Most veterinary technicians work in clinics and animal hospitals. Salaries are relatively low, considering the educational requirements, stress of the work and some odd work hours, including evenings and weekends. Higher pay and more regular hours are available for vet techs working in research facilities.Starting Salary
- Median starting salary for vet techs as of 2009 is about $28,000 annually, with an increase to $30,000 with 5 years of experience.
General Range
- Although veterinary technologists generally have a bachelor's degree while technicians have an associate degree, U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics research shows that the two jobs generally have the same duties and pay rate. BLS statistics indicate that about 80 percent of vet technicians and technologists earned between $20,000 and $42,000 in 2008.
Considerations
- Sometimes only part-time positions are offered that can pay as low as $10 an hour and do not include benefits. Vet techs typically must work one or two evenings a week, as well as some weekend hours.
Location
- Pay is on the higher end of the scale in large practices located in metropolitan areas, but vet techs must then consider the higher cost of living as well.
Higher-Pay Opportunities
- Vet techs working for universities, private industry or the federal government can earn more, generally between $40,000 and $60,000. These jobs are typically in the area of animal-lab research technician.
Read more: About Vet Tech Salaries | eHow.com http://www.ehow.com/facts_5017616_vet-tech-salaries.html#ixzz1gnjiznIo
