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Veterinary Assistant Jobs in Decatur, TN (NOW HIRING)

Banfield Pet Hospital

Pet Care Assistant

Chattanooga, TN · On-site

The Pet Care Assistant works with the veterinary medical team to provide and prepare for the best medical care of pets. ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES AND TASKS: Live and exemplify the Five Principles of ...

Banfield Pet Hospital

Pet Care Assistant

Chattanooga, TN

$15 - $15.97/hr

The Pet Care Assistant works with the veterinary medical team to provide and prepare for the best medical care of pets. ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES AND TASKS: Live and exemplify the Five Principles of ...

Vetcor

Veterinary Technician

Chattanooga, TN

Provide exceptional patient care and nursing support * Assist veterinarians during examinations, treatments, and procedures * Monitor anesthesia and support surgical procedures * Obtain diagnostic ...

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All JobsVeterinary Assistant JobsVeterinary Assistant Jobs in Decatur, TN

Veterinary Assistant information

See Decatur, TN salary details

$8

$14

$19

How much do veterinary assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for veterinary assistant in Decatur, TN is $14.13, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.40 and $15.58 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, TN? The most popular types of Veterinary jobs in Decatur, TN are:
What cities near Decatur, TN are hiring for Veterinary Assistant jobs? Cities near Decatur, TN with the most Veterinary Assistant job openings:
Veterinary Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Veterinary Assistant job openings in Decatur, TN as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $29,393 per year, or $14.1 per hour.

Outpatient Veterinary Assistant - Part-Time Weekends

Animal Emergency & Specialty Center - Chattanooga

Chattanooga, TN • On-site

$18 - $25/hr

Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 10 days ago

Job description

Description
Specialty & Surgical Services | Veterinary Specialty Hospital Jobs | Chattanooga, TN

Are you an experienced Veterinary Assistant or Veterinary Technician looking to grow your career in specialty veterinary medicine? Do you enjoy high-level patient care, collaborative teamwork, and working in a fast-paced clinical environment with advanced medical cases?
Animal Emergency & Specialty Center of Chattanooga (AESC Chattanooga) is expanding and seeking an experienced Outpatient Veterinary Assistant or Veterinary Technician to support our growing specialty and surgical services.
This is not an entry-level veterinary position. The ideal candidate brings strong clinical confidence, thrives in a fast-paced specialty environment, and has a solid foundation in surgery, anesthesia, emergency medicine, or advanced general practice.
About AESC Chattanooga
AESC Chattanooga is East Tennessee’s premier provider of 24-hour emergency and specialty veterinary care, offering:
  • Emergency & Critical Care
  • Surgery
  • Oncology
  • Internal Medicine
Our modern, fully equipped veterinary hospital is supported by a compassionate and highly skilled team dedicated to exceptional medicine and client care. At AESC, we invest in our people because your growth and success matter here.
Schedule
Part-Time Weekend Schedule
Saturday & Sunday | 4:00 PM – 4:00 AM

Your day-to-day responsibilities will include:
As an Outpatient Veterinary Assistant or Technician, you will play a key role in supporting scheduled outpatient appointments, specialty procedures, and surgical cases. You’ll work closely with veterinarians, credentialed technicians, and specialty teams to ensure efficient patient flow, exceptional medical care, and clear client communication.
This role is ideal for veterinary professionals with ER, specialty, surgical, anesthesia, or advanced general practice experience who are ready to apply their skills in a structured outpatient setting.
Primary Responsibilities

  • Support veterinarians and credentialed technicians with outpatient, surgical, and specialty cases
  • Assist with patient intake, history collection, and outpatient procedures
  • Perform diagnostics including:
    • Venipuncture and laboratory sample preparation
    • Radiographs
    • Urinalysis, fecals, cytology, and bloodwork
  • Place and maintain intravenous catheters
  • Assist with anesthesia induction, monitoring, and recovery
  • Prepare patients for surgery and provide post-operative care
  • Administer medications via IV, SQ, IM, and PO routes
  • Monitor patient vitals and comfort during procedures
  • Provide compassionate client communication and education
  • Accurately dispense prescribed medications
  • Maintain clean, organized, and fully stocked treatment and outpatient areas
  • Collaborate closely with emergency and specialty teams to support continuity of care

Skills Knowledge and Expertise
  • Minimum of 2 years of veterinary clinical experience required
  • Experience in emergency, specialty, surgery, anesthesia, or advanced general practice strongly preferred
  • Strong technical and patient care skills
  • Ability to multitask and prioritize in a fast-paced veterinary environment
  • Excellent communication and teamwork skills
  • Positive attitude, professionalism, and willingness to learn
  • Passion for delivering exceptional veterinary medicine and patient care

Benefits
  • Paid Time Off (PTO)
  • Health Insurance
  • Dental Insurance
  • Vision insurance
  • Employee discounts
  • Flexible schedules
  • 401K with company match
  • Career development and training