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Vet Tech Assistant Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

National Veterinary Associates

$14.50 - $18.25/hr

Well come join our family as our new Hospital Assistant! Whether you're an experienced CSR, a ... Whether you're a vet, tech, or support staff, this is your chance to grow with a team that ...

Virginia Tech

Patient Care Vet Assistant

Blacksburg, VA

$14.25 - $19.50/hr

Patient Care Vet Assistant Apply now Back to search results Job no: 536878 Work type: Hourly Wage ... About Virginia Tech Dedicated to its motto, Ut Prosim (That I May Serve), Virginia Tech pushes the ...

Banfield Pet Hospital

Veterinary Assistant

Alexandria, VA · On-site

$18.40 - $23.51/hr

... or vet tech assistance • Adhering to hospital standards that keep pets safe, and the treatment ... Assistant Learn more about the impact you can make as part of a Banfield hospital team and see how ...

Banfield Pet Hospital

Veterinary Assistant

Sterling, VA · On-site

$18.40 - $23.51/hr

Veterinary Assistant Careers at Banfield Pet Hospital of Sterling! We are looking for weekend ... vet tech assistance Adhering to hospital standards that keep pets safe, and the treatment areas ...

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Vet Tech Assistant information

See Virginia salary details

$10

$17

$23

How much do vet tech assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for vet tech assistant in Virginia is $17.49, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.24 and $19.33 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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.

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.

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.

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 or equivalent can improve job prospects. Certification is not always required but can enhance employment opportunities and responsibilities.

What are the most commonly searched types of Vet Tech jobs in Virginia?

The most popular types of Vet Tech jobs in Virginia are:

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Vet Tech Assistant jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Vet Tech Assistant job openings:

Vet Tech Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Vet Tech Assistant job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, and 20% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $36,373 per year, or $17.5 per hour.

Veterinary Assistant

National Veterinary Associates

Troutville, VA

$14.25 - $17.75/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 29 days ago

Job description

The veterinary assistant is the entire team's primary support. Every department relies on their significant role in aiding with a variety of services to provide excellent client and patient care.

Job Description Overview:

. Assist with patient care and treatment

. Monitor hospitalized pets / Monitor/aid in caring for animals after surgery

. Maintain inventory and stocking

. Restrain animals during blood draws and nail trims

Aiding with routine diagnostic tests (i.e. Taking radiographs, running bloodwork, reading fecal)

Maintain & sterilize surgical instruments/equipment

Clean/Disinfect cages, kennels, exam and treatment areas of hospital

Administering medications under Veterinarian/Vet Tech supervision

Feeding/bathing animals

Answering phones

Customer service

Helping clients with their pets

Qualifications:

Must be 18yrs old or older

Must be a self-starter, able to multitask and a team player.

Genuinely enjoys working with animals and is able to deal with them even when they are stressed, ill or in pain.

Prefer 1+ years of experience, but not required.

Ability to meet the physical demands of the job. Work requires lifting, carrying and restraining animals (will be assisted by other staff members in lifting animals over 40 lbs.). Should be able to lift 40lbs on own.

. Walks or stands for extended periods or time; frequently works in a bent or squatting position.

. Is experienced in the teamwork approach and works well with all levels of hospital team members.

If you are passionate about animals and are interested in joining a team of highly devoted animal advocates, our hospital may be the right fit for you.

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About NVA

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Nashville Veterinary Specialists + Animal Emergency (NVS) is a veterinary specialty and emergency hospital group with two locations in Nashville and Clarksville, Tennessee. Our Mission and primary focus is to honor the human-animal bond in all we do, focusing on patient care, client experience, and the health of our team. We believe we can never stop improving and strive to improve in all we do. Not only do we focus on patient care, but core to our hospital culture is also a focus on the health of our team, our community, and the environment. We are committed to sustainable environmental practices. NVS works in partnership with National Veterinary Associates-Compassion-First (NVA C-F). NVA-CF is the largest private owner of freestanding veterinary hospitals in North America with over 1400 locations worldwide.

Headquarters location

Agoura Hills, CA, US

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