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Veterinary Assistant Jobs in Amherst, MA (NOW HIRING)

VCA Animal Hospitals

Veterinary Assistant

Palmer, MA · On-site

$18 - $22/hr

VCA Palmer Animal Hospital is hiring a full time Veterinary Assistant to join our team! About Us We are a 4-doctor full service veterinary hospital offering primary care, illness care, surgery and ...

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Veterinary Assistant information

See Amherst, MA salary details

$9

$16

$23

How much do veterinary assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for veterinary assistant in Amherst, MA is $16.98, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.90 and $18.70 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

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Veterinary Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Veterinary Assistant job openings in Amherst, MA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, and 14% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $35,317 per year, or $17 per hour.

Veterinary Assistant, Oncology

Ethos Veterinary Health

West Springfield, MA • On-site

$17 - $28.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 25 days ago

Job description

Veterinary Assistant, Oncology | $17-$28.50/hr
Location: West Springfield, MA
Schedule: Full-Time | Four 9-hour shifts or three 12-hour shifts
Compensation: $17-$28.50/hour + Shift Differentials
Veterinary Emergency & Specialty Hospital (VESH) in West Springfield, MA is hiring a Veterinary Assistant to join our Oncology team. This full-time Veterinary Assistant opportunity is ideal for someone looking to grow their skills in specialty medicine while supporting patients receiving advanced cancer care.
As an Oncology Veterinary Assistant or experienced Non-Credentialed Veterinary Technician at VESH, you'll work closely with our oncology team to provide compassionate patient support, assist with treatments, and help deliver exceptional care to pets and their families.
Compensation
  • Veterinary Assistant: $17-$20/hour, based on experience and skills
  • Non-Credentialed Technician: $20-$28.50/hour, based on experience and skills
  • Shift differential where applicable
  • Relocation assistance available for the right candidate
Full-Time Benefits:
  • Continuing Education + Free VetBloom access (RACE-approved CE)
  • Paid Shoe Stipend & Scrubs provided (free to you!)
  • CVT/LVT/RVT license reimbursement
  • RECOVER Training for advanced CPR skills
  • Veterinary Technician Education Sponsorships + VTNE reimbursement + VTS Support
  • 16-Week VTNE Study Group
  • Professional Development Assistance
  • PTO + Sick Time
  • Employee Referral Bonuses + Employee Pet Discount + Immediate Family Pet Discount
  • Access exclusive financial benefits to help you save on student loans, mortgages, and personal loans
  • NVA Pet Resort Discount + Pet Insurance Discount
  • Medical, Dental, Vision + HSA/FSA Options
  • Insurance Options: Life and AD&D + Short & Long-Term Disability + Critical Illness + Accident + Hospital Indemnity
  • 401(k) with employer match
  • Employee Assistance Program
Schedule
  • Four 9-hour shifts or Three 12-hour shifts
Responsibilities
  • Assist with oncology patient exams, treatments, and daily patient care
  • Support patients receiving chemotherapy treatment with appropriate training and safety protocols in place
  • Obtain patient histories, restrain patients, and assist clinicians during appointments and procedures
  • Record TPR, weight, and other patient data accurately in the medical record
  • Prepare and maintain exam rooms, treatment spaces, and equipment
  • Communicate with clients in person, by phone, and by email regarding appointments, updates, and discharge instructions
  • Fill prescriptions, schedule follow-up visits, and provide take-home care instructions
  • Assist with hospital admissions, patient intake, and discharge processes
  • Support animal care needs including feeding, walking, bathing, cage cleaning, and monitoring comfort
  • Restock supplies and assist with receiving and organizing hospital deliveries
  • Maintain accurate medical records and ensure a clean, organized hospital environment
Qualifications
  • Previous oncology experience preferred
  • Experience as a Veterinary Assistant or Non-Credentialed Veterinary Technician in a clinical veterinary setting
  • Passion for exceptional patient care and outstanding client service
  • Friendly, compassionate, dependable, and team-oriented approach
  • Positive attitude with a commitment to maintaining a respectful and collaborative hospital culture
  • Comfortable working in a fast-paced specialty environment
  • Self-motivated with a willingness to jump in where needed and support the broader hospital team
  • Eagerness to continue learning, grow technical skills, and collaborate closely with teammates
  • Fluent English speaking and reading skills required
About Veterinary Emergency & Specialty Hospital (VESH)
We are a 24-hour, VECCS Level 2 Certified, state-of-the-art Emergency + Specialty veterinary hospital.
Like human medical specialists, VESH supports primary care veterinarians with the evaluation and treatment of pets affected by trauma, chronic issues, serious illness, or unusual disorders requiring advanced training, while also providing critical and emergency veterinary care.
We offer a variety of specialty services including Advanced Imaging (CT), Internal Medicine, Surgery, Medical Oncology, and Emergency and Critical Care.
At VESH, you'll join a collaborative team committed to exceptional medicine, compassionate care, and continued learning. Every role in our hospital contributes to improving the lives of pets and the families who love them.
Surrounding Areas
Our hospital is located in West Springfield, MA, and draws talented veterinary professionals from throughout the region, including:
  • Springfield, MA & Chicopee, MA
  • Holyoke, MA & Longmeadow, MA
  • Agawam, MA & Northampton, MA
  • Amherst, MA & Enfield, CT
  • Suffield, CT & Hartford, CT

This location offers access to a broad veterinary talent market across Western Massachusetts and Northern Connecticut.
Know Someone Amazing?
If this role isn't the right fit but you know a great CVT, send them our way!
Email [email protected]-you could earn a $1,250 referral bonus if they're hired.
Considering Relocating?
Great talent can come from anywhere, and we welcome candidates who are considering a move. Whether you're relocating from another city, another state, or across the country, our Talent Acquisition team is here to support you throughout the hiring process and answer questions about the role, the hospital, and the surrounding community.
About Ethos Veterinary Health
Ethos Veterinary Health, part of the NVA Group, is where you come to practice world-class medicine, and help shape what veterinary care becomes next.
Across our network of 140 specialty and emergency hospitals, science moves forward, standards are elevated, and innovation is put into practice every day. You'll work alongside respected veterinary leaders in academic-caliber hospitals designed for learning, teaching, and discovery.
Here, mentorship is a two-way street. You'll share your expertise, learn from others, and continue to grow, clinically, professionally, and personally.
At Ethos, you inspire hope, deliver exceptional care, and pursue veterinary medicine at its highest level, together.
Join Us
At Ethos, this isn't just a job, it's an opportunity to practice medicine at the highest level and help shape the future of veterinary care.
Equal Opportunity Employer
Ethos is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Ethos does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, physical or mental disability, national origin, veteran status or any other basis covered by appropriate law. All employment is decided based on qualifications, competence, merit, and business need.

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