How Much Do Veterinary Technicians Make an Hour? A Detailed Overview
- Veterinary Technician Salary Overview
- Factors That Affect Veterinary Technician Salary
- How to Increase Your Salary as a Veterinary Technician
- Real-Life Stories of Veterinary Technicians
Veterinary Technician Salary Overview
If you're considering a career as a veterinary technician, one of the first questions you might ask is, "How much do veterinary technicians make an hour?" The salary of a veterinary technician can vary depending on several factors such as location, experience, and the type of practice they work in. On average, veterinary technicians in the United States earn around $16 to $25 per hour, with some experienced professionals earning upwards of $30 per hour in certain regions.
The role of a veterinary technician is similar to that of a nurse in a human medical setting, but for animals. Their duties include assisting veterinarians in medical procedures, taking care of animals in treatment, conducting diagnostic tests, and providing essential care to pets. Due to the increasing demand for veterinary care, especially in urban areas, the job outlook for veterinary technicians is strong, with salaries expected to rise in the coming years.
Factors That Affect Veterinary Technician Salary
The salary of a veterinary technician can be influenced by a variety of factors. Let’s dive into the key elements that determine how much a veterinary technician makes per hour:
1. Location
One of the most significant factors that influence veterinary technician salaries is location. Veterinary technicians working in urban or high-cost-of-living areas tend to earn higher wages than those in rural areas. For instance, veterinary technicians in California or New York may earn more than their counterparts in smaller towns in the Midwest. The cost of living in these areas affects wage expectations and job availability.
2. Experience
Experience plays a significant role in determining the hourly wage of a veterinary technician. Entry-level technicians typically earn less than those with several years of experience. Experienced veterinary technicians often have specialized skills and may even hold certifications that make them more valuable to employers. Over time, you can expect your hourly wage to increase as you gain more experience in the field.
3. Specialty and Education
Veterinary technicians with specialized training or certifications tend to earn more than generalists. Specializations in fields such as anesthesia, dental care, or emergency and critical care can lead to higher pay. Additionally, holding an advanced degree or certifications from organizations like the American Association of Veterinary State Boards (AAVSB) can make you more competitive in the job market and increase your earning potential.
4. Type of Employer
The type of veterinary practice you work for also plays a role in your salary. Veterinary technicians working in large animal hospitals or research facilities may earn more than those working in smaller, private practices or clinics. Additionally, some veterinary technicians work in teaching or public health settings, where the pay might be higher due to the nature of the work.
How to Increase Your Salary as a Veterinary Technician
While the starting salary of a veterinary technician is competitive, there are ways to increase your hourly wage as you progress in your career:
1. Gain Experience
Experience is key to increasing your salary as a veterinary technician. As you gain more experience and take on more responsibilities, your value to employers increases. For example, senior technicians or those with supervisory roles often earn higher wages than entry-level technicians.
2. Pursue Specializations and Certifications
Specializing in a particular area of veterinary care, such as dentistry or surgery, can significantly boost your earning potential. Many veterinary technicians choose to pursue certifications in their areas of interest, which not only increases their expertise but also makes them more attractive to potential employers. For instance, becoming a Certified Veterinary Technician (CVT) or a Veterinary Technician Specialist (VTS) can help you command higher pay rates.
3. Seek Employment in High-Demand Areas
If you’re open to relocating, consider seeking employment in areas with high demand for veterinary technicians, such as urban centers or regions with high pet ownership. These areas often offer better compensation and more job opportunities. In addition, working for large veterinary hospitals or research institutions can also lead to higher pay.
4. Continuous Learning and Professional Development
Attending workshops, continuing education programs, and staying up to date on the latest veterinary technologies and best practices can make you a more valuable employee and increase your potential to earn a higher salary.
Real-Life Stories of Veterinary Technicians
Meet Jessica, a veterinary technician from a small town in Florida. She started her career making $17 per hour at a local animal clinic, but after gaining five years of experience and earning certifications in surgical assistance and anesthesia, her hourly wage increased to $26 per hour. She now works at a large animal hospital where she supervises a team of veterinary technicians and earns even more.
Another example is Mark, who decided to specialize in emergency and critical care. After completing his certification, he was able to secure a job at a 24-hour emergency veterinary clinic, where his hourly wage jumped to $30 per hour. Mark credits his decision to specialize as the key to advancing in his career and boosting his income.
