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Surgical Vet Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Paws in Motion

Surgical Vet Technician

Harrisburg, PA · On-site

This role is ideal for someone who enjoys both surgical nursing and helping patients through their recovery journey. Full-time preferred, but part-time opportunities are available for the right ...

My Pet's Vet - Buford

Vet Assistant

Buford, GA · On-site

$14.25 - $18/hr

Set up and breakdown before/after surgery * Unload inventory * Assist in taking digital x-rays * Work closely with our Vet Techs and Doctors for x-rays procedures Qualifications and Skills

My Pet's Vet - Summerville

Vet Assistant

Summerville, SC

$14.25 - $17.75/hr

My Pet's Vet in Summerville, SC is looking for a CSR/ Vet Assistant with growth opportunities at ... Set up and clean up before/after surgery * Unload inventory * Assists in taking digital x-rays

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$49.5K

$165.5K

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How much do surgical vet jobs pay per year?

As of May 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for surgical vet in the United States is $165,527.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $112,000.00 and $218,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Surgical Veterinarian, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Surgical Veterinarian, you need a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) degree, state licensure, and advanced knowledge of animal anatomy and surgical procedures. Familiarity with anesthesia machines, surgical instruments, radiology equipment, and specialized veterinary software is essential. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication with pet owners and veterinary teams are crucial soft skills. These competencies are vital for ensuring successful surgical outcomes, animal safety, and high-quality client service in veterinary practice.

What are some common challenges faced by Surgical Vets when working in a fast-paced clinical environment?

Surgical Vets often encounter challenges such as managing a high caseload, making quick yet accurate decisions during emergencies, and maintaining precise communication with veterinary technicians and pet owners. Balancing surgical responsibilities with pre- and post-operative care can be demanding, especially when unexpected complications arise. Collaborating closely with the veterinary team and staying organized are essential for delivering the best patient outcomes and managing stress in a fast-paced setting.

What are surgical vets?

Surgical vets, or veterinary surgeons, are veterinarians who specialize in performing surgical procedures on animals. They diagnose conditions that require surgery, conduct operations ranging from routine spaying and neutering to complex orthopedic or soft tissue surgeries, and provide post-operative care. These professionals work in animal hospitals, clinics, or specialty veterinary centers, and often collaborate with other veterinary specialists to ensure the best outcomes for their animal patients.

What is the difference between Surgical Vet vs Veterinary Technician?

AspectSurgical VetVeterinary Technician
CredentialsVeterinary Degree, Licensure, Surgical CertificationAssociate Degree in Veterinary Technology, Certification
Work EnvironmentPerforming surgeries, diagnosing, and treating animals in clinics or hospitalsAssisting in surgeries, preparing animals, and supporting veterinarians
Employer & Industry UsageVeterinary clinics, animal hospitals, specialty surgical centersVeterinary clinics, hospitals, research facilities

While both Surgical Vets and Veterinary Technicians work closely in animal healthcare, Surgical Vets perform surgeries and diagnose conditions, requiring advanced degrees and licensure. Veterinary Technicians assist during surgeries and handle animal care tasks, supporting the veterinarian. Their roles complement each other in veterinary settings, but Surgical Vets hold more advanced responsibilities and credentials.

What cities are hiring for Surgical Vet jobs? Cities with the most Surgical Vet job openings:
What states have the most Surgical Vet jobs? States with the most job openings for Surgical Vet jobs include:
Surgical Vet jobs near you

Surgical Vet Technician

Paws in Motion

Harrisburg, PA • On-site

Full-time, Part-time

Posted 19 days ago

Job description

Join Our Dynamic Rehab Department at Animal Hospital of Dauphin County!


Paws in Motion- Harrisburg, PA

Schedule: 2 full 12-hour shifts and 2 shorter 8-hour shifts each week

Pay: $18-23/hr (based on experience)

Our Rehabilitation Department (Paws in Motion) is seeking an experienced Veterinary Surgical Technician to support our specialty orthopedic and rehabilitation patients. This role is ideal for someone who enjoys both surgical nursing and helping patients through their recovery journey. Full-time preferred, but part-time opportunities are available for the right candidate.


Why You’ll Love This Role:

  • Specialty Orthopedic Focus: Work closely with orthopedic surgery and rehabilitation cases from surgery through recovery.
  • Advanced Technical Skills: Utilize your knowledge of mild sedation procedures and full anesthetic monitoring in a specialty setting.
  • Hands-On Variety: Assist with surgical procedures, post-operative care, therapeutic exercises, and rehabilitation treatments.
  • Meaningful Patient Impact: Play an important role in helping pets regain mobility, strength, and quality of life.
  • Supportive Team Environment: Collaborate with a dedicated rehab and specialty care team passionate about patient outcomes.

What You’ll Be Doing:

  • Preparing and monitoring patients for mild sedation and full anesthetic procedures.
  • Assisting veterinarians during orthopedic and specialty procedures.
  • Monitoring patients throughout anesthesia and recovery.
  • Supporting post-operative rehabilitation treatments and recovery plans.
  • Assisting with therapeutic exercises and operation of rehab equipment including underwater treadmills (UWTM), E-stim, and low-level laser therapy.
  • Maintaining anesthesia, treatment, and rehabilitation records.
  • Keeping treatment and surgical areas clean, organized, and stocked.
  • Educating clients on recovery expectations and home care instructions.

What We’re Looking For:

  • Veterinary Surgical Technician experience preferred.
  • Strong anesthesia monitoring and sedation experience required.
  • Interest or experience in rehabilitation and orthopedic patient care is a plus.
  • Ability to thrive in a fast-paced specialty environment.
  • Compassionate patient care and strong communication skills.

Schedule & Flexibility:

Schedule: Work-life balance is key! Enjoy a steady rhythm with 2 full 12-hour shifts and 2 shorter 8-hour shifts each week.- No holidays or weekends

  • Full-time preferred, but part-time schedules may be available for qualified candidates.


If you’re passionate about anesthesia, surgical nursing, and helping orthopedic patients recover and thrive, we’d love to hear from you!