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Veterinary Assistant Jobs in Portland, ME (NOW HIRING)

Boothbay Animal Hospital

Veterinary Assistant

Boothbay, ME · On-site

$16.25 - $20.25/hr

Veterinary Assistant Status: Full-time Salary: Negotiable and based on experience Schedule: Four-day work week with rotating Saturday shifts Benefits Highlights Financial Rewards that Grow with You:

Vetcor

Veterinary Assistant

Boothbay, ME · On-site

$16.25 - $20.25/hr

Veterinary Assistant Status: Full-time Salary: Negotiable and based on experience Schedule: Four-day work week with rotating Saturday shifts Benefits Highlights Financial Rewards that Grow with You:

Boothbay Animal Hospital

Veterinary Assistant

Boothbay, ME · On-site

$16.25 - $20.25/hr

Veterinary Assistant Status: Full-time Salary: Negotiable and based on experience Schedule: Four-day work week with rotating Saturday shifts Benefits Highlights Financial Rewards that Grow with You:

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Veterinary Assistant information

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How much do veterinary assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for veterinary assistant in Portland, ME is $17.89, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.72 and $19.71 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 Portland, ME?

The most popular types of Veterinary jobs in Portland, ME are:

What are popular job titles related to Veterinary Assistant jobs in Portland, ME?

For Veterinary Assistant jobs in Portland, ME, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Veterinary Assistant jobs in Portland, ME look for?

The top searched job categories for Veterinary Assistant jobs in Portland, ME are:

What cities near Portland, ME are hiring for Veterinary Assistant jobs?

Cities near Portland, ME with the most Veterinary Assistant job openings:

Veterinary Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Veterinary Assistant job openings in Portland, ME as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,084 per year, or $16.9 per hour.

Veterinary Assistant

Boothbay Animal Hospital

Boothbay, ME • On-site

$16.25 - $20.25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 5 days ago

Job description

Who we are:
Boothbay Animal Hospital is Hiring a Veterinary Assistant!
Position Details
Role: Veterinary Assistant
Status: Full-time
Salary: Negotiable and based on experience
Schedule: Four-day work week with rotating Saturday shifts
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 pet 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 Assistant job where you'll be supported, encouraged to grow, and genuinely enjoy coming to work every day? We'd love to meet you.
Boothbay Animal Hospital is a four-doctor small animal practice located in beautiful Boothbay, Maine. We're known for our collaborative culture, exceptional client service, and commitment to practicing high-quality medicine. We're looking for a compassionate Veterinary Assistant who enjoys patient care, values teamwork, and wants to build a rewarding veterinary career alongside a team that truly enjoys working together.
If you're searching for a hospital where your contributions are appreciated, your ideas are valued, and your professional growth is encouraged, you may have just found your new home.
Why Our Veterinary Assistants Love It Here
  • Supportive team that genuinely helps one another-no egos, no drama
  • Collaborative culture where successes are shared and challenges are tackled together
  • Four-day work weeks with rotating Saturday shifts
  • Predictable scheduling that supports a healthy work-life balance
  • Mentorship and hands-on training to help you continue growing
  • Positive environment where questions are encouraged and learning never stops
  • High standards of medicine delivered by a team that's proud of the care we provide
  • Fully stocked refrigerator with drinks and snacks, plus regular lunch breaks

What Our Veterinary Assistants Do
  • Assist the veterinary team with patient care throughout the day
  • Triage patients and obtain medical histories, vital signs, and patient assessments
  • Prepare and administer medications, vaccines, and treatments as directed
  • Perform in-house laboratory testing, including CBCs, chemistry panels, urinalysis, cytology, and fecal testing
  • Educate clients with compassion and confidence about preventive care and treatment plans
  • Maintain accurate medical records and patient documentation
  • Assist with patient restraint using safe, compassionate handling techniques
  • Collaborate with teammates to maintain an efficient workflow and exceptional patient care
  • Participate in ongoing training and professional development opportunities

What You'll Bring
  • Previous veterinary assistant or veterinary technician experience preferred
  • Comfort working in a fast-paced veterinary environment
  • Strong client service and communication skills
  • Confidence handling patients or a willingness to continue learning
  • Knowledge of preventive care and basic veterinary procedures
  • Excellent patient handling skills with a focus on low-stress or Fear Free techniques
  • Strong attention to detail and organizational skills
  • Positive attitude, reliability, and commitment to teamwork

The Extras You'll Actually Feel
  • A workplace where teamwork and kindness are part of every day
  • Leaders who encourage your professional development and celebrate your successes
  • Meaningful work helping pets and the people who love them
  • A culture that celebrates birthdays, new babies, anniversaries, and personal milestones
  • A fully stocked snack and beverage fridge to keep you fueled throughout the day
  • A team that values respect, collaboration, and having fun while doing meaningful work

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

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

Join Our Team!
If you're looking for a hospital where you'll be supported, challenged, and appreciated while helping provide exceptional care to pets and their families, we'd love to hear from you.
Apply today and discover why Boothbay Animal Hospital is such a rewarding place to build your veterinary career.
Diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging are core values at Boothbay Animal Hospital and Vetcor. We are committed to building an inclusive, equitable workplace where every team member feels safe being their authentic self, truly belongs, and is empowered to reach their highest potential.

Apply