of personal significance with paid time off and holidays.*

  • Top-Tier Mental Health and Wellbeing Resources: Your mental health matters. Access our industry-leading resources, including free coaching and counseling sessions, to support your overall wellbeing and help you thrive.*

  • Associate Life Insurance (company-paid) & Supplemental Life Insurance: Protect your loved ones with our company-paid Associate life insurance and have the option to purchase additional coverage for extra peace of mind.

  • Company-Paid Short- and Long-Term Disability: Feel secure knowing that if you face a temporary or long-term disability, you'll have financial protection.

  • Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA): Save on healthcare and dependent care expenses by setting aside pre-tax money. It's a smart way to manage your budget and take care of your needs.

  • Health Savings Account (HSA): Make the most of your healthcare dollars with a tax-advantaged HSA, allowing you to pay for medical expenses with pre-tax funds.

  • Paid Parental Leave: We support growing families with paid parental leave for both birth and adoption, giving you precious time to bond with your new family addition.

  • Continuing Education Allowance (for Eligible Positions): Banfield is committed to supporting the professional growth of our Associates. This allowance provides financial assistance to pursue continuing education opportunities.*

  • Back-Up Child and Elder Care & Family Support Resources: When life's unpredictable moments arise, our backup care and family support benefits provide the help you need to keep things running smoothly.*

  • Fertility and Family Building Support: We're here for you on your journey to parenthood, offering comprehensive support for fertility treatments and family-building options.

  • Digital Exercise Therapy: Stay active and healthy with our digital exercise therapy program, designed to fit your busy lifestyle, and keep you moving.

  • Voluntary Protection Benefits: Get peace of mind with protection against the unexpected. You can purchase coverage to help support you financially during hospital stays, critical illness, and accidents.*

  • Legal Plan: Gain extra peace of mind with our affordable and accessible legal plan which includes coverage for a wide range of legal needs.*

  • Identity Protection: Identity Protection helps safeguard your personal information by alerting you to suspicious activity and providing support if your information is stolen.*

  • Commuter Benefits: Say goodbye to commuting stress with our commuter benefits, making your daily journey more convenient and cost-effective.*

  • Three Free Optimum Wellness Plans for Pets: We care about your furry friends too! Enjoy three free wellness plans to ensure your pets receive the best preventive and general care.*

  • Exclusive Discounts: Unlock a world of savings with our wide variety of exclusive discounts on products and services, making life more affordable and enjoyable.*

Benefits eligibility is based on employment status. Full-time (FT) Associates are eligible for all benefit programs (Student Debt Program available for FT DVMs only); Part-time Associates are eligible for those benefits with an asterisk (*).

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