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Veterinary Lab Technician Jobs in Oregon (NOW HIRING)

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Veterinary Lab Technician information

See Oregon salary details

$12

$22

$33

How much do veterinary lab technician jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for veterinary lab technician in Oregon is $22.95, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.80 and $26.15 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a veterinary lab technician?

Veterinary Lab Technicians are trained professionals who assist veterinarians by performing laboratory tests, analyzing samples, and helping diagnose diseases in animals. They work in veterinary clinics, animal hospitals, research facilities, and diagnostic laboratories. Their responsibilities include preparing specimens, operating lab equipment, and recording results to support animal healthcare. Veterinary Lab Technicians play a vital role in ensuring accurate diagnoses and effective treatment plans for animals.

What are some typical challenges faced by veterinary lab technicians in their daily work?

Veterinary Lab Technicians often encounter challenges such as managing a high volume of samples while maintaining accuracy and adhering to strict protocols. They may also work with distressed animals or urgent cases, requiring them to stay calm under pressure and prioritize tasks effectively. Additionally, technicians must be vigilant about biohazard safety and proper handling of specimens to prevent contamination. Collaboration with veterinarians and other team members is essential for accurate diagnoses and smooth workflow.

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

To thrive as a Veterinary Lab Technician, you need a solid background in animal science, laboratory procedures, and typically an associate degree in veterinary technology or a related field. Familiarity with diagnostic laboratory equipment, sample analysis techniques, and veterinary software systems is crucial. Attention to detail, strong organizational skills, and effective communication help you manage samples accurately and support veterinarians efficiently. These skills and qualities are vital to ensure precise diagnostics, maintain animal health, and support smooth clinical operations.

What is the difference between Veterinary Lab Technician vs Veterinary Technologist?

AspectVeterinary Lab TechnicianVeterinary Technologist
Required CredentialsAssociate degree in veterinary technologyBachelor's degree in veterinary technology
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, clinics, research facilitiesVeterinary clinics, hospitals, research labs
Employer & Industry UsageVeterinary diagnostic labs, research institutionsVeterinary clinics, animal hospitals, research organizations
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for entry-level roles and certificationsCompared for advanced responsibilities and education

Veterinary Lab Technicians typically hold an associate degree and focus on laboratory testing and diagnostics. Veterinary Technologists usually have a bachelor's degree and perform more advanced clinical and research tasks. Both roles are essential in veterinary medicine, but the technologist often has broader responsibilities and higher qualifications.

How to become a veterinary lab technician?

To become a veterinary lab technician, you typically need an associate degree in veterinary technology or a related field from an accredited program. Certification or licensing, such as passing the Veterinary Technician National Examination (VTNE), is often required or preferred by employers. Skills in laboratory procedures, animal handling, and familiarity with diagnostic tools are also important for this role.
Infographic showing various Veterinary Lab Technician job openings in Oregon as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, and 16% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $47,730 per year, or $22.9 per hour.

Neurology Veterinary Technician

Portland, OR โ€ข On-site

DoveLewis Veterinary Emergency and Specialty Hospital
51 - 200 employees

$28 - $44/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 16 days ago


Job description

DoveLewis Veterinary Emergency and Specialty Hospital is seeking full-time Certified or Licensed Veterinary Technicians to join our Neurology team.
As a Neurology Veterinary Technician, you will play a vital role in supporting neurology patients while working as part of an experienced team of Veterinary Assistants, Technicians, and Specialists. Daily responsibilities include performing anesthesia, facilitating imaging with our 64-slice CT and brand-new 3 Tesla MRI, and assisting with neurosurgery like craniotomies and hemilaminectomies. In addition, you will perform other facets of nursing care such as calculating medical dosages, administering medications, running in-house lab work, placing tubes and catheters, ensuring patient comfort, updating clients on their pet's progress, and collaborating with other teams throughout the hospital.
Strong technical skills, adaptability, and a genuine love and respect for all animals are essential, as is an appreciation for the human-animal bond.
Wage: This position qualifies for a 10% weekend differential pay for relevant shifts.
  • $28-$36 hourly for Certified Veterinary Technicians (or other license type that is transferable to Oregon)
  • $38-$44 hourly for Veterinary Technician Specialists

What are we looking for in a candidate?
  • Someone that is passionate and excited about practicing the highest quality medicine and strives for excellence.
  • Lifelong learners who are eager to face new challenges every day and actively participate in our teaching hospital culture.
  • A commitment to providing both patients and clients with the highest standard of care at a client-centered hospital.
  • Experience and comfort with surgery and anesthesia including for critical patients.
  • 2+ years working in the veterinary field as a technician or assistant minimum.
  • 1+ year experience working in neurology or another specialty service.
  • Current status as a Certified Veterinary Technician in the state of Oregon OR currently Licensed Veterinary Technician OR Registered Veterinary Technician, or other form of credentialed veterinary nurse or technician elsewhere with the ability to transfer license to Oregon.
  • High school diploma or equivalent.

Any suitable combination of experience or education may substitute for the above.
What you can look forward to at DoveLewis:
  • Advancing your emergency and critical care skills while working alongside a highly skilled team, including Certified Veterinary Technicians and Veterinary Technician Specialists (VTS).
  • VTS pathway support for credentialed technicians seeking to specialize, with mentorship from experienced VTS team members.
  • Collaborating across multiple specialties, including ECC, Neurology, Cardiology, Internal Medicine, Surgery, Exotics, Hospice, Pain Management, Urgent Care, and Diagnostic Imaging.
  • Equitable health benefits (medical, dental, vision, $0 mental health copays, LGBTQIA+ affirming care).
  • 403(b) retirement plan with financial advising
  • Student debt repayment assistance (available after 1 month)
  • Paid vacation, sick time, holiday pay, and bereavement leave (including time off when a pet family member passes away).
  • Continuing education support including license reimbursement, professional dues assistance, and access to atDove with 100+ hours of on-demand, RACE-approved CE content.
  • A nonprofit mission that makes your work meaningful every day.

How to apply:
To be considered for this position, you must complete the online application and upload a resume. Resumes received without a completed online application will not be considered.
DoveLewis is an equal opportunity employer dedicated to workforce diversity and a drug-free workplace. Pre-employment background and drug screen for illegal substances is required.