ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Veterinary Assistant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

American Veterinary Group

Veterinary Assistant

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$15.25 - $19.25/hr

Veterinary Assistant Department: General Practice Hospitals Employment Type: Full Time Location: Raleigh Community Animal Hospital Reporting To: Gatlin Ives Description Our hospital is seeking a ...

American Veterinary Group

Veterinary Assistant

Montgomery, AL · On-site

$13 - $16.50/hr

Veterinary Assistant Department: General Practice Hospitals Employment Type: Full Time Location: Pet Care Center Reporting To: Practice Manager Description Our hospital is seeking a Veterinary ...

American Veterinary Group

Veterinary Assistant

Apex, NC · On-site

$14.50 - $18.25/hr

Veterinary Assistant Department: General Practice Hospitals Employment Type: Full Time Location: Animal Hospital of Peak Plaza Reporting To: Practice Manager Description Our hospital is seeking a ...

American Veterinary Group

Veterinary Assistant

Sarasota, FL · On-site

$15.25 - $19/hr

Veterinary Assistant Department: General Practice Hospitals Employment Type: Full Time Location: Forest Lakes Animal Clinic Reporting To: Practice Manager Description Our hospital is seeking a ...

American Veterinary Group

Veterinary Assistant

Douglas, GA · On-site

$12.50 - $15.75/hr

Veterinary Assistant Department: General Practice Hospitals Employment Type: Full Time Location: Lindsey & Wills Animal Hospital Reporting To: Practice Manager Description Our hospital is seeking a ...

American Veterinary Group

Veterinary Assistant

Columbus, GA · On-site

$13.75 - $17.25/hr

Veterinary Assistant Department: General Practice Hospitals Employment Type: Full Time Location: Animal General Hospital Description Our hospital is seeking a Veterinary Assistant to help provide ...

Regal Veterinary Center

Veterinary Assistant

Spokane, WA · On-site

$17.50 - $19/hr

Veterinary Assistant Status: Full-time Salary: $17.50 - $19.00 per hour, based on qualifications and experience Schedule: Four-day work week with one-hour lunch breaks; Rotating Saturday shifts ...

American Veterinary Group

Veterinary Assistant

Laurinburg, NC · On-site

$12.50 - $15.75/hr

Veterinary Assistant Department: General Practice Hospitals Employment Type: Full Time Location: Academy Animal Hospital of Laurinburg Reporting To: Practice Manager Description Our hospital is ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsVeterinary JobsVeterinary Assistant Jobs

Veterinary Assistant information

See salary details

$10

$17

$23

How much do veterinary assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for veterinary assistant in the United States is $17.24, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.14 and $18.99 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 cities are hiring for Veterinary Assistant jobs? Cities with the most Veterinary Assistant job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Veterinary jobs? The most popular types of Veterinary jobs are:
Who are the top companies hiring for Veterinary Assistant jobs? The top employers for Veterinary Assistant jobs are:
What states have the most Veterinary Assistant jobs? States with the most job openings for Veterinary Assistant jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Veterinary Assistant jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Veterinary Assistant jobs are:
Veterinary Assistant jobs near you

Veterinary Assistant

East Lansing Veterinary Clinic

East Lansing, MI • On-site

$15.25 - $19/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 16 days ago

Job description

Who we are:
East Lansing Veterinary Clinic is Hiring an Experienced Veterinary Assistant!
Position Details
Role: Experienced Veterinary Assistant
Status: Full-time
Salary: Negotiable and based on experience
Schedule: 4-day work week; no weekends
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
Looking for a Veterinary Assistant Role Where You Can Grow Your Skills and Love Where You Work?
East Lansing Veterinary Clinic is searching for an experienced Veterinary Assistant to join our compassionate, collaborative team. For nearly 30 years, we've been dedicated to providing exceptional veterinary care while creating a supportive environment where employees can learn, grow, and enjoy coming to work every day.
If you're passionate about patient care, thrive in a fast-paced hospital, and enjoy working with both companion animals and exotic pets, we'd love to meet you.
Why Our Veterinary Assistants Love East Lansing Veterinary Clinic
  • Supportive, team-oriented hospital culture
  • Opportunities to work with both companion animals and exotic species
  • No weekend hours, allowing for excellent work-life balance
  • Leadership committed to mentorship and professional growth
  • A collaborative environment where every team member is valued
  • Opportunities to expand your technical skills while practicing high-quality medicine

What You'll Do
  • Assist veterinarians and technicians during examinations and treatments
  • Safely restrain patients during examinations and procedures
  • Assist with laboratory procedures and diagnostic testing
  • Obtain radiographs and support patient diagnostics
  • Communicate with clients regarding patient care and treatment plans
  • Maintain accurate medical records and patient documentation
  • Support daily hospital operations while maintaining a clean and organized environment
  • Deliver compassionate care to both companion animals and exotic patients

What Our Veterinary Assistants Bring
  • Previous veterinary assistant experience required
  • Passion for animal care and patient advocacy
  • Strong communication and client service skills
  • Ability to multitask in a fast-paced environment
  • Positive attitude and collaborative approach to teamwork
  • Strong organizational skills and attention to detail
  • Willingness to continue learning and growing professionally

The Extras You'll Actually Feel
  • A workplace where teamwork and collaboration come first
  • Mentorship from experienced veterinary professionals
  • Opportunities to continue learning and developing your technical skills
  • A hospital culture that values work-life balance
  • Meaningful work making a difference for pets and the families who love them

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!
If you're looking for a Veterinary Assistant role where your contributions are appreciated, your professional growth is encouraged, and you'll make a meaningful impact every day, we'd love to hear from you. Apply today and discover why East Lansing Veterinary Clinic is a great place to build your veterinary career!
Diversity, equity, and inclusion are core values at East Lansing Veterinary Clinic 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.

Apply