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Veterinary Assistant Jobs in Rio Rancho, NM (NOW HIRING)

Roadrunner Veterinary Medicine LLC

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Veterinary Assistant / Technician

Los Lunas, NM · On-site

$15 - $20/hr

Veterinary Assistant / Veterinary Technician - Join Our Compassionate Team! Are you passionate about animal care and looking to make a difference in the lives of pets and their people? Our busy ...

Roadrunner Veterinary Medicine LLC

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Veterinary Assistant / Technician

Los Lunas, NM · On-site

$15 - $20/hr

Veterinary Assistant / Veterinary Technician - Join Our Compassionate Team! Are you passionate about animal care and looking to make a difference in the lives of pets and their people? Our busy ...

Banfield Pet Hospital

Veterinary Assistant

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

$15.19 - $19.41/hr

The Veterinary Assistant supports the veterinarians and veterinary technicians in ensuring quality veterinary care for all pets, advocates for pets, educates clients on all aspects of pet health, and ...

Banfield Pet Hospital

Veterinary Assistant

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

$15.19 - $19.41/hr

The Veterinary Assistant supports the veterinarians and veterinary technicians in ensuring quality veterinary care for all pets, advocates for pets, educates clients on all aspects of pet health, and ...

VCA Animal Hospitals

Veterinary Assistant

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

$15.25 - $19.25/hr

If you are an experienced veterinary assistant, we'd love to meet you! Location: 2740 Wyoming Blvd NE #1, Albuquerque, NM 87111 Schedule: Full-Time, 40 hours Salary: $ 17 -$ 23 per hour We provide ...

NVA

Certified Veterinary Assistant

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

$16/hr

Are you a certified Veterinary Assistant looking for a team that will value you for your unique skills and experiences? If so, Manzano Animal Clinic has the opportunity for you! About Us We are a ...

VCA Animal Hospital

Veterinary Assistant

Albuquerque, NM

$15.25 - $19.25/hr

If you are an experienced veterinary assistant, we'd love to meet you! Location: 2740 Wyoming Blvd NE #1, Albuquerque, NM 87111 Schedule: Full-Time, 40 hours Salary: $ 17 -$ 23 per hour We provide ...

Santa Fe Animal Shelter

Veterinary Assistant II

Santa Fe, NM · On-site

$17.50 - $20.50/hr

Veterinary Assistant II Assist the veterinarians in the medical and surgical treatment of animals. Intake animals entering the shelter system following proper protocols of handling and computer data ...

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All JobsVeterinary Assistant JobsVeterinary Assistant Jobs in Rio Rancho, NM

Veterinary Assistant information

See Rio Rancho, NM salary details

$9

$16

$22

How much do veterinary assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for veterinary assistant in Rio Rancho, NM is $16.22, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.23 and $17.88 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 Rio Rancho, NM? The most popular types of Veterinary jobs in Rio Rancho, NM are:
What cities near Rio Rancho, NM are hiring for Veterinary Assistant jobs? Cities near Rio Rancho, NM with the most Veterinary Assistant job openings:
Veterinary Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Veterinary Assistant job openings in Rio Rancho, NM 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 $33,730 per year, or $16.2 per hour.

Veterinary Assistant / Technician

Roadrunner Veterinary Medicine LLC

Los Lunas, NM • On-site

$15 - $20/hr

Full-time

PTO

Posted yesterday

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Job description

Veterinary Assistant / Veterinary Technician – Join Our Compassionate Team!

Are you passionate about animal care and looking to make a difference in the lives of pets and their people? Our busy, community-focused small animal veterinary clinic is looking for a Veterinary Assistant or Veterinary Technician to join our dedicated team.

We pride ourselves on providing compassionate, high-quality care while creating a supportive environment for both our clients and our team members.

The Veterinary Assistant/Technician plays an essential role in patient care, client communication, and supporting the veterinary team. The ideal candidate is dependable, compassionate, detail-oriented, and thrives in a fast-paced environment.

Responsibilities

  • Assist veterinarians with exams, treatments, and surgical procedures

  • Safely restrain pets for exams, diagnostics, and procedures

  • Collect and run laboratory samples (blood, fecal, urine, cytology)

  • Administer medications and vaccines as directed by the veterinarian

  • Take radiographs and assist with diagnostic imaging

  • Maintain accurate medical records

  • Educate clients on medications, treatments, and preventive care

  • Maintain cleanliness and organization of treatment areas and equipment

Qualifications

  • Experience working in a veterinary clinic preferred

  • Veterinary Technician certification or eligibility is a plus (not required for assistants)

  • Strong communication and teamwork skills

  • Ability to multitask in a fast-paced environment

  • Compassionate handling of animals and excellent client service skills

  • Ability to lift and restrain animals safely

What We Offer

  • Competitive pay based on experience

  • Supportive team environment

  • Opportunities for growth and continued learning

  • Employee pet care discounts

  • The rewarding experience of helping pets and the people who love them

If you are passionate about animal care and want to be part of a team that truly values pets and their families, we would love to hear from you!

Please submit your resume and a brief cover letter explaining your interest in the position.

Company Description

Roadrunner Veterinary Medicine, DBA Bosque Animal Clinic is committed to providing high quality, compassionate veterinary care to every pet and beloved family member entrusted in our care. Our goal is to improve the quality of life of our patients through comprehensive veterinary care, client education, disease prevention, early detection of illness and multimodal treatment options. We strive to provide excellent service to our clients and patients through lifelong learning in an effort to be constantly improving our client communication and veterinary skills.
Bosque Animal Clinic is located in the heart of Los Lunas in a newly renovated 4000 square foot clinic with 5 exam rooms, dedicated comfort room, complete in house laboratory equipment, dental xrays, digitial xrays, and cold laser therapy.