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Veterinary Assistant Jobs in Springfield, MA (NOW HIRING)

NVA

Veterinary Technician

Chicopee, MA · On-site

Perform routine animal dental procedures and assist veterinarians with oral surgery Physical Requirements * Physically demanding * Combination of sitting, standing, walking Personal Suitability

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All JobsVeterinary JobsVeterinary Assistant JobsVeterinary Assistant Jobs in Springfield, MA

Veterinary Assistant information

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$10

$17

$23

How much do veterinary assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 15, 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 pay.

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.

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.

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 handle animals safely are important for this role.

Is 30 too late to become a vet?

Veterinary assistants can start their careers at any age, and becoming a veterinarian typically requires completing a bachelor's degree and a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) program, which can be pursued at any age. Many people enter veterinary school later in life, so 30 is not too late to pursue a career in veterinary medicine or related roles in animal care.

Can I be a vet assistant with no experience?

Veterinary assistants often do not need prior experience to start, 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 certifications or coursework in animal care.
More about Veterinary Assistant jobs
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 job categories do people searching Veterinary Assistant jobs in Springfield, MA look for? The top searched job categories for Veterinary Assistant jobs in Springfield, MA are:
What cities near Springfield, MA are hiring for Veterinary Assistant jobs? Cities near Springfield, MA with the most Veterinary Assistant job openings:
Veterinary Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Veterinary Assistant job openings in Springfield, MA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, and 50% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $35,734 per year, or $17.2 per hour.
Certified Veterinary Technician – Neurology - Sign on bonus!

Certified Veterinary Technician – Neurology - Sign on bonus!

Pieper Veterinary

Windsor, CT • On-site

$25 - $32/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 14 days ago

Job description

Description:
Pieper Veterinary is seeking a compassionate and dedicated Certified Veterinary Technician to join our Neurology Department at Pieper Memorial Veterinary Center, a VECCS Level I Facility in Middletown, CT. If you are a self-starter looking for a unique opportunity to expand your skills and dive deep into the fascinating world of animal neurology, this is the role for you.

Join our team and play a vital role in providing compassionate, cutting-edge care to patients with neurological conditions, working alongside experienced specialists in a supportive, collaborative environment.

Our vision is simple: to make the community and the animals and people in it happier and healthier.

What to Expect:

  • Commitment to Continuing Education: We want to retain and develop our talent to the best of our ability. You can expect numerous in-house CE opportunities, and any mentoring available to support and achieve your VTS goals.
  • Career Advancement: We pride ourselves on recognizing top talent and strong work ethic and if you demonstrate those things, you can expect to be promoted from within.
  • Environment of Belonging: With so many specialties at your fingertips, it's easy to find where you fit. We also promote an environment of inclusivity so that everyone feels welcome.
  • Environment of Collaboration: Our VECCS Level 1 Certified Hospital includes specialists in Emergency & Critical Care, Neurology, Internal Medicine, Radiology, Oncology, Surgery and Exotics and a full staff of experienced Emergency and Primary Care Veterinarians. With the support of their technicians, assistants, and liaisons the hospital teams work closely together to deliver the highest quality of care.

About You:
We believe veterinary medicine is truly a team sport, and we re looking for a candidate who shares that mindset. Strong communication skills both with clients and colleagues are essential, as this role requires confidence in navigating interpersonal and client interactions with ease.

We are seeking an experienced Certified Veterinary Technician who is comfortable with restraint, venipuncture, and anesthesia. Our ideal candidate has a genuine passion for anesthetic protocols and surgical procedures, while also managing the meticulous details that come with a specialty practice.

Experience with CPR, EzyVet, and SmartFlow is a plus, but not required. We highly value collaboration and input from all team members, so your insights and contributions are not only welcomed they can make a real difference in patient care and team success.

Anticipated schedule:
4 days a week / 10-hour shifts.
Weekend shifts and holidays are required.

Compensation:

  • Starting at $25.00-$32.00/hour dependent upon experience and education.
  • Additional compensation for VTS
  • Sign on bonus - $1,000

What's in it for you?

  • Supportive culture with social events & team building
  • Competitive paid time off & holidays
  • Career Growth & Training Opportunities
  • Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance
  • Mental Health Focused Services
  • 401(k) plan with strong employer match
  • Up to 75% employee pet care discount
  • Annual uniform allowance
  • Team building

We know it's not always easy to make a move. We treat all interviews as confidential and if a casual chat is more your style, we can do that too! We genuinely love what we do and the people we work with!

Requirements:
  • 1-3 years Veterinary Technician experience.
  • Associates in Veterinary Technology is a plus.
  • CVT license is a plus.
  • Phlebotomy
  • IV Catheterization (peripheral)
  • Experience providing nursing care and husbandry for admitted patients.
  • Knowledge of basic laboratory tests.
  • Knowledge of the use, care, and storage of veterinary instruments, materials, and equipment.
  • Knowledge of principles and processes for providing client and personal services. his includes client needs assessment, meeting quality standards for services, and evaluation of client satisfaction.
  • Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition, and grammar.
  • Ability to work independently on assigned tasks as well as to accept direction on given assignments.
  • Must be 18 years or older to apply

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