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Veterinary Surgical Assistant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

NCSU

Veterinary Surgical Assistant

Raleigh, NC

$15.25 - $19.25/hr

Job Posting Information Posting Number PG195030SP Internal Recruitment No Working Title Veterinary Surgical Assistant Anticipated Hiring Range $45,500 - $49,200 Work Schedule Daytime, TBD, holidays ...

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How much do veterinary surgical assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for veterinary surgical 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 are some common challenges faced by Veterinary Surgical Assistants during surgical procedures?

Veterinary Surgical Assistants often encounter challenges such as maintaining strict sterility in the operating room, managing anxious or reactive animals, and responding quickly to the changing needs of the surgical team. They must be attentive and proactive, ensuring all instruments and supplies are available and functioning, while also keeping detailed records. Adapting to different veterinarians' preferences and handling emergencies calmly are key aspects that can make the role demanding but rewarding.

Can you be a vet assistant with no experience?

Veterinary surgical assistants typically need some animal care experience, but entry-level positions may be available for those without prior experience if they demonstrate a willingness to learn and complete relevant training or certifications. Many employers provide on-the-job training to develop necessary skills for assisting in surgeries and animal handling.

Why are so many veterinarians quitting?

Veterinary surgical assistants work in a demanding environment that can lead to high stress and burnout among veterinarians. Factors such as long hours, emotional strain from patient outcomes, and administrative pressures contribute to some veterinarians leaving the profession. These issues can also impact the overall veterinary team, including surgical assistants.

What is the top pay for a veterinary assistant?

The top pay for a veterinary assistant typically ranges from $15 to $20 per hour, with experienced professionals or those working in specialized clinics earning higher wages. Salaries can vary based on location, experience, and certifications such as veterinary assistant or technician credentials.

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

To thrive as a Veterinary Surgical Assistant, you need a solid understanding of animal anatomy, surgical procedures, and sterile techniques, often supported by a veterinary technology certificate or diploma. Familiarity with anesthesia machines, surgical instruments, and veterinary practice management software is typically required. Attention to detail, strong teamwork, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for success in this role. These abilities ensure the safety of animals during surgery, support efficient surgical teams, and contribute to positive patient outcomes.

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 two years for an associate degree. After graduation, candidates must pass the Veterinary Technician National Examination (VTNE) to become certified, a process that can take several months depending on individual study schedules.

What are veterinary surgical assistants?

Veterinary surgical assistants are trained professionals who support veterinarians during surgical procedures. Their duties include preparing the operating area, sterilizing equipment, monitoring animals under anesthesia, and assisting with pre- and post-operative care. They work closely with the veterinary team to ensure surgeries are performed safely and efficiently, and they also help maintain records and provide compassionate care to animal patients.
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Veterinary Surgical Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Veterinary Surgical Assistant job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 10% As Needed, 54% Full Time, 23% Part Time, and 13% 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.

Veterinary Surgical Assistant

Biolegacy Research

San Diego, CA • On-site

$28 - $32/hr

Full-time

Posted yesterday

Job description

Veterinary Surgical AssistantPosition Summary

The Veterinary Surgical Assistant supports in vivo preclinical research activities involving large animal models, including pigs, dogs, sheeps, and monkeys, and other species as applicable. This is a highly hands-on onsite role supporting surgical procedures, animal handling, perioperative activities, and daily research operations in a fast-paced preclinical research environment.

The ideal candidate is dependable, comfortable working in an animal research environment, and interested in supporting translational research and surgical studies while maintaining high standards of animal welfare and operational excellence.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Assist with surgical procedures involving large animal models, including pigs and other species as applicable

Support preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative activities

Safely handle, restrain, move, and monitor animals using approved safety procedures and team-lift practices

Prepare surgical suites, instruments, supplies, and study materials

Assist with anesthesia monitoring, procedural setup, and recovery support

Maintain accurate study documentation and operational records

Support daily in vivo research operations and study activities

Collaborate with veterinarians, Study Directors, research staff, and operational teams

Ensure compliance with company SOPs, biosafety standards, and animal welfare regulations

Maintain cleanliness and organization of surgical and operational areas

Communicate proactively regarding scheduling, operational needs, and study support

Perform additional duties as assigned

Required Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree in Animal Science, Biology, Life Sciences, Veterinary Technology, Biomedical Sciences, or related field; or equivalent combination of education and experience

Strong interest in animal research, veterinary medicine, surgery, or preclinical research

Ability to work in a physically active, fast-paced operational environment

Strong teamwork, communication, and organizational skills

Reliable attendance and ability to support early onsite operational schedules

Comfortable working in an in vivo research environment involving animal handling and surgical research procedures

Preferred Qualifications

Experience working with large animals or in animal care environments

Experience in research, laboratory, veterinary, agricultural, or surgical support settings

Experience handling pigs or other large animal models

Experience supporting surgical or procedural activities

Familiarity with animal welfare standards or research environments

Physical Requirements

Ability to safely handle and work with large animal models using approved safety procedures

Ability to lift, move, or assist with equipment and animal handling activities with or without reasonable accommodation

Ability to stand for extended periods during study and surgical activities

Ability to wear required PPE and work in laboratory/research environments

Ability to participate in team-lift activities and utilize approved lifting/restraint equipment as needed

Work Environment & Schedule

Primarily onsite role supporting in vivo research operations

Standard operational schedule may include early morning start times (example: 6:30 AM start)

Flexibility may occasionally be required based on study schedules and operational needs

Work environment includes animal handling, surgical procedures, and preclinical research activities

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