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Veterinary Tech Jobs in Rochester, NY (NOW HIRING)

Thrive Pet Healthcare

Veterinary Assistant

Victor, NY · On-site

$15 - $19/hr

Founded by veterinarians, the organization provides industry-first benefits for practice staff while elevating privately held veterinary hospitals with innovative service and technology solutions. By ...

Thrive Pet Healthcare

Veterinary Assistant

Webster, NY · On-site

$14.50 - $18.25/hr

Founded by veterinarians, the organization provides industry-first benefits for practice staff while elevating privately held veterinary hospitals with innovative service and technology solutions. By ...

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All JobsVeterinary Tech JobsVeterinary Tech Jobs in Rochester, NY

Veterinary Tech information

See Rochester, NY salary details

$11

$21

$31

How much do veterinary tech jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for veterinary tech in Rochester, NY is $21.42, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.55 and $24.42 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Can I live off being a vet tech?

Veterinary technicians typically earn a moderate salary that may not be sufficient as the sole income for a household, especially considering the physical demands and certification requirements of the role. Many vet techs supplement their income through additional work, benefits, or part-time jobs, and career advancement or specialization can lead to higher earnings. Overall, living comfortably solely on a vet tech salary depends on individual circumstances and cost of living.

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

To thrive as a Veterinary Tech, you need a solid understanding of animal care, medical procedures, and laboratory techniques, typically gained through a veterinary technology degree and state certification. Familiarity with veterinary practice management software, diagnostic imaging equipment, and laboratory tools is essential. Compassion, attention to detail, and strong communication skills help you work effectively with animals, clients, and veterinary teams. These skills and qualities ensure accurate patient care, client satisfaction, and smooth clinic operations.

How many years does it take to be a vet tech?

Becoming a veterinary technician typically requires completing a 2-year associate degree program in veterinary technology. After graduation, passing a credentialing exam is usually necessary to become licensed or certified, depending on the state or country. Some programs may offer a 4-year bachelor's degree for advanced roles or specialization.

What are some common challenges Veterinary Technicians face when working in busy animal hospitals?

Veterinary Technicians in busy animal hospitals often encounter challenges such as managing a high caseload, prioritizing urgent cases, and maintaining effective communication with both veterinarians and pet owners. Multitasking is essential, as techs may need to assist with surgeries, perform lab work, and handle administrative duties all in one shift. Building resilience and strong organizational skills helps techs thrive in this fast-paced environment while ensuring the highest standard of patient care.

What else can I do with a vet tech degree?

A veterinary technician degree can lead to careers in animal shelter work, research, or specialized fields such as anesthesia, dentistry, or emergency care. Many vet techs also pursue certifications to advance into supervisory roles or work in veterinary practice management, often utilizing skills in animal handling, medical procedures, and client communication.

What is the difference between Veterinary Tech vs Veterinary Assistant?

AspectVeterinary TechVeterinary Assistant
CredentialsAssociate degree, certification (CVT)High school diploma or equivalent
Work EnvironmentClinics, hospitals, labsAnimal shelters, clinics, grooming
Job ResponsibilitiesPerform diagnostics, assist in surgeries, administer medicationsAnimal restraint, cleaning, basic care

Veterinary Techs have formal education and certification, allowing them to perform more complex medical tasks. Veterinary Assistants support daily operations and animal care but typically do not perform clinical procedures. Both roles are essential in veterinary settings, but Veterinary Techs have a higher level of training and responsibility.

What is the highest paying vet tech job?

The highest paying veterinary technician roles are often specialized positions such as veterinary anesthetists or surgical technicians, which require advanced certifications and experience. These roles typically offer higher salaries due to their specialized skills and responsibilities within veterinary practices or research settings.

What are veterinary techs?

Veterinary techs, or veterinary technicians, are trained professionals who assist veterinarians in the care and treatment of animals. Their responsibilities include conducting laboratory tests, preparing animals for surgery, administering medications, and providing nursing care. They play a vital role in both animal hospitals and veterinary clinics, helping ensure the well-being of animals and supporting pet owners. To become a vet tech, one typically needs to complete an accredited veterinary technology program and pass a licensing exam.

Is a vet tech degree worth it?

A veterinary technician degree provides the necessary education and skills to work in veterinary clinics, assisting with animal care, diagnostics, and treatments. It typically leads to certification or licensing, which can improve job prospects and earning potential in the veterinary field.
What are the most commonly searched types of Veterinary Tech jobs in Rochester, NY? The most popular types of Veterinary Tech jobs in Rochester, NY are:
What cities near Rochester, NY are hiring for Veterinary Tech jobs? Cities near Rochester, NY with the most Veterinary Tech job openings:
Veterinary Tech jobs near you
Infographic showing various Veterinary Tech job openings in Rochester, NY as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $44,562 per year, or $21.4 per hour.
Licensed Veterinary Technician

Licensed Veterinary Technician

Fairview Veterinary Hospital

Fairport, NY

$22 - $26/hr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement

Posted 22 days ago

Job description

Description

Licensed Veterinary Technician

Fairview Veterinary Hospital

Rochester, NY - Full-Time

$5,000 Sign-On Bonus

Thrive Pet Healthcare is one of the first veterinary services offering a comprehensive continuum of care for pets’ primary, specialty, and acute needs. Through a nationwide community of over 360 veterinary providers, and an industry-leading membership program, Thrive Pet Healthcare provides personalized, accessible care through every stage of a pet’s life and health. Founded by veterinarians, the organization provides industry-first benefits for practice staff while elevating privately held veterinary hospitals with innovative service and technology solutions. By focusing on the needs of care providers and professional collaboration, Thrive Pet Healthcare is supporting the well-being of the industry and raising the national bar for veterinary excellence.

Our Ideal Candidate:

Passionate about animal care, highly motivated, and pays attention to detail. Our Veterinary Technicians are the heartbeat of our team and work side by side with our Veterinarians (DVMs) during procedures.  A full-time position would require working between 30-40 hours a week, which includes a combination of day, evening, weekend, and holiday shifts. One weekend shift is required.

Job Duties:

  • Support veterinarians to ensure quality veterinary care, advocate for pets, and educate clients.
    With each hospital function, assist veterinarians and the medical team to maximize productivity and maintain positive patient flow.
  • Assist with surgeries and procedures in accordance with your state's Veterinary Practice Act outlined for credentialed veterinary technicians.
  • Monitoring and assessing patient’s status 
  • Collecting blood and other samples for testing 
  • Placing catheters 
  • Communicate with clients about individualized pet health concerns and offer guidance on Thrive Membership options, medications, and additional treatments.
  • Assist in maintaining relevant, comprehensive medical records with the support of practice systems.
  • Obtain relevant health history and information from clients and maintain medical charts.
  • Use safe restraining techniques, follow standard protocols, and sustain clean, sterile, organized treatment areas, exam rooms, and labs.
  • Be willing to guide, mentor, and support fellow team members.

Experience & Skills Requirements:

  • Veterinary technician licensure required
  • 1-2 years of clinical experience
  • An Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree from an AVMA-accredited veterinary technology program preferred; or the equivalent combination of education, training and experience that provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities.
  • Ability to lift up to 50 pounds, squatting, reach, standing, and walking throughout the day. 

Benefits – our care in action

Thrive offers a suite of benefits to support team members’ emotional, physical, professional, and financial wellbeing. In addition to our health and life insurance, and short- and long- term disability plans, we offer eligible team members:

  • Competitive pay
  • 401(k) with employer match
  • Mental health resources, including easy access to therapy through Lyra Health
  • Paid parental leave
  • Purr-ental leave for when you adopt a pet
  • Subsidized backup childcare and elder care
  • Expert advice, support and network discounts for fertility and family planning
  • FREE CE courses
  • Pet perks and veterinary service discounts
  • Student loan support tools and assistance

Some benefits shown are only for full-time team members who work 30 hours or more per week. Certain Benefits may be subject to waiting periods or length of service requirements.

Who We Are

Thrive Pet Healthcare is united by our mission to create the future of pet well-being through medical excellence, innovative technology, and a connected community of teams and partners. We exist to nurture both pets and people through meaningful relationships and exceptional veterinary care.

Our Support Office teams' power that mission by supporting our hospitals through operational excellence, innovative programs, people-centered culture, and forward-thinking business solutions — all while having plenty of fun along the way.

We nurture pets & people through meaningful relationships and exceptional pet care—and we are united by a shared set of values.

  • Service – delivering exceptional service
  • Empathy – leading with care
  • Accountability – achieve meaningful outcomes
  • Joy – be a source of light
  • Exploration – learn to fuel growth
  • Team – connect for success

Read more about us here.

Compensation negotiable based on credentials and experience with a starting rate ranging from $22-26/hr. We are now offering a $5,000 Sign-On Bonus! The actual rate offered will carefully consider a wide range of factors, including your skills, qualifications, experience, and location.