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Veterinary Tech Assistant Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Veterinary Assistant

Antioch, TN · On-site

$15 - $18.75/hr

Full-Time Veterinary Assistant at VCA PetMed Animal Hospital We're currently seeking a Veterinary ... Tuition assistance including Veterinary Technology Associates, Bachelors completion and more

Veterinary Assistant

Chattanooga, TN · On-site

$14.25 - $18/hr

Using the latest technology, we can complete endoscopic exams for ear infection, sinuses, and ... As a Veterinary Assistant, you'll play a hands-on role in patient care from intake to recovery.

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Veterinary Tech Assistant information

See Tennessee salary details

$9

$16

$21

How much do veterinary tech assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average hourly pay for veterinary tech assistant in Tennessee is $16.01, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.94 and $17.69 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a veterinary tech assistant?

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 the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a veterinary tech assistant?

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 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.

Can I be a veterinary tech assistant with no experience?

Veterinary tech 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. Some employers may prefer or require a high school diploma or equivalent, and certifications such as veterinary assistant training can be beneficial.

Is it hard to get a job as a veterinary tech assistant?

Getting a job as a veterinary tech assistant can be competitive, but having relevant certifications, animal care experience, and good communication skills can improve your chances. Entry-level positions are often available, but some employers prefer candidates with prior experience or formal training in veterinary assisting or related fields.

What job categories do people searching Veterinary Tech Assistant jobs in Tennessee look for?

The top searched job categories for Veterinary Tech Assistant jobs in Tennessee are:

What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Veterinary Tech Assistant jobs?

Cities in Tennessee with the most Veterinary Tech Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Veterinary Tech Assistant job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,298 per year, or $16 per hour.

Veterinary Assistant

VCA Animal Hospitals

Antioch, TN • On-site

$15 - $18.75/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 19 days ago


VCA Animal Hospitals rating

6.1

Company rating: 6.1 out of 10

Based on 659 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

27th of 52 rated veterinary


Job description

Full-Time Veterinary Assistant at VCA PetMed Animal Hospital

We're currently seeking a Veterinary Assistant to join our dedicated and compassionate team.If you're passionate about veterinary medicine and looking for a team that will support your growth, we'd love to meet you!

Schedule: Full- time opportunity. 4 x 10 hour shifts with rotating Saturdays.

Compensation: The starting range is $ 15 - 22/hr and determined by skill set, and years of experience in the field.

About VCA PetMed Animal Hospital:

At VCA PetMed Animal Hospital, we're passionate about helping pets live longer, healthier, and happier lives through exceptional veterinary care. As an AAHA-accredited hospital, we uphold the highest standards in veterinary medicine, demonstrating our commitment to excellence in patient care, safety, and client service.

Our compassionate team is dedicated to creating a welcoming, family-focused environment where pets, their owners, and our associates feel supported every step of the way. We believe outstanding patient care starts with an engaged, collaborative team, which is why we foster a culture of respect, mentorship, and continuous learning.

What You'll Do (Day-to-Day Responsibilities):

  • Assist veterinarians and technicians with exams and procedures

  • Take patient histories and perform TPRs (temperature, pulse, respiration)

  • Restrain animals safely and compassionately

  • Prepare and clean exam rooms

  • Assist with radiographs, lab sample collection, and basic in-house diagnostics

  • Maintain accurate medical records and support charting

  • Provide client education and ensure excellent service during visits

  • Support surgery prep and recovery as needed

  • Help maintain a clean, stocked, and organized hospital environment

Qualifications:

  • Previous experience in a veterinary setting

  • A passion for animals and a desire to learn and grow in the veterinary field

  • Excellent communication and teamwork skills

  • Comfortable handling dogs and cats of all sizes and temperaments

  • High school diploma or equivalent required

Below are some of the many benefits of joining the VCA team!

  • Advancement and leadership opportunities

  • Internal CE and development opportunities

  • Tuition assistance including Veterinary Technology Associates, Bachelors completion and more

  • Medical, dental & vision insurance, a variety of additional coverage options

  • Free mental health care through Lyra Health (up to 12 sessions a year)

  • Access to free counseling through Cigna Life Assistance program

  • Access to Headspace app

  • Fully employer-paid life, long-term and short-term disability insurance

  • Paid vacation, paid sick time, holiday pay

  • Paid parental leave

  • Fertility coverage, gender affirmation services

  • Generous hospital discounts for your pets, a variety of other discounts including cellular service, apparel, computer equipment, etc.

  • 401(k) retirement plan with company match

  • Referral bonus opportunities

  • Practice management software with digital innovations for streamlined practice flow and client communication

  • Opportunities to give back through VCA Charities and community partnerships

Ready to build a career where compassion and collaboration are at the heart of what you do? Apply today and help us shape the future of veterinary care-one patient at a time.

Location: 1120 Bell Rd, Antioch, TN 37013

If you are a current associate, you need to apply through our internal career site. Please log into Workday and click on the Jobs Hub app or search for Browse Jobs.

Benefits: We offer competitive compensation along with a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, vision and paid vacation/sick days, 401(k), generous employee pet discounts and more!The information in this position description indicates the general nature and level of work to be performed. It is not designed to be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities, and qualifications required of associates assigned to this job. Management reserves the right to revise the job description or require that other tasks be performed when the circumstances of the job change (for example, emergencies, change in personnel, workload, or technical development).We are proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer - Veterans / Disabled. For a complete EEO statement please see our career page at vcacareers.com.

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