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Veterinary Assistant Jobs in Springfield, MA (NOW HIRING)

Veterinary Assistant

Simsbury, CT

$16 - $20/hr

Role: Veterinary Assistant * Status: Full-time * Salary: Negotiable and based on experience * Schedule: Monday through Thursday/Friday, minimum of 30 hours Benefits Highlights * Financial Rewards ...

Veterinary Assistant

Longmeadow, MA · On-site

$19 - $24/hr

VCA Shaker Road Animal Hospital is hiring a full time Veterinary Assistant to join our team! About Us We are a 2 -doctor full service veterinary hospital offering primary care, illness care, surgery ...

Veterinary Assistant

Palmer, MA · On-site

$18 - $22/hr

VCA Palmer Animal Hospital is hiring a full time Veterinary Assistant to join our team! About Us We are a 4-doctor full service veterinary hospital offering primary care, illness care, surgery and ...

Veterinary Assistant

Palmer, MA · On-site

$18 - $22/hr

VCA Palmer Animal Hospital is hiring a full time Veterinary Assistant to join our team! About Us We are a 4-doctor full service veterinary hospital offering primary care, illness care, surgery and ...

Veterinary Assistant

Longmeadow, MA · On-site

$19 - $24/hr

VCA Shaker Road Animal Hospital is hiring a full time Veterinary Assistant to join our team! About Us We are a 2 -doctor full service veterinary hospital offering primary care, illness care, surgery ...

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Veterinary Assistant information

See Springfield, MA salary details

$10

$17

$23

How much do veterinary assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for veterinary assistant in Springfield, MA is $17.18, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.10 and $18.94 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.
What are the most commonly searched types of Veterinary jobs in Springfield, MA? The most popular types of Veterinary jobs in Springfield, MA are:
What are popular job titles related to Veterinary Assistant jobs in Springfield, MA? For Veterinary Assistant jobs in Springfield, MA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities near Springfield, MA are hiring for Veterinary Assistant jobs? Cities near Springfield, MA with the most Veterinary Assistant job openings:
Infographic showing various Veterinary Assistant job openings in Springfield, MA as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 57% Full Time, and 43% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $35,734 per year, or $17.2 per hour.

$16 - $20/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 19 days ago


Job description

Who we are:

Simsbury Veterinary Hospital is Hiring a Veterinary Assistant!

Position Details

  • Role: Veterinary Assistant
  • Status: Full-time
  • Salary: Negotiable and based on experience
  • Schedule:  Monday through Thursday/Friday, minimum of 30 hours

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

About Us

Simsbury Veterinary Hospital is passionate about providing exceptional care to pets and the people who love them. We are a supportive, team-oriented practice that values collaboration, growth, and a positive work environment. Our goal is to create healthier lives for our patients while ensuring our team members enjoy a balanced, rewarding career.

Why Our Veterinary Assistants Love Simsbury Veterinary Hospital

  • No late nights, Sundays, or holiday shifts
  • Supportive, fun, and collaborative team culture
  • Strong focus on work-life balance
  • Opportunities for learning, growth, and mentorship
  • Meaningful work making a difference for pets and families

What You'll Do

  • Assist veterinarians and technicians with patient care and treatments
  • Obtain patient histories and maintain accurate medical records
  • Administer and dispense medications as directed
  • Support preventative care services, including vaccines
  • Practice low-stress handling techniques for patient comfort and safety

What Our Veterinary Assistants Bring

  • Previous veterinary assistant experience required
  • Knowledge of preventative care and vaccines
  • Experience with medication administration and patient care
  • Strong attention to detail and organizational skills
  • Compassionate, team-oriented mindset
  • Excellent communication skills

Benefits You Can't Beat

Financial Benefits

  • A flexible approach to compensation that reflects your skill set 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
  • State license reimbursement
  • VTNE exam fee reimbursement
  • Professional development opportunities
  • Continuing education allowance
  • Uniform allowance

Lifestyle Benefits

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

Join Our Team!

Are you the veterinary assistant we're looking for? If you're ready to grow your career, work with a supportive team, and make a meaningful impact every day, we'd love to meet you-apply today!

Diversity, equity, and inclusion are core values at Simsbury Veterinary 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