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Veterinary Care Assistant Jobs in Raleigh, NC (NOW HIRING)

American Veterinary Group

Veterinary Assistant

Chapel Hill, NC · On-site

$13 - $16.50/hr

The Veterinary Assistant is responsible for assisting Veterinarians in the care of animals. The Assistant helps during initial examinations by restraining animals when necessary, stocking examination ...

Park Veterinary Hospital

Veterinary Assistant

Durham, NC · On-site

$15 - $21/hr

Park Veterinary Hospital & Urgent Care | Durham, NC Schedule: Full-time | Four 10-hour shifts | Rotating weekends | Hospital open 7 days a week If you're an experienced Veterinary Assistant looking ...

Petfolk

Veterinary Assistant

Cary, NC · On-site

$16 - $20.25/hr

At Petfolk, we're reshaping veterinary care by blending high-quality medicine with a welcoming ... Veterinary Assistant - Future Opportunities Help Us Redefine Pet Care. Join the Petfolk Talent ...

Petfolk

Veterinary Assistant

Cary, NC · On-site

$16 - $20.25/hr

At Petfolk, we're reshaping veterinary care by blending high-quality medicine with a welcoming ... Veterinary Assistant - Future Opportunities Help Us Redefine Pet Care. Join the Petfolk Talent ...

Petfolk

Veterinary Assistant

Cary, NC · On-site

$14.50 - $18.25/hr

At Petfolk, we're reshaping veterinary care by blending high-quality medicine with a welcoming ... Veterinary Assistant - Future Opportunities Help Us Redefine Pet Care. Join the Petfolk Talent ...

EverVet Partners

Veterinary Assistant

Wake Forest, NC

$17 - $21/hr

Why You'll Love this Veterinary Assistant Job! If you are passionate about animals and excited ... Discounted Veterinary Care * On-Demand Pay Options * Referral Bonus Career Enhancement Benefits:

Community Veterinary Partners

Vet Assistant

Garner, NC · On-site

$16 - $20/hr

At Carolina Ranch Animal Hospital , we believe exceptional veterinary care begins with a dedicated and supportive team. We are seeking an experienced Veterinary Assistant who thrives in a hands-on ...

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Veterinary Care Assistant information

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How much do veterinary care assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for veterinary care assistant in Raleigh, NC is $16.76, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.71 and $18.46 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a veterinary care assistant?

Veterinary Care Assistants (VCAs) are support staff in veterinary practices who help veterinarians and veterinary nurses care for animals. Their duties typically include feeding and exercising animals, cleaning kennels, assisting with routine procedures, and maintaining equipment and supplies. VCAs play a vital role in ensuring the well-being of animal patients and the smooth operation of the clinic. They do not diagnose or prescribe treatments but are essential team members who assist with day-to-day animal care tasks.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a veterinary care assistant?

To thrive as a Veterinary Care Assistant, you need basic animal care knowledge, manual dexterity, and often a relevant qualification such as an animal care certificate. Familiarity with veterinary practice management software, animal restraint techniques, and sterilization equipment is commonly required. Compassion, patience, and strong communication skills help you support both animals and their owners effectively. These skills and qualities are crucial for ensuring animal welfare, smooth clinic operations, and positive client experiences.

What are some common challenges veterinary care assistants face, and how can they effectively manage them?

Veterinary Care Assistants often juggle multiple responsibilities, such as assisting with animal handling, maintaining cleanliness, and supporting veterinary staff during procedures. A common challenge is managing the emotional demands of caring for sick or injured animals while maintaining professionalism with clients. Effective time management, clear communication with team members, and developing coping strategies for emotional stress are key to success in this role. Many clinics also offer mentorship and training to help assistants build resilience and grow their skills.

What is the difference between Veterinary Care Assistant vs Veterinary Technician?

AspectVeterinary Care AssistantVeterinary Technician
CredentialsTypically no formal certification required, on-the-job trainingRequires certification or associate degree in veterinary technology
Work EnvironmentAssist with basic animal care, cleaning, and client communicationPerform diagnostic tests, administer medications, assist in surgeries
Employer & Industry UsageCommonly employed in clinics, animal hospitals, sheltersOften work alongside veterinarians in similar settings

The main difference between a Veterinary Care Assistant and a Veterinary Technician lies in their qualifications and responsibilities. Veterinary Care Assistants typically have less formal training and focus on basic animal care and support tasks. Veterinary Technicians have specialized training and perform more complex medical procedures. Both roles are essential in veterinary practices, but Veterinary Technicians usually have a broader scope of practice and responsibilities.

Can I be a veterinary care assistant with no experience?

Veterinary care assistants often do not need 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 certifications or coursework. Entry-level positions typically focus on supporting veterinary staff and gaining practical experience.

How do you become a veterinary care assistant?

To become a veterinary care assistant, individuals typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and may pursue on-the-job training or certification programs. Relevant skills include animal handling, basic medical knowledge, and good communication, with some employers preferring prior experience or certification in animal care or veterinary assisting.

Where do veterinary care assistants make the most money?

Veterinary care assistants tend to earn higher salaries in regions with a higher cost of living and greater demand for veterinary services, such as urban areas or states with a strong pet care industry. Salary levels can also be influenced by experience, certifications, and the size of the veterinary practice or hospital.

What are the most commonly searched types of Veterinary Care jobs in Raleigh, NC?

The most popular types of Veterinary Care jobs in Raleigh, NC are:

What cities near Raleigh, NC are hiring for Veterinary Care Assistant jobs?

Cities near Raleigh, NC with the most Veterinary Care Assistant job openings:

Veterinary Care Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Veterinary Care Assistant job openings in Raleigh, NC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $34,856 per year, or $16.8 per hour.

Veterinary Surgical Technician or Assistant

Points East Veterinary Specialty Hospital

Sims, NC • On-site

$14.50 - $18.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 27 days ago

Job description

Description:

Points East Veterinary Specialty Hospital is currently seeking a Veterinary Technician or Assistant to join a strong team of specialty doctors as we expand and grow.


Points East is proud to be the only specialty hospital east of Raleigh, serving patients across North Carolina and southern Virginia. As a privately owned, VECCS-certified Level III hospital, we operate out of a brand-new, state-of-the-art facility. Our collaborative team is committed to advancing veterinary care in our community, free from the influence of non-medical private investors.


Located in Wilson, NC, Points East proudly offers specialty care across multiple disciplines, including board-certified Surgery, Critical Care, and Internal Medicine. These services are further supported by our Advanced Diagnostic Imaging with board-certified review to ensure the highest standard of accuracy and care.


With the most up-to-date diagnostic techniques, advanced treatment options, and round-the-clock staffing by both veterinarians and support staff, pets in North Carolina can receive exceptional, comprehensive specialty care close to home.


Responsibilities:

  • Surgical Assistance: Provide support to veterinarians during surgical procedures, including patient positioning, surgical site preparation, and providing the necessary surgical instruments and supplies.
  • Sterile Techniques: Maintain strict sterile techniques and adherence to aseptic protocols during surgical procedures to prevent infections and promote patient safety.
  • Surgical Preparation: Assist with the preparation of surgical equipment, instruments, and supplies needed for procedures.
  • Anesthesia Monitoring: Assist in the administration and monitoring of anesthesia during surgical procedures, including endotracheal intubation, monitoring vital signs, and maintaining anesthesia records.
  • Surgical Instrument Care: Clean, sterilize, and maintain surgical instruments and equipment, ensuring proper functioning and availability for procedures.
  • Patient Monitoring: Continuously monitor patients' vital signs, anesthesia depth, and overall well-being during surgical procedures and recovery.
  • Postoperative Care: Assist with postoperative care, including wound management, bandage application, and administration of medications as directed by the veterinary team


Preferred Qualifications:

  • Certified Veterinary Technician (CVT), Licensed Veterinary Technician (LVT), or Registered Veterinary Technician (RVT)
  • Minimum of 3 years of surgical experience
  • Surgical Knowledge and Skills: Proficient understanding of surgical procedures, aseptic techniques, and surgical instrument handling.
  • Anesthesia Monitoring: Experience in administering and monitoring anesthesia during surgical procedures

Perks and benefits include:

  • Tuition assistance
  • A choice between two medical plans with prescription drug benefits
  • Dental and vision coverage available
  • 401(k) Savings Plan with employer match, including immediate vesting
  • Life insurance for yourself, spouse and eligible dependents available
  • Paid time off / holidays
  • Health Savings Account available
  • Short term disability available
  • Supplemental critical illness and accident plans available
  • Uniform allowance
  • Continuing education allowance for credentialed technicians
  • Employee assistance program

We provide equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws.

Requirements:


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