Veterinary Tech Salary and Benefits
Learn about the salary and benefits of a veterinary technician career.
Vet Tech Salary
As with most professions, more experienced veterinary technicians have the opportunity to earn higher salaries. Experience and knowledge lead to a deeper understanding of your work, greater responsibility and higher earning potential.
Also, there are vet tech salary differences depending on where you choose to work. On average, veterinary techs working in animal research may have lower starting salaries but quickly graduate to higher salaries than those working in animal care clinics. See the veterinary technician interview for more details on benefits and hours.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics' 2012-13 Occupational Outlook Handbook, the median national annual salary for veterinary technologists and technicians is $29,710. Actual salaries may vary greatly based on specialization within the field, location, years of experience and a variety of other factors.
Job Benefits
Whether you work in a private practice or for a corporation, a full-time vet tech may be offered benefits that include:
- Vacation pay
- Holiday pay
- Sick leave
- 401(k) plan
- Health benefits
Benefits packages also vary depending on area of practice and employer.
Informational Interviews
During your certification training to become a veterinary technician, an excellent idea is to call vet techs already working in the field for informational interviews. They are beneficial for several reasons:
- They provide you with a clearer understanding of the job. Research labs, clinics and zoos are all unique work environments.
- They are an excellent networking opportunity. You’ll have a ready-made list of people to contact when you finish your training.
- Finally, interviews give the clinics a chance to meet you. It’s much easier to hire someone when they feel they already know you.
Don’t be shy. Pick up the phone and talk to people. You’ll find that people are very helpful when they meet someone with a common interest.
Education Guide
Veterinary Technician Education
Read about course information and requirements toward your certification.
Certification Information
Learn what you need to do to become a certified veterinary technician.
School Accreditation
Get information about the benefits of attending an accredited vet tech school.
Professional Interview
Read the interview of an experienced veterinary technician and get an inside look at the profession.
Training Information
Find out how to choose the right education program and internship.
Career Guide
Career Options
Discover some of your options when you are choosing a veterinary technician career.
Job Information
Find out the responsibilities of a veterinary technician and the tasks they perform.
Veterinary Tech Specialties
Check out some of the specialties a veterinary technician career offers.
Salary Information
Find information about the earning potential of different veterinary technician jobs.
Veterinary Assistant Career
Learn about getting into the field as a veterinary assistant and the duties they perform.
Resources and Links
Browse a compiled list of vet tech resources to research your certification.