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Veterinary Assistant Jobs in Seattle, WA (NOW HIRING)

Cara Veterinary

Veterinary Assistant

Kirkland, WA · On-site

$22 - $26/hr

Description Veterinary Assistant: We can help you have a job you love and the life you want. Juanita Hills Animal Hospital is an established hospital in Western Washington and part of the Cara ...

Cara Veterinary

Veterinary Assistant

Mercer Island, WA · On-site

$22 - $26/hr

Veterinary Assistant: We can help you have a job you love and the life you want. Island Animal Hospital is an established hospital in Mercer Island, WA and part of the Cara Network of Neighborhood ...

New

Cara Veterinary

Veterinary Assistant

Mercer Island, WA

$22 - $26/hr

Description Veterinary Assistant: We can help you have a job you love and the life you want. Island Animal Hospital is an established hospital in Mercer Island, WA and part of the Cara Network of ...

New

Vetcor

Veterinary Assistant

Gig Harbor, WA

$20 - $23/hr

Veterinary Assistant Status: Full-time Salary: $20.00-$23.00 per hour, based on experience Schedule: Monday-Thursday 8 am-5 pm Benefits Highlights Financial Rewards that Grow with You: Competitive ...

Banfield Pet Hospital

Veterinary Assistant

Puyallup, WA · On-site

$17 - $21.25/hr

Veterinary Assistant Careers at Banfield Pet Hospital 18.40 - 20.44 - 26.57 USD Hourly For those who want to put their love of pets into action, there are few jobs more rewarding than that of Vet ...

Cara Veterinary

Veterinary Assistant

Seattle, WA · On-site

$22 - $25/hr

Description Veterinary Assistant: We can help you have a job you love and the life you want. Roosevelt Animal Hospital is an established hospital in Seattle, WA and part of the Cara Network of ...

Banfield Pet Hospital

Veterinary Assistant

Puyallup, WA · On-site

$17 - $21.25/hr

Veterinary Assistant Careers at Banfield Pet Hospital This posting will remain open for a minimum of two weeks from the posting date. For those who want to put their love of pets into action, there ...

Vetcor

Veterinary Assistant

Tacoma, WA · On-site

$20 - $22/hr

Experienced Veterinary Assistant Status: Full-time Salary: $20.00-$22.00 per hour, based on experience Schedule: Flexible Monday-Friday schedule with no nights, weekends, or holiday hours Benefits ...

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All JobsVeterinary JobsVeterinary Assistant JobsVeterinary Assistant Jobs in Seattle, WA

Veterinary Assistant information

See Seattle, WA salary details

$11

$19

$27

How much do veterinary assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for veterinary assistant in Seattle, WA is $19.63, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.26 and $21.63 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 in veterinary technology.

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 coursework or certifications. Entry-level roles provide opportunities to gain practical experience in a veterinary setting.

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 training 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.

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 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 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.

Is becoming a veterinary assistant worth it?

Veterinary assistants perform basic animal care, assist veterinarians, and often work in clinics or animal hospitals. The role typically requires a high school diploma or equivalent and offers opportunities for on-the-job training, with job growth driven by increasing pet ownership and demand for veterinary services.
More about Veterinary Assistant jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Veterinary jobs in Seattle, WA?

The most popular types of Veterinary jobs in Seattle, WA are:

What are popular job titles related to Veterinary Assistant jobs in Seattle, WA?

For Veterinary Assistant jobs in Seattle, WA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Veterinary Assistant jobs in Seattle, WA look for?

The top searched job categories for Veterinary Assistant jobs in Seattle, WA are:

What cities near Seattle, WA are hiring for Veterinary Assistant jobs?

Cities near Seattle, WA with the most Veterinary Assistant job openings:

Veterinary Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Veterinary Assistant job openings in Seattle, WA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% As Needed, 71% Full Time, and 26% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $40,832 per year, or $19.6 per hour.

Veterinary Assistant

National Veterinary Associates

Sumner, WA

$20 - $23/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 3 days ago

New

Job description

Veterinary Assistant

Sumner Veterinary Hospital | Sumner, WA

Are you looking for a veterinary assistant role where you'll gain hands-on experience, work alongside an experienced team, and make a meaningful impact on both patients and clients?

Sumner Veterinary Hospital is looking for full-time Veterinary Assistants to join our collaborative, fast-paced team! As a 24-hour AAHA-accredited hospital, we offer a unique opportunity to work in a hospital that provides General Practice, Emergency Care, Rehabilitation, Grooming, Lodging, Daycare, and Training-all under one roof.

With 14 doctors, 11 Licensed Veterinary Technicians, 33 Veterinary Assistants, and 40 support staff, you'll be surrounded by knowledgeable teammates who are passionate about mentoring, collaboration, and providing exceptional patient care.

Why You'll Love Working Here

  • AAHA-accredited 24-hour hospital
  • Exposure to both general practice and emergency medicine
  • Work alongside a large, experienced medical team
  • Opportunities to learn and grow your technical skills
  • Long-tenured team members, with some having been here 20+ years
  • Active involvement in the community through local events and partnerships with organizations like Tacoma Humane Society

What You'll Do

Responsibilities are performed in accordance with Washington State regulations for Veterinary Assistants and may include:

  • Support veterinarians and Licensed Veterinary Technicians during appointments and procedures
  • Assist with patient restraint, treatments, diagnostics, and nursing care
  • Prepare patients for surgery and procedures
  • Maintain accurate medical records
  • Provide compassionate client communication and education
  • Help create an exceptional experience for every client and patient
  • Work collaboratively across departments to deliver outstanding patient care

What We're Looking For

  • Veterinary assistant experience preferred
  • Positive attitude and willingness to learn
  • Strong communication and teamwork skills
  • Passion for both patient care and client experience
  • Ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment

Schedule

Full-Time

Available schedules include:

  • Sunday-Wednesday | 7:00 AM - 6:00 PM
  • Wednesday-Saturday | 7:00 AM - 6:00 PM

Weekends and holidays are required.

Compensation & Benefits

  • $20-23/hour DOE
  • NVA Medical, Dental & Vision Benefits
  • 401(k)
  • Paid Time Off
  • Continuing Education support
  • Uniform allowance
  • Employee pet care discounts
  • Career growth opportunities

If you're looking to join a hospital where teamwork, learning, and exceptional client service come together every day, we'd love to hear from you!


NVA logo

About NVA

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Nashville Veterinary Specialists + Animal Emergency (NVS) is a veterinary specialty and emergency hospital group with two locations in Nashville and Clarksville, Tennessee. Our Mission and primary focus is to honor the human-animal bond in all we do, focusing on patient care, client experience, and the health of our team. We believe we can never stop improving and strive to improve in all we do. Not only do we focus on patient care, but core to our hospital culture is also a focus on the health of our team, our community, and the environment. We are committed to sustainable environmental practices. NVS works in partnership with National Veterinary Associates-Compassion-First (NVA C-F). NVA-CF is the largest private owner of freestanding veterinary hospitals in North America with over 1400 locations worldwide.

Headquarters location

Agoura Hills, CA, US

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