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Veterinary Tech Assistant Jobs in Portland, OR (NOW HIRING)

National Veterinary Associates

Veterinary Assistant

Canby, OR · On-site

$16.50 - $20.75/hr

The veterinary assistant is the entire team's primary support. Every department relies on their ... Tech supervision Feeding/bathing animals Answering phones Customer service Helping clients with ...

Mission Pet Health

Veterinary Assistant

Hillsboro, OR · On-site

$17.25 - $21.50/hr

General Information Ref # 53093 Department Vet Tech / Vet Assistant / VT Campus Job Site Frontier Veterinary Hospital Date Published 07-24-2026 Pay Class Full-Time Base Min. $ 20 Base Max. $ 22 ...

NVA

Veterinary Assistant

Canby, OR · On-site

$16.50 - $20.75/hr

The veterinary assistant is the entire team's primary support. Every department relies on their ... Our national presence enables us to deliver technology and innovations that simplify work and ...

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All JobsVeterinary Tech JobsVeterinary Tech Assistant JobsVeterinary Tech Assistant Jobs in Portland, OR

Veterinary Tech Assistant information

See Portland, OR salary details

$10

$18

$24

How much do veterinary tech assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for veterinary tech assistant in Portland, OR is $18.35, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.01 and $20.24 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 Portland, OR? For Veterinary Tech Assistant jobs in Portland, OR, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Veterinary Tech Assistant jobs in Portland, OR look for? The top searched job categories for Veterinary Tech Assistant jobs in Portland, OR are:
What cities near Portland, OR are hiring for Veterinary Tech Assistant jobs? Cities near Portland, OR with the most Veterinary Tech Assistant job openings:
Veterinary Tech Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Veterinary Tech Assistant job openings in Portland, OR as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,173 per year, or $18.4 per hour.
Veterinary Assistant, Seasonal

Veterinary Assistant, Seasonal

Ethos Veterinary Health

Vancouver, WA • On-site

$20 - $24/hr

Temporary

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago

Job description

Veterinary Assistant (Seasonal) - ER & Specialty
$20.00-$24.00/hr + Shift & Weekend Differentials
Seasonal opportunity in Vancouver, WA
Schedule: Shifts are determined by hospital needs and may vary or change to support patient care and operational demands. All employees are scheduled and expected to work rotating holiday shifts in the emergency and critical care department, and required to participate in the on-call rotation as needed.
We are currently seeking a Veterinary Assistant to join our team. This temporary position is designed to support our Emergency and Specialty departments during periods of increased patient care demand, team member leave coverage, and staffing needs. This role is ideal for an assistant who enjoys a fast-paced environment, diverse caseload, and the opportunity to make an immediate impact on patient care.
Why Join Pacific Northwest Pet ER & Specialty Center
At Pacific Northwest Pet ER & Specialty Center, part of Ethos Veterinary Health, you'll work with advanced veterinary technology, including MRI, CT, and more, in a modern space complete with an employee garden. This role requires a high level of adaptability and the ability to quickly integrate into different teams, workflows, and case types, with department assignments varying from shift to shift, in a supportive work environment focused on wellness and mental health.
In your day-to-day, you will:
  • Manage and provide for the patient's needs in the emergency department, including patient order set-up
  • Assist technicians with radiographic procedures
  • Run lab work as directed by technician and prepare samples for outside lab testing
  • Obtain accurate patient history, ensure proper client communication and record keeping
  • Restrain patients for IV catheters, physical examinations, and minor procedures (e.g., central line placement and ultrasounds)
  • Complete treatments of patients as assigned in a timely manner, and initiate fluid therapy
  • Perform patient discharges and fill pre-printed prescriptions
  • Provide exceptional nursing care and treatment of all patients with respect
  • Work closely with veterinarians, technicians, and support teams
  • Contribute to a positive, team-focused hospital culture

What You Bring
  • Minimum of two years' experience in veterinary medicine; ER preferred
  • Must be able to obtain a Veterinary Medication Clerks License upon hire and keep active throughout employment
  • Valid high school diploma or GED
  • Knowledge of general veterinary procedures and protocols, and advanced patient handling and restraint
  • Excellent communication skills, strong work ethic, and a positive attitude
  • A collaborative mindset and commitment to exceptional patient care, with flexibility and adaptability to new situations

Perks & Benefits
Benefits for this role may include health insurance (medical, dental, vision), retirement benefits, paid time off (including sick leave and vacation), short-term and long-term disability, and life insurance
  • Competitive compensation, including a $2/hr shift differential for hours worked between 6pm-6am and a $2/hr weekend differential (12 a.m. Saturday to 11:59 p.m. Sunday)
  • Health, dental, and vision insurance
  • CE allowance and professional development support, including incentives for professional development
  • Retirement savings options (401k)
  • Staff pet discounts

Location Highlight
Vancouver, WA sits just across the river from Portland, OR, offering easy access to the amenities of a major metro area alongside a strong sense of local community. With the Columbia River Gorge and Mount Hood nearby, it's a great home base for outdoor recreation.
About Ethos Veterinary Health
Ethos Veterinary Health, part of the NVA Group, is where you come to practice world-class medicine, and help shape what veterinary care becomes next.
Across our network of 140 specialty and emergency hospitals, science moves forward, standards are elevated, and innovation is put into practice every day. You'll work alongside respected veterinary leaders in academic-caliber hospitals designed for learning, teaching, and discovery.
Here, mentorship is a two-way street. You'll share your expertise, learn from others, and continue to grow, clinically, professionally, and personally.
At Ethos, you inspire hope, deliver exceptional care, and pursue veterinary medicine at its highest level, together.
Join Us
At Ethos, this isn't just a job, it's an opportunity to practice medicine at the highest level and help shape the future of veterinary care.
Equal Opportunity Employer
Ethos is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Ethos does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, protected veteran or disabled status, or genetic information. All employment is decided based on qualifications, competence, merit, and business need.

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