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Vet Tech Assistant Jobs in Alberta (NOW HIRING)

Operate equipment and technology tools in assigned area of the production facility, learning and ... Equal Opportunity Employer, including Disability/Vet. At Cargill, we are committed to building a ...

Operate equipment and technology tools in assigned area of the production facility, learning and ... EqualOpportunity Employer, including Disability/Vet. At Cargill, we are committed to building a ...

Vet Tech Assistant information

See Alberta salary details

$6

$12

$17

How much do vet tech assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for vet tech assistant in Alberta is $12.10, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $10.10 and $14.90 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a vet tech assistant?

Vet Tech Assistants, also known as Veterinary Assistant Technicians, support veterinarians and veterinary technicians in animal clinics, hospitals, and shelters. Their duties often include feeding, bathing, and exercising animals, cleaning kennels, sterilizing equipment, and assisting during examinations or procedures. They play a crucial role in the day-to-day operations of veterinary facilities by ensuring animals are comfortable and that the clinic runs smoothly. Vet Tech Assistants do not diagnose conditions or perform surgeries but provide essential support to the veterinary team. This role is ideal for those who love animals and are interested in starting a career in veterinary care.

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

To thrive as a Vet Tech Assistant, you need a basic understanding of animal care, handling, and health, typically demonstrated by a high school diploma and on-the-job training or a veterinary assistant certification. Familiarity with animal restraint techniques, medical terminology, and basic veterinary software is often required. Compassion, attention to detail, and strong communication skills help Vet Tech Assistants excel when supporting veterinarians and reassuring pet owners. These abilities ensure animal safety, efficient clinic operations, and positive experiences for both clients and their pets.

What are some common challenges vet tech assistants face when supporting veterinarians during procedures?

Vet Tech Assistants often encounter challenges such as managing anxious or aggressive animals, maintaining a calm demeanor during emergencies, and ensuring that all tools and equipment are properly sterilized and prepared. The fast-paced environment requires quick thinking, adaptability, and excellent communication skills to effectively support veterinarians and ensure the safety of both patients and staff. Building strong organizational skills and developing a good rapport with both animals and team members can help overcome these challenges and make the work more rewarding.

What is the difference between Vet Tech Assistant vs Vet Technician?

AspectVet Tech AssistantVet Technician
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; on-the-job trainingAssociate's degree in veterinary technology; certification often required
Work EnvironmentAssist veterinarians with basic tasks, handle animal care, and clerical dutiesPerform more complex medical procedures, assist in surgeries, and diagnose
Employer & Industry UsageVeterinary clinics, animal hospitals, sheltersVeterinary clinics, hospitals, research facilities

In summary, Vet Tech Assistants typically have less formal education and focus on supporting veterinarians with basic animal care and clerical tasks. Vet Technicians have specialized training, certification, and perform more advanced medical procedures, making them more involved in diagnostics and treatment.

Can I be a vet tech assistant with no experience?

Vet tech assistants typically do not need prior experience, as on-the-job training is common. However, having basic knowledge of animal care, good communication skills, and a high school diploma can improve job prospects. Some employers may prefer or require certification or coursework in animal handling or veterinary assisting.

Where do vet tech assistants make the most money?

Vet tech assistants tend to earn higher wages in regions with a higher cost of living and greater demand for veterinary services, such as urban areas or states with a strong veterinary industry. Salaries can also increase with experience, certifications, and working in specialty clinics or emergency hospitals.
Infographic showing various Vet Tech Assistant job openings in Alberta as of August 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 $25,173 per year, or $12.1 per hour.

Registered Veterinary Technologist, Marda Loop Animal Hospital

VCA Animal Hospitals

Calgary, AB

Full-time

Medical, PTO

Re-posted 25 days ago


VCA Animal Hospitals rating

6.2

Company rating: 6.2 out of 10

Based on 660 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

27th of 52 rated veterinary


Job description

Registered Veterinary TechnologistLocation: Calgary, ABRole: Veterinary Technician, Registered Veterinary Technician, Registered Veterinary Technologist, RVT, Vet Tech

Marda Loop Animal Hospital is welcoming a Registered Veterinary Technologist to join our team of skilled veterinary professionals. While our network is large, we still offer that local community feeling, mentorship, and additional training!

  • Have completed a Veterinary Technologist or Animal Health Technologist program.

  • New graduates with knowledge of physical examinations, patient assessment, catheter placement, anesthesia monitoring, radiology, venipuncture, and pharmacy - welcome to apply! We love growing new graduates!

  • Surgical preparation, assisting and patient recovery.

  • Ability to keep detailed and accurate patient records.

  • Compassionate care for our hospitalized patients and their pet parents

  • Ability to manage multiple priorities simultaneously.

  • Ability to problem-solve or the ability to ask clarifying questions to help you find solutions.

  • Exceptional interpersonal skills in working with your colleagues and pet parents.

  • Passion to learn more within the role.

  • A love for all companion animals!!

About Us: Marda Loop Animal Hospital is a multi-disciplinary extended-hours practice that has been providing veterinary care in Calgary for over two decades!

Preparing to write your VTNE? We can help!

What VCA Canada Offers

  • RRSP Employer Group Match Program! Saving for your future just got easier with VCA Canada

  • VCA Canada Student Loan RRSP Program - Ask us more!

  • Medical Library; 2000+ journals, 600+ textbooks, research, and more at your fingertips!

  • A caring culture of Wellness and Appreciation!

  • Ask us about our mobilization and hands-free radiology!

  • Paid membership and dues

  • Paid wellness days, sick days, and vacation time

  • Employee assistance program

  • Continuing education benefits; paid to learn!

  • Exceptional career development: there is room to grow here!

  • Referral Bonus Rewards!

  • E-tools to assist with meditation, better sleep, exercise, and focus

  • Virtual health care (telemedicine) offering quick access to quality care

  • Access to amazing mini-courses

  • Opportunities to give back to your community through VCA initiatives

  • Annual uniform allowance

  • Generous personal pet care discounts

  • And extra perks like shopping discounts and cool wellness apps!

Our Story

VCA Canada is a network of veterinary hospitals, with our head office in Calgary, Alberta, committed to positively impacting pets, people, and local communities for nearly 45 years. We have compassion for the neighbourhoods we serve and every pet within them, not just those we see in our hospitals. Every VCA Canada hospital location takes pride in its legacy of excellence, earning the trust of pet owners by delivering the highest quality of medicine to keep pets happy and healthy.
In 2017, VCA Canada became part of the Mars Veterinary Health family of brands, solidifying an even stronger commitment to ensuring the strength and stability of the veterinary profession and our commitment to pet parents nationwide. VCA Canada is also passionate about providing an industry-leading Associate experience to over 4,000 Canadians employed across the country. In 2026, for the third year in a row, we were named one of Alberta's Top Employers, which recognizes organizations whose head offices are located within the province and lead their industries in offering exceptional places to work. Additionally,we were selected as one of Canada's Top Employers for Young People 2026, which recognizes employers across Canada that lead their industries in offering exceptional places to work and programs for young people starting their careers.

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


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