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Veterinary Assistant Jobs in Decatur, AL (NOW HIRING)

Alliance Animal Health

Veterinary Receptionist

Huntsville, AL · On-site

$15 - $18/hr

... help assist with providing top notch diagnostics for our patients. We also offer grooming and ... Experienced Receptionist with a minimum of 1-year veterinary experience preferred * Compassionate ...

Banfield

Licensed Veterinary Technician

Huntsville, AL

$20.92 - $30.21/hr

We are hiring a part-time or full-time Licensed Veterinary Technician (LVT) to support one of the following locations: * Huntsville University: 6275 University Dr NW #35, Huntsville, AL The pay range ...

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Banfield

Licensed Veterinary Technician

Harvest, AL

$20.92 - $30.21/hr

We are hiring a part-time or full-time Licensed Veterinary Technician (LVT) to support one of the following locations: * Huntsville University: 6275 University Dr NW #35, Huntsville, AL The pay range ...

New

Banfield

Licensed Veterinary Technician

Madison, AL

$20.92 - $30.21/hr

We are hiring a part-time or full-time Licensed Veterinary Technician (LVT) to support one of the following locations: * Huntsville University: 6275 University Dr NW #35, Huntsville, AL The pay range ...

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All JobsVeterinary Assistant JobsVeterinary Assistant Jobs in Decatur, AL

Veterinary Assistant information

See Decatur, AL salary details

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$16

$22

How much do veterinary assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for veterinary assistant in Decatur, AL is $16.16, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.18 and $17.79 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the top pay for a veterinary assistant?

The top pay for a veterinary assistant typically ranges from $15 to $20 per hour, with some experienced or specialized assistants earning higher wages. Salaries can vary based on location, experience, and the type of veterinary practice, and additional certifications may lead to higher compensation.

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 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 are veterinary assistants?

Veterinary assistants are animal care professionals who support veterinarians and veterinary technicians in animal clinics, hospitals, and shelters. Their duties include feeding, bathing, and exercising animals, cleaning and disinfecting kennels and exam rooms, and assisting with handling animals during examinations or procedures. They may also help with administrative tasks like scheduling appointments and maintaining records. Veterinary assistants play a crucial role in ensuring the well-being of animals and the smooth operation of veterinary facilities.

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 you be a vet assistant with no experience?

Veterinary assistants can often start with little or no prior experience, as on-the-job training is common. Basic skills such as animal handling, communication, and a willingness to learn are important, and some employers may prefer candidates with related coursework or certifications. Gaining experience through volunteering or internships can improve job prospects and performance in this role.

What qualifications do you need to be a vet 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. Basic knowledge of animal care, good communication skills, 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 Decatur, AL? The most popular types of Veterinary jobs in Decatur, AL are:
What job categories do people searching Veterinary Assistant jobs in Decatur, AL look for? The top searched job categories for Veterinary Assistant jobs in Decatur, AL are:
What cities near Decatur, AL are hiring for Veterinary Assistant jobs? Cities near Decatur, AL with the most Veterinary Assistant job openings:
Veterinary Assistant jobs near you
Veterinary Receptionist

Veterinary Receptionist

Alliance Animal Health

Huntsville, AL • On-site

$15 - $18/hr

Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 11 days ago

Job description

Company Description
McCurdy Animal Hospital is a well-established veterinary practice in Huntsville, Alabama. We pride ourselves on caring for all pets like our own family members. Our team is very involved in the community and the Alabama State Board of Veterinary Medicine to advocate for medical practices that promote health and longevity in animals. We proudly partner with the Greater Huntsville Humane Society and Friends of Rescue to provide surgeries and vaccines to shelter animals.
Our hospital is well-equipped with the latest advancements in technology and offers innovative medical techniques to deliver the best possible results. McCurdy Animal Hospital provides state-of-the-art services to give patients the best possible care, including wellness care, dentistry, and surgery. Our team routinely performs surgeries including but not limited to spays, neuter, and mass removals. These are typically performed with our CO2 laser to minimize pain and recovery time. We also offer digital full-body radiology, digital dental radiographs, and digital ultrasound to help assist with providing top notch diagnostics for our patients. We also offer grooming and overnight boarding in a beautiful, comfortable facility.
Huntsville, Alabama, is one of the south's fastest growing cities. Rooted in innovative tech, history, and art, Huntsville merges the latest technology with southern hospitality. Located in the Tennessee Valley, tranquil gardens, hiking trails, picturesque lakes, and mountains are at your fingertips. Enjoy a multitude of dining experiences from local southern cafes to urban breweries and eateries. Home to the "Father of Rocket Science" Wernher von Braun, look no further than the U.S. Space and Rocket Center to catch up-close views of the cosmos. The downtown strip features outdoor concert series, festivals, and food trucks year-round. If you desire a well-balanced lifestyle in an up-and-coming city, Huntsville is the place to be!
To learn more about us, click here!
Job Description
Job duties include, but are not limited to:
Maintain the visual appeal or the hospital reception area, greet and welcome clients and patients, answer questions and triage client concerns, answer calls or emails and direct to the appropriate party for resolution, schedule appointments to maximize efficiency and daily flow, check in and check out clients and process payments. Our receptionists offer friendly emotional support in a compassionate and discreet manner during times of need to our clients and must be comfortable with various medical outcomes.
Must be able to withstand unpleasant odors and noises. May be exposed to bites, scratches, animal waste and potentially contagious diseases.
Whether you're looking to just be a master of your role or trying to grow into that next career move, you'll have opportunities through a variety of virtual and hands on, interactive training and continuing development.
Qualifications
We're looking for:
  • Experienced Receptionist with a minimum of 1-year veterinary experience preferred
  • Compassionate, Calm, Team Player, Multi-Tasker and Strong Communicator
  • Highly organized and possess computer skills
  • Self-starter with the desire to continue to advance your knowledge and skillset.

Additional Information
Job type: part-time
We offer our staff:
  • Comprehensive Benefits (health, dental, vision, liability, 401k & 401K matching program, life & supplemental insurance, HSA, & FSA)
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Paid Vacation and Sick Time for ALL Employees
  • Paid Bereavement Program
  • Paid Parental Leave Program
  • Competitive Compensation
  • Continuing Education Allowance (applies to licensed/registered/certified roles)
  • Tuition Reimbursement Program Available to any AVMA Accredited Veterinary Technology Program
  • Career Development Opportunities
  • Referral Bonus Program for most positions!
  • Additional Benefits May Also Be Available (i.e. Personal Pet Discounts, Holiday Pay, Uniform Allowance, Bonuses etc)
  • Hiring eligibility may be contingent to a candidate authorizing and completing a satisfactory background check.

*Note - some benefits may only be available to or vary slightly for full time employment status vs part time status.
For additional details including our full equal opportunity statement, texting/outreach communication authorization, physical requirements of the job and more, please visit https://allianceanimal.com/additionaljobdescriptiondetails/.

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