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Veterinary Assistant Jobs in Decatur, TN (NOW HIRING)

VCA Animal Hospitals

Veterinary Technician

Chattanooga, TN · On-site

$20 - $24/hr

VCA RIVER is hiring an experienced Credentialed Veterinary Technician to join ouremergency and ICU team at our AAHA-accredited emergency and specialty animal hospital in Chattanooga, TN. Come work in ...

VCA Animal Hospital

Veterinary Surgeon

Chattanooga, TN · On-site

Join us as a Veterinary Surgeon at VCA Regional Institute for Veterinary Emergency and Referral (RIVER) , and you'll quickly discover that you're well supported by world-class medicine, technology ...

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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.
Veterinary Technician

Veterinary Technician

Red Bank Animal Hospital

Chattanooga, TN

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 13 days ago

Job description

Who we are:

Red Bank Animal Hospital is Hiring a Veterinary Technician!

Position Details

  • Role: Experienced or Licensed Veterinary Technician
  • Status: Full-Time
  • Salary: Negotiable and based on experience
  • Schedule: Four days per week with every other Saturday

Benefits Highlights

  • Financial Rewards that Grow with You: Competitive pay, 401(k) matching, tuition support, and referral bonuses
  • Wellness & Peace of Mind: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage with supplemental options; up to three weeks of paid parental leave; generous PTO; and employee discounts
  • Professional Growth & Recognition: Quarterly team bonuses, continuing education allowance, state license & VTNE fee reimbursement, and uniform allowance
  • Lifestyle Perks You'll Appreciate: Six paid holidays and an Employee Assistance Program

Looking for a Veterinary Technician Role That Lights Your Fire Instead of Burning You Out?

Red Bank Animal Hospital is seeking an Experienced or Licensed Veterinary Technician to join our supportive and collaborative team. If you're looking for greater predictability in your schedule, a workplace where you can be your authentic self, and a team that genuinely values your contributions, we'd love to meet you.

At Red Bank Animal Hospital, we believe veterinary medicine is best practiced when team members support one another, continue learning, and work together toward exceptional patient care. We foster a positive culture where growth, teamwork, and appreciation are part of everyday life.

Why Our Veterinary Technicians Love Red Bank Animal Hospital

  • Predictable scheduling with four-day work weeks
  • Supportive, team-oriented workplace culture
  • Employee benefits that strengthen both the body and the mind
  • Rotating Saturday shifts only every other week
  • Mentorship and support as you advance your career
  • Opportunities for professional growth and continuing education
  • A team that believes in collaboration, positivity, and mutual respect
  • Access to Vetcor's TechLife Facebook community of more than 800 veterinary technicians company-wide

What You'll Do

  • Provide exceptional patient care and nursing support
  • Assist veterinarians during examinations, treatments, and procedures
  • Monitor anesthesia and support surgical procedures
  • Obtain diagnostic samples including bloodwork and laboratory testing
  • Perform radiographs and assist with diagnostic imaging
  • Administer medications and treatments as directed
  • Maintain accurate medical records and patient documentation
  • Communicate professionally and compassionately with clients and team members
  • Support daily hospital operations and workflow efficiency
  • Collaborate with fellow team members to deliver outstanding patient care

What Our Veterinary Technicians Bring

  • Previous Veterinary Technician experience required
  • Veterinary Technician license preferred but not required
  • Strong technical and patient care skills
  • Experience with anesthesia monitoring and diagnostics
  • Excellent communication and client service abilities
  • Positive attitude and willingness to support teammates
  • Commitment to ongoing learning and professional development
  • Compassion for patients, clients, and coworkers

Benefits You Can't Beat

Financial Benefits

  • A flexible approach to compensation that will reflect your skillset and future performance
  • 401(k) matching & Roth Retirement Savings Plan
  • Flexible Spending Account (full-time only)
  • 529 Savings Plan
  • Tuition Support Program (full-time only)
  • Referral bonus program

Wellness Benefits

  • Health Insurance, including medical, dental, and vision (full-time only)
  • Supplemental insurance, including accident, critical illness, hospital, short and long-term disability, legal plan, and employee, spouse, and child-dependent life insurance (full-time only)
  • Up to three weeks of full pay for the birth or adoption of a child (full-time employees only; available after one year of service). In states with paid family leave programs, this benefit does not apply.
  • Sick Time / Paid Time Off
  • Free/discounted lab work for all employee pets
  • Pet discounts on services and products
  • Pet food discount program

Workplace Benefits

  • Quarterly Team Rewards Bonus Program
  • Professional development opportunities
  • State license reimbursement
  • VTNE exam fee reimbursement
  • Continuing education allowance
  • Uniform allowance
  • Access to Vetcor's TechLife Facebook group with more than 800 veterinary technicians company-wide

Lifestyle Benefits

  • Six paid holidays (full-time only)
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Employee discount program

Join Our Team!

Think you're the Veterinary Technician we've been searching for? We'd love to meet you. Apply today and discover what makes Red Bank Animal Hospital such a rewarding place to build your veterinary career!

Diversity, equity, and inclusion are core values at Red Bank Animal Hospital and Vetcor. We are passionate about building and sustaining an inclusive and equitable working and learning environment for all employees. Every team member enriches our diversity by exposing us to various ways to understand and engage with the world. That's why we're committed to a workplace culture where employees are comfortable being their authentic selves, feel a complete sense of belonging, and are empowered to reach their highest potential.

Employment Type: FULL_TIME

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