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.
SOC: 29-2056.00
Common Job Titles
Certified Veterinary Technician (CVT)
Licensed Veterinary Technician (LVT)
Registered Veterinary Technician (RVT)
Veterinary Technician (Vet Tech)
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generated
Key competencies for this occupation at a glance
Hands-onExecute venipuncture and blood sample collection procedures using appropriate restraint techniques and sterile equipment for multiple animal species.
Proficient
KnowledgeAnalyze laboratory test results including urinalysis, blood counts, and chemistry panels to support veterinary diagnosis and treatment planning.
Proficient
Hands-onOperate veterinary anesthesia equipment and patient monitoring systems during surgical procedures under veterinarian supervision.
Proficient
Hands-onExecute precisely sterilization procedures for surgical instruments and laboratory materials using autoclaves and gas sterilizers while maintaining aseptic technique.
Proficient
KnowledgeEvaluate animal vital signs and clinical indicators using cardiac monitors, pulse oximeters, and blood pressure equipment during critical care.
Proficient
KnowledgeAssess laboratory equipment functionality and quality control measures to maintain accuracy of diagnostic testing and identify maintenance needs.
Proficient
MindsetIntegrate patient safety protocols with clinical efficiency when prioritizing multiple urgent cases in fast-paced veterinary settings.
Proficient
Hands-onDemonstrate mastery of animal restraint and handling techniques adapting methods to species-specific behaviors and minimizing patient stress.
Proficient
Hands-onPerform tissue sample preparation and processing following standardized laboratory protocols for histopathological examination.
Developing
MindsetEngage with animal patients and their owners to provide compassionate care and clear communication about treatment procedures.
Developing
Hands-onPerform diagnostic imaging procedures including radiography and ultrasound while following radiation safety protocols and proper patient positioning.
Developing
KnowledgeApply pharmacological knowledge to prepare vaccines, serums, and medications ensuring accurate dosage calculations for various animal species and weights.
Developing
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Annual wage data for Veterinary Technologists and Technicians (2024)
Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)
131,320
Wage Distribution by Percentile
Line chart of annual wages by percentile. U.S. is the solid line. 10th percentile: U.S. $32,120. 25th percentile: U.S. $37,390. 50th percentile: U.S. $45,980. 75th percentile: U.S. $50,960. 90th percentile: U.S. $60,880. Use the left and right arrow keys to move between percentiles.
U.S.
Metric
U.S.
10% of workers earn the following or less
$32,120
10% of workers earn the following or more
$60,880
Workers on average earn
$46,280
+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)
Skills & Requirements
Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance
Medicine and Dentistry4.1/5
Customer and Personal Service4.1/5
Biology4.0/5
English Language4.0/5
Mathematics3.5/5
Skills & Requirements: Knowledge
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
