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Veterinary Assistant Jobs in Rochester, MN (NOW HIRING)

Veterinary Solut!ons Services

Veterinarian

Kasson, MN · On-site

$120K/yr

Associate Veterinarian$100,000-$120,000/year (DOE) $50,000 Sign-On BonusUnlimited PTOGrow Your Career Love helping pets and want a role where your growth actually matters? This full-service small ...

Banfield

Certified Vet Tech

Rochester, MN · On-site

$22.01 - $31.80/hr

Certified Veterinary Technician This posting will remain open for a minimum of two weeks from the position posted date. We are hiring for the following location: * Rochester, MN The pay range for ...

Banfield

Certified Vet Technician

Rochester, MN · On-site

$22.01 - $31.80/hr

Certified Veterinary Technician This posting will remain open for a minimum of two weeks from the position posted date. We are hiring for the following location: * Rochester, MN The pay range for ...

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All JobsVeterinary Assistant JobsVeterinary Assistant Jobs in Rochester, MN

Veterinary Assistant information

See Rochester, MN salary details

$10

$17

$24

How much do veterinary assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for veterinary assistant in Rochester, MN is $17.52, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.38 and $19.33 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 Rochester, MN? The most popular types of Veterinary jobs in Rochester, MN are:
What are popular job titles related to Veterinary Assistant jobs in Rochester, MN? For Veterinary Assistant jobs in Rochester, MN, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Veterinary Assistant jobs in Rochester, MN look for? The top searched job categories for Veterinary Assistant jobs in Rochester, MN are:
What cities near Rochester, MN are hiring for Veterinary Assistant jobs? Cities near Rochester, MN with the most Veterinary Assistant job openings:
Veterinary Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Veterinary Assistant job openings in Rochester, MN 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 $36,451 per year, or $17.5 per hour.

Associate Veterinarian - Rochester, MN

VCA Animal Hospital

Rochester, MN

$110K - $160K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 5 days ago

Job description

Join us as an Associate Veterinarian, DVM, at VCA Cascade Animal Medical Center & Inn, located in Rochester, Minnesota, and you'll quickly discover that you're well supported by world-class medicine, technology, facilities, and a talented team. You'll be empowered to do your best work with a team you can count on. At VCA, the future of veterinary medicine is in our hands.

Questions? Please contact Laurel Norman at laurel.norman@vca.com

Why join the team?

  • AAHA-accredited and Cat-Friendly Certified 3,800 sq. ft. facility with a spacious surgical suite, six exam rooms, and an ultrasound room.

  • Equipped with DR radiology, surgical laser, therapy laser, two updated dental stations, and ultrasound.

  • Established reputation in the community, attracting referrals from local emergency hospitals, surrounding hospitals, and rural clinics.

  • 6-doctor general practice supported by a well-trained team of certified veterinary technicians, veterinary assistants, and client service representatives.

  • Located in Rochester, MN-a growing, family-friendly city home to the world-famous Mayo Clinic. Enjoy a vibrant downtown full of restaurants, shopping, galleries, and theaters, along with picturesque parks and outdoor activities like biking and hiking.

  • Many clients are medically trained and highly engaged in providing the best care possible for their pets.

Schedule

  • Full-time schedule: 4 days per week with a rotating half-day on Saturday.

  • No on-call-enjoy a balanced work-life schedule in a supportive environment.

Cases

  • Wide range of general practice cases, from wellness and preventive care to dentistry, internal medicine, and surgical procedures.

  • Regularly see dermatology, ophthalmology, and chronic disease management cases, with the ability to perform in-house diagnostics and advanced imaging.

  • Referral potential from Southern Minnesota and Northeastern Iowa due to our location being 1.5 hours from the nearest specialty hospital.

  • Opportunities to expand skills with surgical laser, therapy laser, and advanced dental care.

Who we look for

  • People obsessed with pets and their care
  • Dedicated experts who want to provide world-class medicine
  • Collaborators who enjoy teaching others and working as a team
  • Curious lifelong learners who want to grow and thrive for a dynamic and fulfilling career
  • Empathetic partners who develop strong client and Associate relationships built on trust

Total Rewards

As a VCA Associate, eligible full-time employees will be rewarded with a comprehensive package, including:

Compensation

  • Salary is negotiable based on experience, skills, knowledge, abilities and other relevant credentials. The annual salary range for this position is $110k-160k.
  • Salary range listed is based on a 40 hour work week.
  • Salary negotiation can be discussed outside of pay band
  • This position may also be eligible for other variable pay programs.

Health & Well-being

  • Innovative Associate health and well-being resources (Headspace app, Vault financial wellness tool, and access to additional mental health resources including Lyra Health)401k retirement savings plan with companymatch
  • Health/dental/vision insurance, infertility and gender affirmation benefits
  • Paid parental, vacation and sick leave

Professional Development

  • Continuing Education Allowance and paid Continuing Education Days
  • WOOF University - offering abundant CE for Doctors and the care team
  • Opportunities to participate in a robust Clinical Studies program

Discover Additional BenefitsBenefits | VCA (vcacareers.com) (open link in new window)

Qualifications

  • A Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) degree, from an accredited university or equivalent
  • Licensure in good standing to practice in (MN), or the ability to obtain
  • A commitment to practicing the highest standard of medicine and upholding the veterinary code of ethics

About VCA

VCA is a leader in veterinary care and is committed to taking care of the future of veterinary medicine. With a network of 1,000 animal hospitals, we impact pets, people and our communities by delivering world-class medicine with hometown care to over 4.5 million pets annually.

Trusted and empowered, our 35,000 Associates collaborate and unleash their unique power to achieve the best outcomes. With access to endless resources, we continuously learn and share knowledge to build fulfilling careers, push our profession forward and make a lasting impact on our shared future.

VCA is part of the Mars Veterinary Health family of brands, working towards A Better World for Pets. Learn more at www.vca.com or find us on social media.

Learn more about the hospital [Link to hospital website]

If you are a current associate, you need to apply through our internal career site. Please log into Workday and click on the Jobs Hub app or search for Browse Jobs.

Benefits: We offer competitive compensation along with a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, vision and paid vacation/sick days, 401(k), generous employee pet discounts and more!The information in this position description indicates the general nature and level of work to be performed. It is not designed to be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities, and qualifications required of associates assigned to this job. Management reserves the right to revise the job description or require that other tasks be performed when the circumstances of the job change (for example, emergencies, change in personnel, workload, or technical development).We are proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer - Veterans / Disabled. For a complete EEO statement please see our career page at vcacareers.com.

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