Job requirements for veterinary technologists and technicians

Whether their patients have fur, fins, scales, or wings, 40.7 percent of veterinary technologists and technicians are required to have at least a high school diploma, and 33.8 percent are required to have prior work experience. Additionally, 79.0 percent of these workers are exposed to wet environmental conditions, and 93.5 percent are exposed to a moderate noise intensity level. All (100 percent) veterinary technologists and technicians are required to perform fine and gross manipulation and 36.5 percent are required to have far visual acuity.

Veterinary technologists and technicians assist licensed veterinarians in diagnosing injuries and illnesses of animals. Workers in these occupations work in a range of settings, including private clinics, laboratories, and animal hospitals. Their jobs can be physically and emotionally challenging, and some have to work evenings, weekends, and holidays. Additionally, in 2017 the veterinary service industry had the fourth highest incidence of nonfatal workplace injuries and illnesses in private industry.

These data are from the Occupational Requirements Survey. To learn more, see “Occupational Requirements in the United States — 2018.” To learn more about veterinary technologists and technicians, see the Occupational Outlook Handbook.