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Veterinary Helper Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Mediapolis Veterinary Clinic

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Veterinary Technician

Mediapolis, IA · On-site

$13 - $20/hr

Helping create an exceptional experience for every client and patient You won't be stuck doing the same thing every day--and that's exactly what makes this job so rewarding! WHO WE'RE LOOKING FOR We ...

New

Mediapolis Veterinary Clinic

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Veterinary Technician

Mediapolis, IA · On-site

$13 - $20/hr

Helping create an exceptional experience for every client and patient You won't be stuck doing the same thing every day--and that's exactly what makes this job so rewarding! WHO WE'RE LOOKING FOR We ...

New

Mediapolis Veterinary Clinic

Be Seen First

Veterinary Technician

Mediapolis, IA · On-site

$13 - $20/hr

Helping create an exceptional experience for every client and patient You won't be stuck doing the same thing every day--and that's exactly what makes this job so rewarding! WHO WE'RE LOOKING FOR We ...

New

Abqpetcarehospital

Managing Veterinarian

Clive, IA · On-site

$150 - $210/hr

... small animal veterinary hospital in the Des Moines, Iowa metro area. This is an outstanding ... Help shape the medical direction of the hospital * Collaborate on hospital strategy and continued ...

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Veterinary Helper information

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$9

$16

$20

How much do veterinary helper jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for veterinary helper in Iowa is $16.35, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.23 and $16.25 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a veterinary helper?

Veterinary helpers, also known as veterinary assistants, support veterinarians and veterinary technicians in animal clinics, hospitals, and shelters. They are responsible for tasks such as feeding and bathing animals, cleaning cages, sterilizing equipment, and assisting with basic animal care under supervision. Their work ensures that animals are comfortable and that medical procedures run smoothly. Veterinary helpers play a crucial role in maintaining the cleanliness and efficiency of veterinary facilities, allowing veterinarians to focus on diagnosing and treating animals. They may also interact with pet owners, providing information and reassurance as needed.

What skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as a veterinary helper?

To thrive as a Veterinary Helper, you need a basic understanding of animal care, handling techniques, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with veterinary practice management software, basic lab equipment, and animal restraint tools is commonly required. Compassion, attention to detail, and strong teamwork skills help you support veterinarians and reassure pet owners. These skills ensure safe, efficient animal care and contribute to a positive environment for both animals and staff.

What are common challenges veterinary helpers face when assisting with animal care and clinic operations?

Veterinary Helpers often encounter challenges such as handling anxious or aggressive animals, maintaining a clean and sanitized environment, and managing multiple tasks during busy appointment times. They must be prepared for physically demanding work, including lifting animals and standing for extended periods. Additionally, Veterinary Helpers work closely with veterinarians and technicians, requiring strong communication skills and the ability to follow detailed instructions to ensure the well-being of both patients and staff.

What is the difference between Veterinary Helper vs Veterinary Technician?

AspectVeterinary HelperVeterinary Technician
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; on-the-job trainingAssociate degree in veterinary technology; certification often required
Work EnvironmentAnimal clinics, shelters, kennels, farmsVeterinary clinics, hospitals, specialty practices
Job ResponsibilitiesAssist with animal care, cleaning, feeding, basic restraintPerform diagnostic tests, administer medications, assist during surgeries

Veterinary Helpers typically have minimal formal education and focus on basic animal care tasks, working under supervision. Veterinary Technicians have specialized training and perform more complex medical procedures, often working more independently. Both roles are essential in animal healthcare but differ in education, responsibilities, and scope of practice.

What are the most commonly searched types of Veterinary jobs in Iowa?

The most popular types of Veterinary jobs in Iowa are:

What cities in Iowa are hiring for Veterinary Helper jobs?

Cities in Iowa with the most Veterinary Helper job openings:

Veterinary Helper jobs near you
Infographic showing various Veterinary Helper job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Locum Tenens, 2% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 19% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $34,012 per year, or $16.4 per hour.

Managing Veterinarian

Davenport, IA

National Veterinary Associates
See more jobs at National Veterinary Associatesexternal

$150K/yr

Full-time

Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 18 days ago

Job description

Twin Bridges Animal Hospital is looking for a Managing Veterinarian (DVM) to join our established small animal practice in Davenport, Iowa. This is an exciting opportunity for an experienced veterinarian who wants to combine high-quality medicine with meaningful leadership, mentorship, and practice growth.

Our full-service hospital cares for dogs, cats, and pocket pets. You'll have the tools and team to practice confidently, including digital radiography, ultrasound, surgical laser, an in-house IDEXX laboratory, a dedicated surgical suite, and four fully equipped exam rooms.

You'll work alongside an experienced support team while mentoring fellow veterinarians, helping guide hospital culture, and playing a key role in the practice's continued growth.

What's In It for You?
  • $150,000+ base salary plus leadership incentives
  • 4+ weeks of PTO
  • 401(k) with company match
  • Potential for practice ownership/equity
  • Advanced CE and leadership development opportunities
The NVA Advantage

As part of National Veterinary Associates (NVA), you'll have access to resources designed to support both your clinical and leadership goals:

  • Hands-on surgical and clinical training through the PetOne Veterinary Training Center
  • NVA's industry-leading Mentorship Program with dedicated one-on-one support
  • Support for pursuing ABVP certification while practicing
  • No non-compete agreement, giving you flexibility throughout your career
  • 100% company-paid Short-Term Disability insurance, including qualifying pregnancy, maternity, and parental leave
  • Ongoing professional development and leadership opportunities
  • Future partnership and ownership opportunities for doctors interested in practice leadership

If you're ready to take the next step in your veterinary career while having a real voice in the future of a growing practice, Twin Bridges Animal Hospital could be the opportunity you've been waiting for.

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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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