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Vet Tech Assistant Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

... assist clinicians and pathologists with data retrieval. * Prepare and package specimens for ... Train veterinary students, veterinary technicians, vet tech students, residents, and new employees ...

... assist clinicians and pathologists with data retrieval. * Prepare and package specimens for ... Train veterinary students, veterinary technicians, vet tech students, residents, and new employees ...

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Vet Tech Assistant information

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How much do vet tech assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for vet tech assistant in Iowa is $16.57, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.47 and $18.27 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Can I be a vet assistant with no experience?

Vet tech assistant positions often do not require prior experience, as on-the-job training is common. However, having basic knowledge of animal care, good communication skills, and a willingness to learn can improve your chances of obtaining the role. Some employers may prefer or require certification or relevant coursework in animal handling or veterinary assisting.

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 does a veterinary tech assistant do?

A veterinary tech assistant supports veterinary staff by handling tasks such as cleaning animal enclosures, preparing equipment, assisting with animal restraint, and providing basic care. They often work under the supervision of a licensed veterinary technician or veterinarian and may perform clerical duties or help with patient intake. This role requires good animal handling skills and knowledge of veterinary procedures.

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.

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.

Can you live off being a vet assistant?

Vet tech assistants typically earn a modest salary that may not be sufficient as a sole income for a household. Many work part-time or combine multiple jobs, and additional certifications or experience can lead to higher pay. It is generally considered a entry-level position in the veterinary field with limited earning potential on its own.

What pays more, vet tech or vet assistant?

Veterinary technicians typically earn higher wages than veterinary assistants due to their advanced training and certification requirements. Vet techs often have an associate degree and perform more complex medical tasks, which can lead to higher pay. Salaries vary by location and experience but generally, vet techs have a higher earning potential than vet assistants.

What are Vet Tech Assistants?

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 most commonly searched types of Vet Tech jobs in Iowa? The most popular types of Vet Tech jobs in Iowa are:
What cities in Iowa are hiring for Vet Tech Assistant jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Vet Tech Assistant job openings:
Infographic showing various Vet Tech Assistant job openings in Iowa as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $34,459 per year, or $16.6 per hour.
Vet Tech I Temporary - Large Animal Intensive Care Unit

Vet Tech I Temporary - Large Animal Intensive Care Unit

Iowa State University

Ames, IA • On-site

Part-time

Posted 14 days ago


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 612 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Position Title:
Vet Tech I Temporary - Large Animal Intensive Care Unit
Job Group:
Merit
Required Minimum Qualifications:
• Associate or Bachelor's degree in a veterinary technology program accredited by the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) or the Canadian Veterinary Medical Association (CVMA), and • Registered, licensed, or certified as a veterinary technician within one year of the start date.
Job Description:
Job Description:
AtIowa State University's Lloyd Veterinary Medical Center (LVMC), you'll work alongside a collaborative team of experts dedicated to excellence in diagnosis, treatment, and education-while making a meaningful impact on the future of veterinary medicine.
Under the direction and supervision of a licensed veterinarian, this position provides advanced care for ill and injured equine and farm animal patients. The technician supports a wide range of medical and surgical procedures and plays an integral role in a dynamic teaching environment that includes veterinary students, interns, and residents.
This role offers the opportunity to work with a diverse population of large animal species in a fast-paced hospital setting, contributing to high-quality patient care, efficient hospital operations, and hands-on clinical training.
Under the direction and supervision of a licensed Veterinarian, provides intermediate care for ill and injured animal patients or animals used in a research or hospital setting. May perform veterinary care, animal husbandry, and basic technical skills with fourth-year veterinary students. Provides assistance to students, Veterinarians, and investigative staff in their treatment of animals, teaching, or research functions. Position operates within standard guidelines and alternatives that are known, and any deviation from such requires prior approval. Guidance and mentorship can be provided by Veterinary Technician II or III.
Characteristic Duties and Responsibilities
• Assists with basic nursing care on American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) physical status classification level I and II patients, which are considered healthy or with mild systemic disease. Nursing care to include but not limited to: monitoring body functions (temperature, respiration, heartbeat, amount and frequency of food consumptions, defecation, urination etc.) and noting abnormalities; placing and maintaining intravenous catheters; administering fluids and medications orally, parenterally, and enterally; and performing other basic treatments.
• Collects and processes samples for research, diagnostic, and clinical purposes.
• Assists with basic preparatory procedures on various animal species and assists staff members in surgical, medical, or laboratory procedure preparation, including instrument and supply set up.
• Administers anesthesia and monitors patient response through the recovery period for ASA I-II patients.
• Maintains orderly and sanitary work areas for clinical, teaching, and research facilities.
• Stocks and organizes patient exam rooms, treatment areas, holding areas and operating rooms.
• May assist with entering hospital costs and medical records into the computer to create accurate records for billing accounts.
• Assists with set up, inventory, maintenance, security, and repairs for equipment and instruments used in surgical procedures, emergencies and/or lab sessions.
• Utilizes ultrasound machines and x-rays, assist with MRI, or other related imaging equipment for patient diagnostics.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
• Knowledge of animal health and welfare - animal isolation, sample collection, medical treatment, nursing and monitoring, pre & post-surgical requirements including room and supply preparation.
• Knowledge of pharmacology - dosage, calculations, and usage.
• Knowledge of animal husbandry - animal feeding, watering, grooming, handling, safe transporting, and environmental requirements.
• Knowledge of record maintenance - collecting and recording data.
• Knowledge of trimming, clipping, or grooming animals.
• Knowledge of teaching and/or demonstration of safe animal handling.
• Knowledge of regulatory requirements (Animal Welfare Act, Public Health Service, etc.).
• Ability to handle, restrain, move, load, and unload animals.
• Ability to administer medication - topical, injectable, oral, and rectal.
• Ability to check and interpret vital signs.
• Ability to lift, carry, push, or pull up to 70 pounds.
• Ability to instruct and demonstrate veterinary techniques in handling, grooming, and nursing animals.
• Ability to interact in a professional capacity.
• Ability to multi-task and work cooperatively with others.
• Ability to prioritize daily tasks.
• Ability to work in high stress environments.
• Knowledge of computers, computerized medical record systems, and word processing software, such as Microsoft Word and Excel.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience with restraining animals.
  • Experience working in veterinary setting.
  • Prior experience with large animals

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.
To apply for this position, please click on "Apply" and complete the Employment Application. Please be prepared to enter or attach the following:
1) Resume/Curriculum Vitae
2) 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:
April 27, 2027
Number of Months Employed Per Year:
12 Month Work Period
Time Type:
Part time
Pay Grade:
7601a
Original Posting Date:
April 14, 2026
Posting Close Date:
Job Requisition Number:
R18988
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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