ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Veterinary Assistant Jobs in Alabaster, AL (NOW HIRING)

VCA Animal Hospitals

Veterinary Assistant

Birmingham, AL · On-site

$15 - $16/hr

Seeking a Veterinary Assistant! Location: 3810 River Run Dr, Birmingham, AL 35243 Compensation: The pay range for this position is $15-$16/hr Schedule: 7:30-5:30 M-F and biweekly weekend rotation ...

VCA Animal Hospitals

Veterinary Assistant

Birmingham, AL · On-site

$16/hr

Seeking a Veterinary Assistant! Location: 3810 River Run Dr, Birmingham, AL 35243 Compensation: The pay range for this position is $15-$16/hr Schedule: 7:30-5:30 M-F and biweekly weekend rotation ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsVeterinary JobsVeterinary Assistant JobsVeterinary Assistant Jobs in Alabaster, AL

Veterinary Assistant information

See Alabaster, AL salary details

$8

$14

$20

How much do veterinary assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average hourly pay for veterinary assistant in Alabaster, AL is $14.67, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.88 and $16.15 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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.

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 certifications or coursework in animal care. Entry-level roles provide opportunities to gain practical experience in a veterinary setting.

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.

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 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 program or certification can improve job prospects. Strong communication skills, basic knowledge of animal care, and the ability to work in a fast-paced environment are also important.
More about Veterinary Assistant jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Veterinary jobs in Alabaster, AL?

The most popular types of Veterinary jobs in Alabaster, AL are:

What job categories do people searching Veterinary Assistant jobs in Alabaster, AL look for?

The top searched job categories for Veterinary Assistant jobs in Alabaster, AL are:

What cities near Alabaster, AL are hiring for Veterinary Assistant jobs?

Cities near Alabaster, AL with the most Veterinary Assistant job openings:

Veterinary Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Veterinary Assistant job openings in Alabaster, AL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $30,512 per year, or $14.7 per hour.

Veterinary Assistant/Veterinary Technician

NewDay Veterinary Care

Birmingham, AL • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 4 days ago

Job description

Description
Our Birmingham practice in Alabama is looking for a skilled Veterinary Assistant or Veterinary Technician to play an important role in our clinic. Our experienced doctors and staff perform a vast array of procedures, and we are looking for someone interested in this exciting, growth-oriented opportunity!
At NewDay Veterinary Care, we believe in delivering high quality medicine along with an exceptional client experience in a compassionate environment. With our innovative, comprehensive pet care experience, patients can experience veterinary care in a less stressful environment. A place where routine exams, diagnostics, vaccinations, and wellness programs are only a splash away from the pool and their best friends.
Located at Pet Paradise, NewDay Veterinary Care provides the highest level of care for our patients, while recognizing the importance of work-life balance and a team-oriented approach to medicine. With over 20 hospitals and growing, NewDay Veterinary Care aims to create a positive culture of engagement, community, partnership, and social relationships to maintain an environment fostering both personal and professional development.
VETERINARY ASSISTANT / VETERINARY TECHNICIAN
Essential Functions of the Veterinary Assistant/Technician Include:
  • Provide quality, compassionate, best-in-class care for our patients, while also maximizing clinic productivity
  • Assist veterinarians with examinations and properly handle animals before, during, and after procedures
  • Perform diagnostic imaging such as x-rays and ultrasound
  • Clean, sterilize, and prepare kennels, exam rooms, and equipment
  • Maintain and update medical charts, administer medications and treatments, and care for animals during their visit
  • Professionally communicate basic diagnoses (such as ear infections, skin infections, intestinal parasites, etc.) to pet parents
  • Additional functions for qualified technicians: Perform dental prophylaxis, place IVCs, venipuncture, and assist with surgeries

Qualifications:
  • At least six months of prior experience as a Veterinary Assistant or Veterinary Technician
  • Veterinary Technician licensure (RVT, LVT, CVT) preferred
  • Lab, medical records, and SOAP knowledge
  • Surgery experience
  • Ability to read a fecal float, fecal direct, and ear/skin cytology
  • Comfortable with in-house hematology and chemistry equipment/reference lab
  • Knowledge of basic canine/feline vaccines and basic vital signs
  • Skilled in phlebotomy (cephalic and lateral saphenous, jugular; SQ, IM, and IV injections)
  • Experience with dental prophylaxis
  • Experience with anesthesia monitoring and recovery
  • Ability to work both independently and collaboratively
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills, including the ability to read, comprehend and write simple instructions, short correspondence, and memos
  • Capability to effectively present information in one-on-one and small group situations to customers, clients, and other employees within the organization
  • Ability to meet the following physical demands of the position, with or without accommodation: Exposure to animals that are agitated and/or injured and may scratch and/or bite, work in potentially loud environments, occasionally lift and move up to 50 pounds, access and retrieve objects at ground-level to upwards of several feet in a safe and compliant manner, and remain in mobile or stationary positions for long periods of time

Perks & Benefits:
  • Scholarships for Veterinary Technician certifications
  • Bring your pet to work with complimentary pet day camp
  • 30 days of complimentary pet boarding (non-holiday)
  • Discounted veterinary care and wellness plans for your pet
  • On-demand pay with DailyPay
  • Dog/Cat adoption assistance
  • Medical, Dental and Vision insurance (full-time status)
  • Flexible Spending Account (FSA) and Health Savings Account (HSA) plans (full-time status)
  • Supplemental coverage options
  • 401(k) plan with Company Match
  • Paid Time Off (PTO)
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
  • Fitness reimbursement

WE ARE A DRUG-FREE, SMOKE-FREE, EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER. Company Policy, Federal and State Laws Forbid Discrimination Because of Age, Color, Race, Religion, Sex, Disability, Sexual Orientation or National Origin

Apply