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Veterinary Surgical Tech Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Veterinary Surgical Tech information

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$31

How much do veterinary surgical tech jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for veterinary surgical tech in the United States is $21.70, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.79 and $24.76 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a veterinary surgical tech?

Veterinary Surgical Technicians, often called vet surgical techs, are specialized veterinary professionals who assist veterinarians during surgical procedures on animals. Their responsibilities include preparing animals and surgical instruments, monitoring anesthesia, maintaining sterile environments, and providing post-operative care. They play a crucial role in ensuring surgeries run smoothly and safely for both the veterinary team and the animal patients.

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

To thrive as a Veterinary Surgical Tech, you need a solid background in animal anatomy, surgical procedures, and sterile techniques, usually supported by a veterinary technology degree and relevant certification (such as CVT, LVT, or RVT). Familiarity with anesthesia machines, surgical instruments, patient monitoring equipment, and veterinary medical records systems is essential. Attention to detail, effective communication, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are standout soft skills for this role. These competencies ensure safe, efficient surgical outcomes and high-quality care for animal patients in a demanding clinical environment.

What are some common challenges veterinary surgical techs face in a surgical setting, and how can they best prepare for them?

Veterinary Surgical Techs often encounter challenges such as maintaining strict sterility during procedures, managing anxious animals, and working efficiently under pressure. To best prepare, it's crucial to develop strong attention to detail, excellent communication skills with both veterinarians and team members, and adaptability to rapidly changing situations. Regular hands-on training, staying updated with the latest surgical protocols, and practicing effective stress management techniques can help Veterinary Surgical Techs excel and ensure the best outcomes for patients.

What is the difference between Veterinary Surgical Tech vs Veterinary Technician?

AspectVeterinary Surgical TechVeterinary Technician
CertificationsCVTS or equivalent; specialized surgical trainingLicensed or certified veterinary technician (CVT, LVT, RVT)
Work EnvironmentAssists in surgeries, prepares surgical instruments, monitors anesthesiaGeneral animal care, diagnostics, assisting in various procedures
Employer & Industry UsageVeterinary clinics, hospitals, surgical centersVeterinary clinics, hospitals, research facilities

Veterinary Surgical Techs focus specifically on assisting with surgeries and anesthesia, requiring specialized surgical training and certifications. Veterinary Technicians have broader roles in animal care and diagnostics. Both roles are vital in veterinary settings, but Surgical Techs are more specialized in surgical procedures.

More about Veterinary Surgical Tech jobs

What cities are hiring for Veterinary Surgical Tech jobs?

Cities with the most Veterinary Surgical Tech job openings:

What states have the most Veterinary Surgical Tech jobs?

States with the most job openings for Veterinary Surgical Tech jobs include:

Infographic showing various Veterinary Surgical Tech job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 13% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,144 per year, or $21.7 per hour.

Lead Veterinary Surgical Technician

Rarebreed Veterinary Partners

Long Valley, NJ • On-site

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 17 days ago


Rarebreed Veterinary Partners rating

4.9

Company rating: 4.9 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

46th of 52 rated veterinary


Job description

Lead Veterinary Surgical Technician

Long Valley Animal Hospital is looking to add a compassionate and skilled Lead Veterinary Surgical Technician to our team.

At our Rarebreed clinic, you can help reimagine the veterinary experience in your community. Our warm-hearted environment means you'll be able to empathize and demonstrate real care for client's pets and provide utmost care. As part of our team, you'll work with the latest technology, gain access to state-of-the-art training facilities, and collaborate with a positive team to deliver the highest quality of care to the pet patients we all love.

Long Valley Animal Hospital, located in Long Valley, New Jersey, serves the pet populations of Long Valley, Chester, Hackettstown, Mendham, and surrounding areas. It's our mission every day to empathize and demonstrate real care for our client's pets and to provide exceptional veterinary medicine. Come see why our motto is "Where Cold Noses Meet Warm Hearts".

Lead Veterinary Surgical Technician

Long Valley Animal Hospital in Long Valley, NJ

The target schedule for this role is Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday, but is subject to change.

What You'll Do

  • Provide compassionate care to pet patients and their loved ones
  • Responsible for creating an environment that bolsters the morale and retention of doctors and staff, where everyone is treated with respect and kindness.
  • Keep accurate medical records in accordance with hospital policy
  • Prepare and maintain the exam rooms and treatment areas
  • Oversee staff to ensure that each job is being effectively handled and shifts are sufficiently staffed. Monitor employee competence and effectiveness.
  • Prepare estimates for procedures and discusses financial commitments with clients
  • Explain necessary follow-up and home care instructions
  • Stock clinic treatment area and exam rooms, and inform inventory manager when supplies need to be ordered
  • Assist the Veterinarian in medical, surgical, and dental procedures (be very comfortable with blood draws; prepare patients for surgery; administer anesthesia; monitor patients during surgery and recovery; administer fluids)
  • Care for all surgical materials and keep the operating room properly stocked and prepared for surgery
  • Educating clients on preventive care and having a strong knowledge of the products we stock
  • Customer service in all forms - interacting face to face, occasionally answering phone calls, scheduling appointments, following up with clients post-visit, and educating clients and empowering them to provide the best care to their pets (Experience with Cornerstone a plus)

Benefits

We're passionate about helping you reach your greatest potential – both at work and at home. As a result, our total compensation package is outstanding:

  • Great pay with competitive medical, dental, and vision insurance coverage
  • 401K with a company match of up to 4%- after 6 months of service
  • Generous paid time off
  • Mental Health Resources
  • Company-paid bonding leave

Plus, special benefits to utilize for your own pet:

  • Pet Care: Discounts on veterinary services and products
  • Pet Diagnostics: Discounts on reference lab testing
  • Pet Food: Discounts on Purina pet foods
  • Pet Insurance: Discounts available with our preferred vendor

Requirements

  • High school diploma or equivalent
  • Veterinary Technician Certification (CVT) or License (LVT) required
  • Prior leadership experience required
  • Ability to have dedicated surgery days based on hospital needs

Rarebreed Veterinary Partners is a purpose-driven team that places talent first by supporting professionals to thrive in our industry and empowering hospital teams to provide exceptional care for pets and their owners. We focus on providing our hospitals with the best culture, tools, and support to allow the staff to focus on what they love most: caring for our animal companions.

Employment will require the successful completion of references and background check.

Rarebreed Veterinary Partners provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, age, mental or physical disability, medical condition, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, genetic information, ancestry, marital status, national origin, protected veteran status, or any other characteristics or classifications protected by applicable federal, state, and local laws.


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