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Veterinary Intern Jobs in Seattle, WA (NOW HIRING)

Veterinary Intern information

See Seattle, WA salary details

$8

$18

$31

How much do veterinary intern jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average hourly pay for veterinary intern in Seattle, WA is $18.62, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.31 and $20.55 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a veterinary intern?

Veterinary Interns are recent veterinary school graduates who participate in a structured, supervised training program, typically lasting one year, at a veterinary hospital or clinic. This internship allows them to gain advanced practical experience in areas such as medicine, surgery, and emergency care under the guidance of experienced veterinarians. The goal is to further develop clinical skills, deepen medical knowledge, and prepare for potential specialization or residency programs. Veterinary internships are common in both small animal and large animal practices and are often seen as a stepping stone to advanced veterinary careers.

What are some typical challenges faced by veterinary interns during their internship year?

Veterinary Interns often encounter the challenge of managing a steep learning curve while adapting to a fast-paced clinical environment. Balancing long hours, emergency cases, and overnight shifts can be demanding, particularly when transitioning from academic settings to practical, hands-on patient care. Interns are expected to quickly develop clinical judgment, communication skills, and the ability to collaborate with experienced veterinarians, technicians, and support staff. Building confidence while seeking mentorship and feedback is essential for success and professional growth in this role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a veterinary intern, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Veterinary Intern, you need a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) degree, foundational clinical skills, and a strong understanding of animal health and diagnostics. Familiarity with veterinary practice management software, laboratory equipment, and diagnostic imaging tools is typically required. Strong communication, teamwork, and adaptability are vital soft skills for interacting with clients and collaborating with veterinary staff. These skills and qualities are essential for providing effective patient care, learning in a fast-paced environment, and laying the groundwork for a successful veterinary career.

What is the difference between Veterinary Intern vs Veterinary Technician?

AspectVeterinary InternVeterinary Technician
Required CredentialsTypically enrolled in veterinary school or recent graduateLicensed or certified veterinary technician
Work EnvironmentVeterinary clinics, hospitals, research facilitiesVeterinary clinics, hospitals, laboratories
Employer & Industry UsageVeterinary schools, hospitals, research institutionsVeterinary clinics, animal hospitals, labs
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding training roles in veterinary medicineCareer path and certification details

Veterinary interns are typically veterinary students gaining practical experience during or after their studies, while veterinary technicians are licensed professionals providing ongoing support in animal care. Interns focus on learning and observation, whereas technicians perform technical tasks and assist veterinarians regularly.

Are veterinary internships worth it?

Veterinary internships provide hands-on experience, skill development, and industry exposure that can enhance a candidate’s qualifications and job prospects. They often include mentorship, training in clinical procedures, and networking opportunities, making them valuable for those pursuing a veterinary career.

How to get a veterinary internship?

To obtain a veterinary internship, candidates typically need to have completed relevant coursework in veterinary medicine and possess basic animal handling skills. Applying through veterinary schools, animal hospitals, or research institutions, and demonstrating strong academic performance and a passion for animal care, can improve chances. Some internships may require certifications such as CPR or animal first aid.

What are the most commonly searched types of Veterinary jobs in Seattle, WA?

The most popular types of Veterinary jobs in Seattle, WA are:

What cities near Seattle, WA are hiring for Veterinary Intern jobs?

Cities near Seattle, WA with the most Veterinary Intern job openings:

Infographic showing various Veterinary Intern job openings in Seattle, WA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 18% Internship, 1% As Needed, 54% Full Time, 24% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,734 per year, or $18.6 per hour.

Veterinary Radiologist

Lynnwood, WA

$175K - $300K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 23 days ago


Job description

Description

The Veterinary Specialty Center of Seattle is seeking an additional Board Certified Veterinary Radiologist to join our AAHA-accredited, multi-specialty practice in Lynnwood, Washington—located just north of Seattle. 

The ideal candidate: 

  • Is an engaged​, reliable​, and collaborative team member
  • Is a lifelong learner who also enjoys teaching
  • ​Is an efficient multi-tasker
  • Willing to work 1 weekend day

Among the reasons to join VSC of Seattle, you will find: 

  • A dynamic, talented team that ​emphasizes a collaborative ​approach to patient care
  • ​A 24/7 hospital with outstanding ER and specialty services​, including Internal Medicine, Cardiology, Critical Care, Neurology, Oncology, Radiology, and Surgery
  • Abundant CE opportunities for doctors and staff
  • ​Opportunities to engage in clinical research studies
  • Opportunities to give back through strong community partnerships with area shelters and other rescue organizations

A​t VSC of Seattle we share a passion for ​high-quality medicine​; compassion for pets, their families, and each other; and a commitment to professional growth​ and development. 

Our core values are based upon caring for our patients, their families, and each other. We pride ourselves on the education of the team and the referring veterinary community and we conduct daily rounds, a weekly doctor and intern lecture series as well as technician lectures geared toward continued learning. 

Our custom-built, 24,000 sq. ft. facility is well-equipped with in-house 1.5 Tesla MRI, a state of the art digital imaging system to include a 64-slice CT, fluoroscopy and C-arm, laparoscopy, endoscopy, arthroscopy, bronchoscopy, echocardiography (GE Vivid E9), ultrasound (GE Logiq S8 Vet), an Esprit Ventilator, Dialysis, and a fully equipped ICU to deliver the best possible patient care. We are a busy practice with a diversified caseload and our team (including 3 criticalists, 3 internists, 3 surgeons, 2 radiologist, 3 neurologists, 3 oncologists, 2 cardiologists, and 10 highly experienced ER doctors, as well as a skilled technical and assistant staff) takes pride in its cohesion and teamwork. With the team at VSC of Seattle, you will have the opportunity for a bustling caseload, a collegial work environment, professional growth, outreach within the community, the ability to mentor our 6 rotating interns, and work-life balance. 

More about our attractive location: 

Seattle is a vibrant and fun city with a strong cultural scene and excellent restaurants. The beautiful and unique natural environment also makes it a living paradise for the outdoorsy community, with the mountains and ocean nearby. The Emerald City is a great place to live! We have a moderate climate with sunny spring and summers; great skiing and snowboarding are only a few hours away. There is always something to do - music festivals, top-notch restaurants, ferry rides, and sporting events at every turn. We are a foodie’s paradise, with great local produce and farmers’ markets, tons of breweries and wineries, and plenty of fresh seafood. 

The Veterinary Specialty Center of Seattle is part of Thrive Pet Healthcare and proud to offer industry-leading support for our team members: 

  • Competitive compensation
  • Relocation Assistance Package
  • Health benefits (vision/dental/life insurance too)
  • Generous paid parental leave
  • Annual CE Stipend and more!
  • 401k w/ employer match
  • Annual Paid Time Off
  • Additional family & furry care support options, including veterinary care discounts.

You take great care of Animals. We take great care of YOU! 

Apply today at the link or reach out directly to Amanda Loseth at amanda.loseth@thrivepet.com

At Thrive Pet Healthcare, we celebrate and embrace the uniqueness and diversity of all of our team members, pet parents, and pets. We strive to create a diverse, equitable, and inclusive culture where all team members belong and feel empowered.