Veterinary Technologists and Technicians

Job Zone 3 - Medium preparation needed

Perform medical tests in a laboratory environment for use in the treatment and diagnosis of diseases in animals. Prepare vaccines and serums for prevention of diseases. Prepare tissue samples, take blood samples, and execute laboratory tests, such as urinalysis and blood counts. Clean and sterilize instruments and materials and maintain equipment and machines. May assist a veterinarian during surgery.

Pay & job outlook

Median pay: $47,380/yr (U.S. national, May 2025)

$35,710$63,180

Typical range nationwide (10th–90th percentile). This is a population snapshot, not a personal prediction - actual pay varies by location, employer, and experience.

Job outlook: +9.1% projected growth, 2024–2034 — faster than average.

About 14,300 openings per year, on average, over the decade.

Typical entry-level education: Associate's degree.

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, OEWS and Employment Projections.

Top skills

Critical ThinkingActive ListeningSpeakingReading ComprehensionMonitoringWritingComplex Problem SolvingSocial PerceptivenessActive LearningCoordination

Top knowledge areas

Medicine and DentistryCustomer and Personal ServiceBiologyEnglish LanguageMathematicsChemistryComputers and ElectronicsAdministrative

Core tasks

• Administer anesthesia to animals, under the direction of a veterinarian, and monitor animals' responses to anesthetics so that dosages can be adjusted.

• Care for and monitor the condition of animals recovering from surgery.

• Maintain controlled drug inventory and related log books.

• Perform laboratory tests on blood, urine, or feces, such as urinalyses or blood counts, to assist in the diagnosis and treatment of animal health problems.

• Prepare and administer medications, vaccines, serums, or treatments, as prescribed by veterinarians.

• Restrain animals during exams or procedures.

• Administer emergency first aid, such as performing emergency resuscitation or other life saving procedures.

• Clean and sterilize instruments, equipment, or materials.

Frequently asked questions

What's the median pay for Veterinary Technologists and Technicians?

The median pay for Veterinary Technologists and Technicians is $47,380 per year, per the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

What's the job outlook for Veterinary Technologists and Technicians?

Employment for Veterinary Technologists and Technicians is projected to change +9.1% from 2024 to 2034 - faster than average.

What education is typically required for Veterinary Technologists and Technicians?

Typical entry-level education: Associate's degree.

How many job openings are there each year for Veterinary Technologists and Technicians?

About 14,300 openings per year, on average, over the decade.