1

Veterinary Nurse Assistant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Veterinary Nurse

Orangeburg, NY · On-site

$19 - $23/hr

Veterinary Assistant Certification preferred * At least one year experience preferred * Experience handling a variety of animals * Strong customer service skills * Ability to communicate effectively

Veterinary Nurse Job

Orangeburg, NY · On-site

$19 - $23/hr

Veterinary Assistant Certification preferred * At least one year experience preferred * Experience handling a variety of animals * Strong customer service skills * Ability to communicate effectively

next page

Showing results 1-20

Veterinary Nurse Assistant information

See salary details

$10

$17

$23

How much do veterinary nurse assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for veterinary nurse 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 a vet nurse assistant?

A veterinary nurse assistant supports veterinary staff by handling basic animal care, cleaning, and preparing animals for examinations or procedures. They often work under supervision, may assist with feeding, restraint, and maintaining medical records, and typically need knowledge of animal handling and safety protocols.

Can you be a vet assistant with no experience?

Veterinary nurse assistant roles often do not require prior experience, as on-the-job training is common. However, having basic knowledge of animal care, good communication skills, and a willingness to learn can improve your chances of obtaining the position.

How to Become a Veterinary Nurse Assistant

To become a veterinary nurse assistant, you need either a bachelor’s degree or an associate degree in veterinary science. Upon receiving this degree, you then need to practice as a student for a period determined by the state in which you intend to practice. There is no federally-mandated period of training or practice to become a vet aide. However, if you want to provide care to animals, you need to pass the Veterinary Technician National Exam. This exam, according to the American Veterinary Medical Association, consists of multiple-choice questions in nine sections devoted to a specific area of animal care, such as anesthesia, emergency medicine, and pharmacology.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Veterinary Nurse Assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Veterinary Nurse Assistant, you need foundational knowledge of animal care, basic medical procedures, and a high school diploma or equivalent, with many employers preferring candidates with a veterinary assistant certification. Familiarity with veterinary practice management software, laboratory equipment, and animal restraint tools is typically required. Compassion, attention to detail, and effective communication are vital soft skills for supporting both animals and veterinary teams. These competencies are essential for ensuring animal well-being, smooth clinic operations, and positive client experiences.

What are some common challenges Veterinary Nurse Assistants face when working in a busy animal clinic?

Veterinary Nurse Assistants often encounter fast-paced environments where they must juggle multiple responsibilities, such as assisting with patient care, managing anxious pet owners, and maintaining sterile conditions. Balancing these tasks while ensuring the well-being of both animals and clients can be demanding, especially during emergencies or peak hours. Effective communication and teamwork with veterinarians and fellow staff members are essential to provide high-quality care and manage workflow efficiently.

How long does it take to be a CVT?

Becoming a Certified Veterinary Technician (CVT) typically requires completing a veterinary technology program accredited by the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), which takes about 2 years of full-time study. After graduation, candidates must pass the Veterinary Technician National Examination (VTNE) to earn certification, which can be achieved within a few months after completing their education.

What are Veterinary Nurse Assistants?

Veterinary Nurse Assistants are support professionals who work alongside veterinarians and veterinary nurses to care for animals in clinics, hospitals, or shelters. Their duties include assisting with animal handling, preparing equipment, maintaining clean environments, and sometimes helping during procedures. They play a crucial role in ensuring the well-being of animals and supporting the veterinary team in day-to-day operations. While they do not perform medical procedures independently, their work is essential for efficient and compassionate animal care.

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

AspectVeterinary Nurse AssistantVeterinary Technician
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; on-the-job trainingAssociate degree in veterinary technology; certification often required
Work EnvironmentAssist veterinarians and veterinary nurses in clinics, animal hospitals, sheltersPerform more advanced medical procedures, diagnostics, and patient care
Employer & Industry UsageVeterinary clinics, animal shelters, pet hospitalsVeterinary hospitals, specialty clinics, research facilities

Veterinary Nurse Assistants typically support veterinary teams with basic animal care and clerical tasks, requiring minimal formal education. Veterinary Technicians have more advanced training and perform diagnostic tests, administer medications, and assist in surgeries. Both roles are essential in veterinary settings, but Veterinary Technicians have a broader scope of practice and responsibilities.

What is the top pay for a veterinary assistant?

The top pay for a veterinary nurse assistant typically ranges from $15 to $20 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer. Advanced skills, certifications, and working in specialized clinics can lead to higher wages.
What cities are hiring for Veterinary Nurse Assistant jobs? Cities with the most Veterinary Nurse Assistant job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Veterinary Nurse jobs? The most popular types of Veterinary Nurse jobs are:
What states have the most Veterinary Nurse Assistant jobs? States with the most job openings for Veterinary Nurse Assistant jobs include:
Infographic showing various Veterinary Nurse Assistant job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 5% As Needed, 87% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,859 per year, or $17.2 per hour.
Wards Veterinary Nurse Assistant

Wards Veterinary Nurse Assistant

University of Pennsylvania

Ryan, OK • On-site

$15.90 - $19/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 17 days ago


University Of Pennsylvania rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 80 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

130th of 537 rated colleges and universities


Job description

University Overview

The University of Pennsylvania, the largest private employer in Philadelphia, is a world-renowned leader in education, research, and innovation. This historic, Ivy League school consistently ranks among the top 10 universities in the annual U.S. News & World Report survey. Penn has 12 highly-regarded schools that provide opportunities for undergraduate, graduate and continuing education, all influenced by Penn's distinctive interdisciplinary approach to scholarship and learning. As an employer Penn has been ranked nationally on many occasions with the most recent award from Forbes who named Penn one of America's Best Large Employers in 2023.

Penn offers a unique working environment within the city of Philadelphia. The University is situated on a beautiful urban campus, with easy access to a range of educational, cultural, and recreational activities. With its historical significance and landmarks, lively cultural offerings, and wide variety of atmospheres, Philadelphia is the perfect place to call home for work and play.

The University offers a competitive benefits package that includes excellent healthcare and tuition benefits for employees and their families, generous retirement benefits, a wide variety of professional development opportunities, supportive work and family benefits, a wealth of health and wellness programs and resources, and much more.

Posted Job Title

Wards Veterinary Nurse Assistant

Job Profile Title

Veterinary Nurse Assistant A

Job Description Summary

Ryan Veterinary Hospital is seeking a Veterinary Nurse Assistant to join our dynamic team. Our Veterinary Nurse Assistants are an integral part of our nursing team assisting with providing excellent care to our patients.

Job Description

Veterinary Nurse Assistant A responsibilities include:

  • Stocking supplies
  • Cleaning
  • Cage set up/breakdown
  • Make heparinized flushes
  • Laundry
  • Cleaning medical equipment (alcohol wipes only; no Rescue)
  • Pharmacy, clinical lab runs
  • Walking patients in appropriate areas, double-leashed
  • Proper labeling and transport of deceased patients to appropriate cooler
  • Patient restraint
  • Proper handling and running of Nova samples, PCV/TP, blood smears, glucometer, and Idexx tests. Bloodwork must always be checked with a nurse after being analyzed.
  • Prime fluid bags on a cassette. Cannot set up fluid pumps.
  • Anticipate nurses needs. This includes setting up for an IV catheter, blocked cat set up. Talk with the nurse on duty about their expectations.
  • Assist nurses with patients triaged to the treatment area that need immediate care.
  • Assist with discharge of outpatients once properly trained.
  • ANY changes/abnormalities/questions on patient status must be brought to attention of nurse.

Veterinary Nurse Assistant B responsibilities include:

  • Level 1 responsibilities
  • Room organization
  • Some supervised medical treatments on stable patients only
  • Assist nurses with unstable patients
  • May need to work in any of the 24/7 nursing areas during busy times. (ES, ICU, Wards)
  • Become familiar with normal and abnormal physical parameters including mucous membranes, capillary refill time, pulses, heart rate, respiratory rate and effort, and lung sounds
  • Feel comfortable with all monitoring equipment including normal results for the pulse oximeter, ECG set up, doppler/Cardell.
  • Focus on anticipating nurse's needs. This includes setting up for an IV catheter, blocked cat set up, fluid bag set up, etc...
  • All treatments/findings must be checked and approved by nurse on duty.
  • May perform treatments on stable patients under direct nurse supervision:
    • TPR, ECG, Doppler, connect/disconnect IVF
    • Prime IVF bags (cannot start infusions)
    • No medication administration

Qualifications:

Hours for this position are 8:00am - 4:00pm Monday through Friday.

Veterinary Nurse Assistant A

A High School Diploma and 1-2 years of experience or equivalent combination of education and experience. Experience working in a veterinary setting and experience with patient restraint is required. Candidates should also have experience working with difficult to handle patients, the proven ability to multitask and to follow directions. In addition candidates should also have strong interpersonal and communication skills.

Veterinary Nurse Assistant B

A High School Diploma and 2-3 years of experience or equivalent combination of education and experience. Experience working in a veterinary setting and experience with patient restraint is required. Candidates should also have experience working with difficult to handle patients, the proven ability to multitask and to follow directions. In addition candidates should also have strong interpersonal and communication skills.

Physical Requirements: Ability to stand, kneel, bend, reach for prolonged periods of time. Must be able to lift >25 pounds with minimal assistance.

Job Location - City, State

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Department / School

School of Veterinary Medicine

Pay Range

$15.90 - $19.00 Hourly Rate

Salary offers are made based on the candidate's qualifications, experience, skills, and education as they directly relate to the requirements of the position, and in alignment with salary ranges based on external market data for the job's level. Internal organization and peer data at Penn are also considered.

Equal Opportunity Statement

The University of Pennsylvania is an equal opportunity employer. Candidates are considered for employment without regard to race, color, sex, sexual orientation, religion, creed, national origin(including shared ancestry or ethnic characteristics), citizenship status, age, disability, veteran status or any class protectedunder applicable federal, state or local law.

Special Requirements
Background checks may be required after a conditional job offer is made. Consideration of the background check will be tailored to the requirements of the job.

University Benefits

  • Health, Life, and Flexible Spending Accounts: Penn offers comprehensive medical, prescription, behavioral health, dental, vision, and life insurance benefitsto protect you and your family's health and welfare. You can also use flexible spending accounts to pay for eligible health care and dependent care expenses with pre-tax dollars.

  • Tuition: Take advantage of Penn's exceptional tuition benefits. You, your spouse, and your dependent children can get tuition assistance here at Penn. Your dependent children are also eligible for tuition assistance at other institutions.

  • Retirement:Penn offers generous retirement plans to help you save for your future. Penn's Basic, Matching, and Supplemental retirement plans allow you to save for retirement on a pre-tax or Roth basis. Choose from a wide variety of investment options through TIAA and Vanguard.

  • Time Away from Work:Penn provides you with a substantial amount of time away from work during the course of the year. This allows you to relax, take vacations, attend to personal affairs, recover from illness or injury, spend time with family-whatever your personal needs may be.

  • Long-Term Care Insurance:In partnership with Genworth Financial, Penn offers faculty and staff (and your eligible family members) long-term care insurance to help you cover some of the costs of long-term care services received at home, in the community or in a nursing facility. If you apply when you're newly hired, you won't have to provide proof of good health or be subject to underwriting requirements. Eligible family members must always provide proof of good health and are subject to underwriting.

  • Wellness and Work-life Resources: Penn is committed to supporting our faculty and staff as they balance the competing demands of work and personal life. That's why we offer a wide variety of programs and resources to help you care for your health, your family, and your work-life balance.

  • Professional and Personal Development:Penn provides an array of resources to help you advance yourself personally and professionally.

  • University Resources:As a member of the Penn community, you have access to a wide range of University resources as well as cultural and recreational activities. Take advantage of the University's libraries and athletic facilities, or visit our arboretum and art galleries. There's always something going on at Penn, whether it's a new exhibit at the Penn Museum, the latest music or theater presentation at the Annenberg Center, or the Penn Relays at Franklin Field to name just a few examples. As a member of the Penn community, you're right in the middle of the excitement-and you and your family can enjoy many of these activities for free.

  • Discounts and Special Services: From arts and entertainment to transportation and mortgages, you'll find great deals for University faculty and staff. Not only do Penn arts and cultural centers and museums offer free and discounted admission and memberships to faculty and staff. You can also enjoy substantial savings on other goods and services such as new cars from Ford and General Motors, cellular phone service plans, movie tickets, and admission to theme parks.

  • Flexible Work Hours:Flexible work options offer creative approaches for completing work while promoting balance between work and personal commitments. These approaches involve use of non-traditional work hours, locations, and/or job structures.

  • Penn Home Ownership Services: Penn offers a forgivable loan for eligible employees interested in buying a home or currently residing in West Philadelphia, which can be used for closing costs or home improvements.

  • Adoption Assistance: Penn will reimburse eligible employees on qualified expenses in connection with the legal adoption of an eligible child, such as travel or court fees, for up to two adoptions in your household.

To learn more, please visit: https://www.hr.upenn.edu/PennHR/benefits-pay


What University Of Pennsylvania employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


University of Pennsylvania logo

About University of Pennsylvania

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

The University of Pennsylvania, the largest private employer in Philadelphia, is a world-renowned leader in education, research, and innovation. This historic, Ivy League school consistently ranks among the top 10 universities in the annual U.S. News & World Report survey. Penn has 12 highly-regarded schools that provide opportunities for undergraduate, graduate and continuing education, all influenced by Penn's distinctive interdisciplinary approach to scholarship and learning. As an employer Penn has been ranked nationally on many occasions with the most recent award from Forbes who named Penn one of America's Best Employers By State in 2021.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Philadelphia, PA, US

Year founded

1740