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Veterinary Assistant Externship Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Schwarzman Animal Medical Center

$17.30 - $22/hr

Clinics Veterinary Assistants play a vital role at the Schwarzman Animal Medical Center. They work ... externship hours for accredited veterinary technology programs. We are currently offering a ...

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Veterinary Assistant Externship information

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How much do veterinary assistant externship jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for veterinary assistant externship in the United States is $17.24, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.14 and $18.99 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a veterinary assistant externship?

A Veterinary Assistant Externship is a temporary, hands-on training program designed for students or individuals interested in becoming veterinary assistants. During the externship, participants work under the supervision of veterinary professionals to gain practical experience in animal care, assisting with procedures, and learning about veterinary clinic operations. Externships are typically unpaid, but they provide valuable exposure to real-world veterinary settings and can be a stepping stone to a career in veterinary medicine. Most programs require participants to observe, assist with basic tasks, and sometimes interact with clients and patients. Completing an externship can also help build a professional network and strengthen a resume.

What types of hands-on experiences can I expect during a veterinary assistant externship?

During a Veterinary Assistant Externship, you'll typically assist with animal handling, support veterinarians and technicians during exams and procedures, and help with routine tasks such as cleaning kennels and preparing equipment. You may also observe surgeries, learn about medical recordkeeping, and interact with clients under supervision. This role offers an excellent opportunity to gain practical skills, work within a team, and see firsthand how a veterinary clinic operates day-to-day.

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

To thrive as a Veterinary Assistant Extern, you need basic animal care knowledge, strong observational skills, and a high school diploma or equivalent, often with enrollment in a veterinary program. Familiarity with veterinary clinic software, animal handling equipment, and sanitation protocols is typically required. Compassion, teamwork, and effective communication are critical soft skills that help build trust with clients and support the veterinary team. These skills and qualities are vital for ensuring animal welfare, maintaining a safe work environment, and contributing to efficient clinic operations.

What is the difference between Veterinary Assistant Externship vs Veterinary Technician?

AspectVeterinary Assistant ExternshipVeterinary Technician
CredentialsTypically no formal certification required; may be part of a training programRequires graduation from an AVMA-accredited veterinary technology program and passing the VTNE exam
Work EnvironmentAnimal clinics, shelters, or hospitals; supervised by licensed veterinarians or techniciansMore advanced clinical tasks; working alongside veterinarians in clinics and hospitals
Job ResponsibilitiesAssisting with animal restraint, cleaning, basic patient carePerforming diagnostic tests, anesthesia, surgical assisting, and client communication

The Veterinary Assistant Externship provides hands-on experience for those interested in veterinary support roles, focusing on basic animal care and assisting veterinarians. In contrast, Veterinary Technicians have completed formal education and certification, enabling them to perform more complex clinical tasks. Both roles are essential in veterinary settings, but the technician role involves a higher level of responsibility and expertise.

Can I be a veterinary assistant externship with no experience?

Veterinary assistant externships often do not require prior experience, as they are designed to provide hands-on training and skill development. However, some programs may prefer or require basic knowledge of animal care or related coursework. Applicants should demonstrate a willingness to learn and may need to complete certain prerequisites or certifications depending on the program.

How do veterinary assistant externships work?

Veterinary assistant externships are structured programs where students or entry-level assistants gain hands-on experience in veterinary clinics under supervision. They typically involve observing procedures, assisting with basic tasks, and developing skills related to animal care and clinic operations, often for academic credit or professional development. Externships usually have set schedules and may require prior training or certifications in animal handling or safety protocols.

How to find a veterinary assistant externship?

To find a veterinary assistant externship, search through veterinary clinics, animal hospitals, or pet care facilities that offer externship or internship programs. Check their websites or contact them directly to inquire about available opportunities, requirements, and application procedures. Having relevant skills such as animal handling and basic medical knowledge can improve your chances of securing an externship.
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What states have the most Veterinary Assistant Externship jobs?

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Veterinary Assistant Externship jobs near you
Infographic showing various Veterinary Assistant Externship job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 21% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,859 per year, or $17.2 per hour.

Veterinary Assistant Externship

Goddard, KS • On-site

TANGANYIKA WILDLIFE PARK LLC
Travel Arrangement Services • 11 - 50 employees
Learn more about TANGANYIKA WILDLIFE PARK LLCexternal

$15.75 - $19.50/hr

Other

Posted 18 days ago

Job description

Craft WOW Moments. Inspire Action. Drive Conservation.
At Tanganyika Wildlife Park, we go beyond caring for animals. We create once-in-a-lifetime experiences that make you say "WOW". Inspiring generations to become conservation champions.
If you're passionate about animals, driven by purpose, and believe that one moment can change a life then this is where you belong.
Why Tanganyika?
A Front Row Seat to Conservation in Action
We're not a zoo. We're an experience. At Tanganyika, you'll be part of a team pioneering interactive conservation experiences that educate, engage, and empower. We do conservation a bit different our focus is conservation one person at a time. Making people aware of the species, getting them interested, and then calling them to action.
Work That Gives You Goosebumps
From helping a toddler feed a giraffe for the first time to guiding a training session with a curious lemur, your job here is anything but ordinary. This is the kind of place where work and wonder collide.
Real Growth. Real Mentorship. Real Impact.
Whether you're starting your career or seeking your next challenge, Tanganyika invests in you. We care about you beyond the workplace with initiatives to help our team reduce their consumer debt to an employee assistance program to our Dream Manager program, we want you to become the best YOU.
A Culture That Cares-For Animals and Humans
We lead with love, and it shows. Our team is fiercely supportive, deeply passionate, and united by a shared purpose. And yes, your "co-workers" might include sloths, rhinos, and porcupines.
Purpose That Reaches Beyond the Park
Every moment you create here fuels a global mission. Whether it's supporting field conservation projects or inspiring a child to become a future biologist, your work leaves a legacy.
Tanganyika Wildlife Park offers a Veterinary Assistant Externship for individuals interested in gaining short-term experience in zoological and exotic animal medicine. This opportunity provides exposure to veterinary care in a zoological setting and allows participants to learn about the collaborative roles of veterinarians, veterinary assistants, animal care staff, and other members of the animal care team.
What You'll Experience
Depending on the needs of the veterinary team and the animals in our care, externs may have the opportunity to:
  • Shadow veterinary staff during medical procedures, examinations, and routine veterinary care
  • Observe clinical diagnostics, surgical preparation, and treatment protocols
  • Assist with data collection related to animal behavior, health parameters, and medical records
  • Support enrichment, feeding, and husbandry routines under supervision
  • Gain exposure to species-specific care techniques and zoological veterinary protocols
  • Learn about the day-to-day responsibilities of a veterinary team working with exotic and zoological species

This externship offers limited hands-on experience, including opportunities to assist with husbandry and medical behaviors under the direction of Tanganyika's veterinary and animal care teams.
Commitment
  • Minimum commitment: 16 hours
  • Scheduling: Full-day and half-day opportunities are available
  • Duration: Externship length can vary based on the participant's goals and availability
  • Compensation: This is an unpaid educational externship opportunity.

Who Should Apply?
This opportunity is ideal for individuals interested in:
  • Zoological or exotic animal medicine
  • Veterinary assisting
  • Zoo animal care
  • Veterinary medicine
  • Animal behavior and husbandry

Apply at https://tanganyikawildlifeparkllc.easyapply.co/
If you have any issues applying please email creese@twpark.com for assistance.

Apply