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Veterinary Assistant Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Veterinary Assistant

Baroda, MI

$14.75 - $18.50/hr

Experienced Veterinary Assistant Status: Full-time (34-40 hours per week) Salary: Negotiable and based on experience Schedule: Four 8:45 AM-6:00 PM shifts per week, one Saturday per month (8:45 AM-12 ...

Veterinary Assistant

Okemos, MI · On-site

$14.25 - $18/hr

The Veterinary Assistant is a key member of the hospital team who supports and assists the veterinarians and veterinary technicians, ensuring the safety of pets, clients and other associates, and the ...

Veterinary Assistant

Hastings, MI

$15.25 - $19.25/hr

Licensed Veterinary Technician or Veterinary Assistant Status: Full-time Salary: Negotiable and based on experience Schedule: Four-day workweek with rotating Saturday shifts Benefits Highlights ...

New

Why You'll Love this Veterinary Assistant Job! If you are passionate about animals and excited about the opportunity to interact with a variety of pets, then our Veterinary Assistant position is the ...

Veterinary Assistant

Portage, MI · On-site

$15 - $18.75/hr

Experienced Veterinary Assistant Status: Full-time Salary: Negotiable and based on experience Schedule: Monday and Thursday 8:00 am - 6:00 pm, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday 8:00 am - 5:00 pm. No ...

Veterinary Assistant

Portage, MI

$15 - $18.75/hr

Experienced Veterinary Assistant Status: Full-time Salary: Negotiable and based on experience Schedule: Monday and Thursday 8:00 am - 6:00 pm, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday 8:00 am - 5:00 pm. No ...

Veterinary Assistant

Portage, MI

$15 - $18.75/hr

Experienced Veterinary Assistant Status: Full-time Salary: Negotiable and based on experience Schedule: Monday and Thursday 8:00 am - 6:00 pm, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday 8:00 am - 5:00 pm. No ...

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Veterinary Assistant

Lansing, MI · On-site

$15 - $18/hr

Veterinary Assistant - Join Our Compassionate Veterinary Team! Lansing, MI | Part-Time or Full-Time Available Starting at $15.00/hour (based on experience) Southside Animal Hospital is seeking a ...

Veterinary Assistant

Livonia, MI

$14.75 - $18.50/hr

Veterinary Assistant -- For People Who Want to Be Hands-On (Not Stuck Watching) Let's be real--some assistant roles end up being mostly cleaning, holding, and running around without ever really ...

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Veterinary Assistant information

See Michigan salary details

$8

$15

$20

How much do veterinary assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for veterinary assistant in Michigan is $15.03, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.22 and $16.54 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is being a veterinary assistant worth it?

Veterinary assistants perform tasks such as animal care, cleaning, and supporting veterinarians, often working in clinics or animal hospitals. The role can be rewarding for those passionate about animals but typically offers entry-level pay and requires physical stamina and good communication skills. Career advancement may involve gaining experience or pursuing additional certifications in veterinary technology.

Can I be a veterinary assistant with no experience?

Veterinary assistant positions often do not require prior experience, as on-the-job training is common. Basic skills such as animal handling, communication, and a willingness to learn are valuable, and some employers may prefer candidates with related coursework or certifications. Entry-level roles provide opportunities to gain practical experience in a veterinary setting.

What qualifications do you need to be a veterinary assistant?

Veterinary assistants typically need a high school diploma or equivalent. While formal education is not always required, completing a veterinary assistant training program or certification can improve job prospects. Basic knowledge of animal care, good communication skills, and the ability to work in a fast-paced environment are also important.

What are some typical challenges veterinary assistants face when working in fast-paced animal clinics?

Veterinary assistants in busy clinics often juggle multiple tasks, such as restraining animals, cleaning exam rooms, assisting with procedures, and communicating with pet owners. Managing high patient volume while maintaining accuracy and compassion can be challenging, especially during emergencies or peak hours. Teamwork, adaptability, and strong organizational skills are essential to handle shifting priorities and ensure quality care for both animals and clients.

What do veterinary assistants do?

Veterinary Assistants, or vet assistants, help Veterinarians and Veterinarian Technicians in animal care hospitals, animal clinics, or other veterinary facilities. As a Veterinary Assistant, you feed, bathe, and exercise animals in your care. Veterinarian Assistants also restrain animals when the vet examines or treats them. Other job duties may include greeting pet owners when they enter the office, organizing files, and cleaning and sterilizing equipment. Some Veterinary Assistant positions require you to perform lab work, such as collecting urine samples from animals, drawing blood, and administering medication under the supervision of the primary veterinarian or technician.

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

Veterinary Assistants need a basic understanding of animal care, handling, and medical terminology, often supported by a high school diploma or veterinary assistant certification. Familiarity with animal restraint techniques, cleaning protocols, and veterinary software systems is common in this role. Compassion, attention to detail, and strong teamwork skills distinguish exceptional Veterinary Assistants. These abilities are crucial for ensuring animal well-being, supporting veterinarians, and maintaining an efficient, safe clinical environment.

What do I need to be a veterinary assistant?

To become a veterinary assistant, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent. Relevant skills include animal handling, communication, and basic knowledge of veterinary procedures; some employers may prefer certification or on-the-job training. Physical stamina and the ability to work in a veterinary clinic environment are also important.

What is the difference between Veterinary Assistant vs Veterinary Technician?

AspectVeterinary AssistantVeterinary Technician
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; on-the-job trainingAssociate degree in veterinary technology; certification often required
Work EnvironmentAssist veterinarians and technicians in clinics, animal shelters, and labsPerform more advanced medical procedures under supervision in clinics and hospitals
Job ResponsibilitiesAnimal restraint, cleaning, basic patient care, clerical tasksPerform lab work, administer medications, assist in surgeries, diagnostic testing
Industry UsageCommon entry-level role in veterinary practicesMore specialized role requiring formal education and certification

The main difference between a Veterinary Assistant and a Veterinary Technician lies in their education, responsibilities, and level of medical involvement. Veterinary Technicians have formal training and perform more complex medical tasks, while Veterinary Assistants focus on basic support and animal care. Both roles are essential in veterinary settings, but technicians typically have greater responsibilities and qualifications.

Is becoming a veterinary assistant worth it?

Veterinary assistants perform basic animal care, assist veterinarians, and often work in clinics or animal hospitals. The role typically requires a high school diploma or equivalent and offers opportunities for on-the-job training, with job growth driven by increasing pet ownership and demand for veterinary services.
What are the most commonly searched types of Veterinary jobs in Michigan? The most popular types of Veterinary jobs in Michigan are:
What cities in Michigan are hiring for Veterinary Assistant jobs? Cities in Michigan with the most Veterinary Assistant job openings:
Infographic showing various Veterinary Assistant job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $31,255 per year, or $15 per hour.

$15 - $18.50/hr

Full-time

Posted 4 days ago


Job description

Position Title: Veterinary Assistant
Reports To: Lead Veterinary Technician / Hospital Manager / Veterinarian
Department: Medical Team
FLSA Status: Non-Exempt

Pay: Hourly $15-$18.50


Position Summary

The Veterinary Assistant (Non-Certified is okay) supports veterinarians and licensed technicians in providing high-quality patient care and excellent client service. While not credentialed, this role requires strong hands-on skills, safe patient handling, and the ability to assist in medical procedures, diagnostics, treatments, and recordkeeping under the supervision of a veterinarian or LVT.


Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Patient Care & Handling

         Safely restrain and handle patients for examinations, treatments, and procedures.

         Provide comfort, monitoring, and nursing care to hospitalized patients.

         Assist with induction and monitoring of anesthesia under LVT/DVM supervision.

         Perform dental charting and assist with dental cleanings as trained.

Medical Support

         Maintain exam rooms, treatment areas, and surgical suites.

         Assist veterinarians during exams, procedures, and surgeries.

         Collect and process samples (blood, urine, fecal, cytology) as trained.

         Run in-house diagnostics (bloodwork, urinalysis, fecals, SNAP tests) etc.

         Fill prescriptions accurately and safely.

         Accurately enter medical notes and charges in the practice management system.

Client Service

         Communicate clearly and compassionately with clients about patient care, treatment plans, and discharge instructions (as directed by the doctor).

         Provide education on preventative care, nutrition, and medications under the guidance of the DVM/LVT.

Hospital Operations

         Clean, sterilize, and maintain equipment and instruments.

         Maintain hospital cleanliness and organization, including treatment and kennel areas.

         Stock and rotate supplies; notify leadership when items are low.

         Follow infection control, safety, and AAHA standards.


Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

         Compassion for animals and people, with empathy and strong communication skills.

         Ability to restrain animals safely and confidently in various situations.

         Skilled in sample collection, diagnostics, and treatment assistance (as trained).

         Strong teamwork and adaptability in a fast-paced environment.

         Basic computer and record-keeping skills.

         Ability to communicate clearly, both verbally and in writing, including entering coherent and professional statements in patient records.

         Knowledge of basic pharmacology and ability to fill prescriptions accurately under supervision.


Education & Experience

         High school diploma or equivalent required.

         Previous animal handling required. Experience can be from vet care, shelter care or pet daycare/boarding.

         Formal credentialing (LVT/CVT/RVT) not required.


Physical Requirements

         Ability to stand, walk, bend, and kneel for extended periods.

         Ability to lift and carry up to 50 lbs (with assistance available for larger patients).

         Exposure to allergens, zoonotic diseases, anesthesia, radiation, and cleaning chemicals with appropriate PPE provided.


Core Values Alignment

         Hospital-Oriented: Supports the team and fosters a positive environment.

         Results-Driven: Strives for accuracy, efficiency, and high-quality care.

         Accountable: Takes responsibility for duties and follows through.

         Transparent: Communicates clearly with teammates and clients.

         Innovative: Open to learning, training, and improving hospital processes.


NVA logo

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