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Student Veterinary Assistant Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Veterinary Technician

Ames, IA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Veterinary Technician Job Group:Merit Required Minimum Qualifications: • Associate or Bachelor ... Current employees (excluding temporary, student and graduate assistants) must apply through the ...

Veterinary Technician

Ames, IA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... and assist with patient diagnostics, procedures, and other necessary treatments. Instruct and demonstrate veterinary care and technical skills to 4th-year veterinary students. The successful ...

Veterinary Technician

Ames, IA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... and assist with patient diagnostics, procedures, and other necessary treatments. Instruct and demonstrate veterinary care and technical skills to 4th-year veterinary students. The successful ...

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Student Veterinary Assistant information

See Iowa salary details

$6

$15

$22

How much do student veterinary assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for student veterinary assistant in Iowa is $15.56, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.75 and $17.40 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a student veterinary assistant?

A Student Veterinary Assistant supports veterinarians and veterinary technicians in animal care facilities, such as clinics or hospitals. They assist with handling animals, cleaning equipment, maintaining patient records, and providing basic care under supervision. This role offers hands-on experience for students pursuing a career in veterinary medicine. It helps develop essential skills in animal handling, medical procedures, and client communication.

What does a student veterinary assistant do?

As a Student Veterinary Assistant, your daily responsibilities commonly include assisting veterinarians and technicians with animal exams, preparing exam rooms, handling and restraining animals, and performing basic cleaning and sterilization duties. You may also help with weighing pets, updating medical records, and providing support during minor procedures or treatments. The work environment is typically fast-paced and collaborative, requiring you to interact with other team members and pet owners. This hands-on experience not only builds essential veterinary skills but also provides valuable insight into clinic operations and teamwork in a veterinary setting.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a student veterinary assistant?

To thrive as a Student Veterinary Assistant, you need a foundational understanding of animal care, attention to detail, and the ability to follow veterinary protocols, typically gained through coursework or on-the-job training. Familiarity with basic lab equipment, animal restraint techniques, and veterinary software systems is valuable. Strong communication, empathy, and teamwork skills help you effectively support veterinarians and comfort pet owners. These competencies ensure safe, efficient clinic operations and a positive experience for both clients and animals.

Is it hard to get a job as a student veterinary assistant?

Securing a position as a student veterinary assistant can be competitive, as many employers seek candidates with basic animal care skills and a willingness to learn. Gaining relevant experience, such as volunteering or taking related courses, can improve chances of employment. Availability for flexible hours and a strong work ethic are also important factors.

What cities in Iowa are hiring for Student Veterinary Assistant jobs?

Cities in Iowa with the most Student Veterinary Assistant job openings:

Veterinary Teaching Hospital Assistant II

Iowa State University

Ames, IA • On-site

$15.50 - $19.25/hr

Part-time

Posted yesterday

New


Iowa State University rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 86 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

384th of 619 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Position Title:Veterinary Teaching Hospital Assistant IIJob Group:MeritRequired Minimum Qualifications: Customer service or receptionist experience which totals two years. Knowledge of medical terminology or animal disease symptoms, or, Post high school education that provides the knowledge and skills to perform the job duties. Data entry skills.Job Description:

Summary of Duties and Responsibilities:

Are you passionate about animals and providing outstanding customer service? Do you thrive in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment where every day brings new challenges and opportunities to make a difference? If so, we want YOU to join our veterinary hospital team as a Large AnimalVeterinary Teaching Hospital Assistant II!

Hours:The position requires working Monday through Friday from 6:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Some holiday shifts will also be required.

Why You'll Love This Position:

  • Meaningful Work:Help clients navigate their pet's care journey and play a vital role in their health and happiness.
  • Team Atmosphere:Collaborate with skilled doctors, students, and support staff in a positive and supportive environment.
  • Exciting Responsibilities:Take on important tasks such as client communication, administrative duties, and service coordination to keep every day engaging.
  • Fast-Paced Energy:Stay active and focused in a role that keeps you on your toes with 200+ calls a day and a variety of tasks to accomplish.

KeyJobDuties

Customer Service/Client Communication

  • Welcome clients and update patient information in the hospital database.
  • Schedule appointments, handle emergencies, and provide detailed instructions for visits.
  • Explain hospital policies, payment procedures, and consent requirements.
  • Manage high call volumes, transfer calls to appropriate departments, and address client inquiries.
  • Collect deposits for inpatient care and explain credit and billing policies.

Administrative Tasks

  • Manage communications for faculty, students, and staff.
  • Train and supervise students in office procedures and medical record handling.
  • Support doctors and students by providing access to client records, contact details, and visit history.

Service Coordination

  • Organize and maintain medical records.
  • Deliver food, supplies, and lab samples.
  • Prepare and send out billing statements and other client communications.
  • Maintain the reception area with necessary forms and supplies.
  • Sort and distribute mail and assist with database updates.

Join us and be part of a team that makes a real difference in the lives of animals and their families. Apply today to become aVeterinary Teaching Hospital Assistantand start a career you'll be proud of!

Required Minimum Qualifications:

  • Customer service or receptionist experience totaling two years.
  • Knowledge of medical terminology or animal disease symptoms, or post-high school education that provides the knowledge and skills to perform the job duties.
  • Data entry skills.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Prior receptionist experience within a large or small animal clinic.
  • Customer service experience in high-volume or fast-paced environments.
  • Experience with payment processing, invoicing and/or bookkeeping.
  • Familiarity with scheduling systems or client management software.
  • Associate's degree or coursework in veterinary technology, animal science, or related field.

Department/Program & College Description:

The Lloyd Veterinary Medical Center at Iowa State University is a premier veterinary teaching hospital providing expert specialty, emergency, and routine care for small and large animals while supporting veterinary education, research, and outreach

Department Unit/Website:
Home - Lloyd Veterinary Medical Center

Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the U.S. on an ongoing basis without sponsorship. Immigration sponsorship is not available for this position.

Application Instructions:
To apply for this position, please click on "Apply" and complete the Employment Application. Please be prepared to enter or attach the following:

Resume/Curriculum Vitae

Letter of Application/Cover Letter


If you have questions regarding this application process, please email employment@iastate.edu, or call 515-294-4800 or Toll Free: 1-877-477-7485.

Appointment Type:Temporary (Fixed Term)Proposed End Date or Length of Term:March 1, 2027Number of Months Employed Per Year:Time Type:Part timePay Grade:08Original Posting Date:August 17, 2026Posting Close Date:August 27, 2026Job Requisition Number:R19780

Iowa State University does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, age, ethnicity, religion, national origin, pregnancy, sexual orientation, genetic information, sex, marital status, disability, or status as a U.S. Veteran. Inquiries regarding non-discrimination policies may be directed to Office of Equal Opportunity, 2680 Beardshear Hall, 515 Morrill Road, Ames, Iowa 50011, Tel. 515-294-7612, email eooffice@iastate.edu.

General ISU compensation information can be found on the University Human Resources website. Please note that this is only a list of ranges and individuals will be paid commensurate with qualifications.


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