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Veterinary Tech Assistant Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Iowa State University

Veterinary Technician

Ames, IA · On-site

... technology program accredited by the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) or the Canadian ... assist with patient diagnostics, procedures, and other necessary treatments. Instruct and ...

Frey Pet Hospital

Veterinary Assistant

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

$15 - $18/hr

Frey Pet Hospital is seeking an experienced Veterinary Assistant to join our team! This is an ... technology such as ultrasound, endoscopy, laser therapy, and digital radiography. Our practice ...

Frey Pet Hospital

Veterinary Assistant

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

$15 - $18/hr

Frey Pet Hospital is seeking an experienced Veterinary Assistant to join our team! This is an ... technology such as ultrasound, endoscopy, laser therapy, and digital radiography. Our practice ...

Frey Pet Hospital

Veterinary Assistant

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

$15 - $18/hr

Frey Pet Hospital is seeking an experienced Veterinary Assistant to join our team! This is an ... technology such as ultrasound, endoscopy, laser therapy, and digital radiography. Our practice ...

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Veterinary Tech Assistant information

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How much do veterinary tech assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for veterinary tech assistant in Iowa is $16.57, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.47 and $18.27 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges Veterinary Tech Assistants face during busy clinic hours?

Veterinary Tech Assistants often encounter fast-paced and unpredictable workdays, especially during peak clinic hours or emergencies. Managing multiple tasks simultaneously—such as preparing exam rooms, assisting veterinarians, and handling frightened or uncooperative animals—can be challenging. Good communication, flexibility, and the ability to stay calm under pressure are essential for success in this role. Teamwork is crucial, as Tech Assistants frequently collaborate with veterinarians, veterinary technicians, and reception staff to ensure smooth patient flow and high-quality care.

How long does it take to be a CVT?

Becoming a Certified Veterinary Technician (CVT) typically requires completing an accredited veterinary technology program, which takes about 2 years, and passing the Veterinary Technician National Examination (VTNE). Some states may have additional licensing or certification requirements, and gaining hands-on experience through internships or work placements is also common during training.

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

To thrive as a Veterinary Tech Assistant, you need a basic understanding of animal care, handling, and medical terminology, often supported by a high school diploma and on-the-job training. Familiarity with veterinary practice management software, laboratory equipment, and basic restraint tools is commonly required. Compassion, attention to detail, and strong teamwork skills help you stand out in supporting both animals and veterinary staff. These abilities are crucial to ensure efficient clinic operations, accurate patient care, and a positive experience for clients and their pets.

What does a vet tech assistant do?

A veterinary tech assistant supports veterinary technicians and veterinarians by handling tasks such as cleaning and maintaining animal environments, restraining animals during exams, and assisting with basic procedures. They often perform clerical duties, prepare supplies, and may help with animal feeding and monitoring. This role requires good animal handling skills and knowledge of safety protocols in a veterinary setting.

Can I be a vet assistant with no experience?

Veterinary tech assistant positions 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 role. Some employers may prefer or require a high school diploma or equivalent.

Who gets paid more, a vet tech or vet assistant?

Veterinary techs typically earn higher wages than vet assistants because they usually have more training, certification, and responsibilities such as performing diagnostic tests and assisting with surgeries. Vet techs often require an associate degree and certification, which can lead to higher pay compared to vet assistants who generally have on-the-job training or less formal education.

What are Veterinary Tech Assistants?

Veterinary Tech Assistants, also known as veterinary assistants, are professionals who support veterinarians and veterinary technicians in animal care settings. Their duties include feeding, bathing, and exercising animals, cleaning and sanitizing kennels and equipment, and assisting with basic medical procedures under supervision. They also help restrain animals during exams, maintain patient records, and provide compassionate care to pets and their owners. Veterinary Tech Assistants play a crucial role in ensuring the smooth operation of veterinary clinics and hospitals.
What are popular job titles related to Veterinary Tech Assistant jobs in Iowa? For Veterinary Tech Assistant jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Veterinary Tech Assistant jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Veterinary Tech Assistant jobs in Iowa are:
What cities in Iowa are hiring for Veterinary Tech Assistant jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Veterinary Tech Assistant job openings:
Veterinary Tech Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Veterinary Tech Assistant job openings in Iowa as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 22% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $34,459 per year, or $16.6 per hour.
Lab Technician - Veterinary Technology (Part Time)

Lab Technician - Veterinary Technology (Part Time)

Kirkwood Community College

Cedar Rapids, IA • On-site

$18.58/hr

Part-time

Posted 4 days ago

New

Kirkwood Community College rating

6.9

Company rating: 6.9 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

408th of 555 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Salary: $18.58 Hourly
Location : Main Campus, 6301 Kirkwood Blvd SW, Cedar Rapids, IA
Job Type: Part-time
Job Number: 02919
Division: Academic Affairs
Department: Agricultural Science
Opening Date: 07/13/2026
JOB GOAL:
To advance the college's mission, vision, principles, values and strategic initiatives through continuous improvement decisions.
GENERAL JOB SUMMARY:
Under limited supervision, provides coordination and support for the daily operation of the Veterinary Technology program. This position requires independent judgment, problem-solving and decision-making skills, strong organizational skills, excellent communication skills, good computer skills and the ability to handle pressures related to deadlines.
The work schedule will be 3 pm to 6 pm, Monday through Friday. This position will also be September - December and then January - May.
UNIVERSAL CORE COMPETENCIES:
  • Advocate for Continual Improvement- empowering each other to identify opportunities for excellence.
  • Collaborate with Mutual Accountability- working together with a willingness to take ownership and account for our actions.
  • Champion Service- anticipating needs and create a welcoming, diverse, and inclusive environment.
  • Perseverance- commitment to excellence even in the face of adversity or delay in achieving success.
  • Lead- regardless of title, through positive influence.

DUTIES/RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Supervise afternoon animal care rotations (3:00-6:00 PM Monday-Friday, September-December, January-May)
    • Communicate any problems with the instructor and/or veterinarian
    • Provide feedback to instructor(s) on student performance
  • Instruct students in appropriate completion of animal care tasks
  • Assist the full-time RVTs in monitoring student record keeping
  • Assist faculty, staff, and students in the maintenance of clean and organized laboratory areas
  • Perform limited kennel maintenance
  • Submit kennel and facility maintenance requests
  • Monitor patients and report any health problems to the attending veterinarian
  • Perform other related work duties as assigned

PERFORMANCE EXPECTATIONS:
  • Be able and willing to represent the College in the most positive manner with members, students, clients, suppliers, and the community we serve.
  • Cooperate as a team member with the Animal Health faculty and staff in performing duties essential to the achievement of efficient program operations.
  • Ability to assume responsibility, deal effectively with problems, and exercise independent judgment when making decisions.
  • Be punctual and reliable.
  • Ability to work in an educational environment training environment.
  • Ability to communicate clearly and concisely in oral and written form.
  • Work effectively and accurately in an atmosphere of frequent interruptions, deal with deadlines, and be flexible.
  • Must be able to handle and work with small animals.
  • Must be available to work afternoons, 3:00-6:000 p.m. Monday-Friday for animal care.

The statements contained herein reflect general details as necessary to describe the essential job duties/responsibilities and performance expectations of the job, which should not be considered an all-inclusive listing of work requirements. Individuals may perform other duties as assigned.
PHYSICAL ACTIVITIES WITH/WITHOUT REASONABLE ACCOMMODATION:
Moderate to light work. Position involves sitting and/or standing constantly (67-100%) in a laboratory/office setting. Exerting up to 50 pounds occasionally (10-33%). Frequent (34-66%) reaching, standing, walking, lifting, dexterity, pushing, pulling, and repetitive motions. Handling and restraint of both small and large animals.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
  • 3 years of recent hands-on clinical experience in a small or mixed animal veterinary practice, including direct involvement in patient care, animal handling, and clinical procedures
  • Proficient using Microsoft Office
  • Valid Driver's License
    • This position requires a valid driver's license and participation in continuous Motor Vehicle Record (MVR) monitoring. Your driving record will be verified initially and monitored on an ongoing basis as a condition of employment.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS, LICENSES, CERTIFICATIONS, OR REGISTRATIONS:
  • Currently registered as a Veterinary Technician in Iowa
  • Supervisory experience

EEO AA/STATEMENT:
It is the policy of Kirkwood Community College not to discriminate in its programs, activities, or employment on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, creed, religion, and actual or potential family, parental or marital status. If you have questions or complaints related to compliance with this policy, please contact the Vice President, Human Resources and Institutional Effectiveness, 6301 Kirkwood Blvd. SW, Cedar Rapids, IA 52404, 319-398-5572, , or the Director of the Office for Civil Rights U.S. Department of Education, John C. Kluczynski Federal Building, 230 S. Dearborn Street, 37th Floor, Chicago, IL 60604-7204, Telephone: (312) 730-1560 Facsimile: (312) 730-1576, TDD 800-877-8339 Email: .
WHY KIRKWOOD:
Kirkwood Community College prides itself on fostering a diverse workforce and values unique perspectives throughout its campus community. The college is a convenient, innovative, visionary educational leader striving to remain affordable and accessible. With more than 140 majors and programs, Kirkwood boasts 16,000 annual college-credit students while maintaining one of the lowest tuitions in the state. All degree-seeking students are eligible for federal financial aid and the college offers more than $3 million in scholarships each year to students from all walks of life.
Review of applications will continue until the position is filled.
Kirkwood offers a wide range of employee benefits. Read more about them !
01
Do you have 3 years of recent hands-on clinical experience in a small or mixed animal veterinary practice, including direct involvement in patient care, animal handling, and clinical procedures?
  • Yes
  • No

Required Question

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