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Table of contents

Vet tech resume examples
Choose the right resume format for your vet tech resume
How to write a vet tech resume in 5 simple steps
Add a cover letter
Key takeaways for your vet tech resume
Commonly asked questions about resume writing

Veterinary technicians are the backbone of animal care, weaving a delicate balance of compassionate care and technical savvy.

But, how do you explain that you know how to calm a nervous pup and hold down a frisky cat that won’t let you check its broken paw while still sounding professional, fitting everything you can do in one page and landing the interview?

If resume writing feels like uncharted territory — don’t worry. You’re not tackling this solo. We’ve made a guide to assist you. The goal is to craft a resume so good you’ll capture the attention of any clinic manager who comes across it.

In the realm of veterinary care, a well-constructed resume is your formal introduction to potential employers. Let’s ensure it accurately reflects you and your professional journey.

This guide features:

Diverse examples of resumes for vet techs across all stages of their careers.
Guidance on choosing the best resume format and design.
A step-by-step writing guide for every section of your resume.
Optional sections to consider adding to your resume.
How to add a persuasive cover letter for vet tech positions.

Need your resume in the next five minutes? Use our Resume Maker to choose a customizable template that meets your needs for a vet tech role. It’ll be as easy as filling it out with our auto-generated vet tech content suggestions and downloading it in your preferred format.

Vet tech resume examples

Entry-level vet tech resume example

Resume entry level example veterinary technician

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Here’s why this resume example works:

Future-focused resume objective
The resume begins with a forward-looking objective statement that conveys a strong enthusiasm, outlining their eagerness for applying their work ethic to delivering superior animal care. This sets a positive tone and signals commitment to prospective employers.
Well-organized skills section
The resume categorizes skills under clear, scannable headers like “Animal Care,” “Recordkeeping” and “Client Interaction.” This structured approach makes the information reader-friendly and also helps hiring managers quickly assess their top areas of expertise.
Concise summary of qualifications
A prominent summary of qualifications is strategically placed at the forefront of their resume. It succinctly highlights the essential skills needed for a vet tech, such as medical terminology, diagnostic support and preventive care knowledge, painting a clear picture of the candidate’s capabilities.

Experienced vet tech resume example

Resume experienced example veterinary technician

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Here’s why this resume example works:

Strategic use of data
Rather than simply listing job duties, this resume backs them up with quantifiable achievements, such as cost savings and improvements in client satisfaction rates. This approach shows the tangible impact of the vet tech’s contributions.
Features a balanced skill set
This resume showcases a well-rounded repertoire of skills, offering a mix of soft skills like critical thinking and advanced problem-solving with hard skills such as medical equipment maintenance.
Highlights certifications
Recognizing the importance of qualifications in the field, the resume prominently lists relevant certifications. This detail is vital in the vet tech industry, where certain certifications are truly essential if you want to land a job.

Looking for a different resume example? We have plenty of jobs that might interest you. Here’s a sneak peek of a pair of roles you might be curious about:

Choose the right resume format for your vet tech resume

Crafting a standout resume as a vet tech is all about choosing a structure that best showcases your expertise and background. Consider these distinct frameworks:

Reverse-chronological: Begin with your most recent vet tech role and work backward. This format, also known as a chronological resume, suits those with a steady work trajectory in veterinary services, highlighting career progression and deepening responsibilities.
Skills-based: This design emphasizes your vet tech skills over your job history, perfect for those new to the profession or returning after a hiatus. Also called a functional resume, this format directs attention to what you can contribute to animal health, rather than where you’ve done it.
Hybrid: Marrying the above approaches, this style, often called a combination resume, is for vet techs who boast a specific skill set and substantial experience. It gives a rounded portrayal of your professional narrative, spotlighting both your know-how and your work history.

After selecting the right framework, clarity is key. Choose a legible font and consistent margins and structure your information coherently. If you need a helping hand, consult our comprehensive guide on resume formatting.

A resume that’s easy to navigate can make a lasting impression. Armed with these insights, you’re equipped to assemble a vet tech resume that truly stands out.

Choose a vet tech resume template

Create your resume

In the veterinary field, your resume can be a reflection of the compassionate and healing nature of your work. While considering how to present your skills, experience and educational background, the design of your resume plays a big role.

For vet techs, a creative resume template can be a nod to the inventive and personalized care you provide. This industry often welcomes a splash of creativity, so you should feel comfortable showing this side of yourself.

However, there’s merit in opting for a simple or modern template as well. These clean and efficient designs ensure that your strengths shine without distraction. They speak to your ability to communicate vital information clearly and concisely — a trait as crucial in veterinary clinics as it is in any medical field.

Whether you choose a minimalist look or a more imaginative layout, the equilibrium lies in showing your individuality while keeping your career highlights in sharp focus. The key is to strike a balance: let your personality shine but never at the expense of the clear presentation of your qualifications and achievements.

Above all, clarity reigns supreme. Your resume should allow your professional journey and key competencies to be understood at a glance.

With these considerations in mind, let’s craft a resume that not only showcases your capabilities as a vet tech but also captures the essence of your professional ethos.

How to write a vet tech resume in 5 simple steps

Building an impressive vet tech resume is all about thoughtful preparation. Let’s go through a streamlined, step-by-step approach to developing your resume.

By the end, you’ll know how to write a resume like the best resume writers in the business.

Step 1

Understand the vet tech position thoroughly

Your first task is to understand the demands of the vet tech position. Veterinary practices often use automated programs called applicant tracking systems (ATS) to scan resumes for certain keywords. Missing these could mean your resume goes unnoticed.

So, how do you find these critical keywords to make your resume ATS-friendly?

Start by examining the job advertisement thoroughly. It’s a treasure trove that outlines exactly what the practice is looking for.

Key phrases like “pet care,” “laboratory work,” “animal handling,” or “surgical assistance” are not just industry lingo — they are indicators of what your resume needs to address.

Instead of clustering these phrases in one section, weave them throughout your resume: from your opening statement through to your listed skills and previous roles. Doing so shows your understanding of the duties and responsibilities.

While it may seem like extra work, this tailoring is your strategic advantage. It transforms your resume from a generic submission to a tailored representation of a valuable candidate.

With this groundwork laid out, you’re ready to stand apart from the pack. Now, let’s make sure your skills and experiences are showcased to their fullest potential.

Step 2

Write a professional summary or resume objective

The opening segment of your resume is where you make your mark, and for vet techs, this means starting with a powerful introduction. You can opt for a professional summary if you have experience, or a career objective if you’re new to the field.

For seasoned vet techs, a professional summary will succinctly showcase your practical experience and the contributions you’ve made to past practices.

Conversely, a resume objective is suited for those who are either newly qualified, transitioning from another field or targeting a particular niche in veterinary care. It should reflect your ambitions and demonstrate how they match the goals of the prospective employer.

Here are samples tailored for vet tech resumes:

Professional summary example:

Devoted veterinary technician with over eight years of experience in high-volume animal hospitals. Renowned for delivering compassionate care, managing surgical assistance and leading preventative health programs. Proven track record in managing a diverse caseload, working collaboratively with veterinary teams and enhancing patient outcomes.

Resume objective example:

Newly certified veterinary technician eager to bring a fresh perspective and an enthusiastic work ethic to a dynamic team like XYZ Animal Hospital. Intent on applying a strong foundation in animal care, diagnostic skills and a compassionate approach to supporting the health and wellness of every patient.

Step 3

Highlight relevant veterinary tech skills

Crafting the perfect vet tech resume means including the right mix of skills. Consider your resume a canvas where your professional abilities and personal attributes come together to form the full picture of who you are as a veterinary technician.

Hard skills for a vet tech are specific and acquired through education and hands-on experience. These are your diagnostic tools, so to speak, showcasing your competency in the practical aspects of veterinary care.

In contrast, your soft skills reflect the essence of your professional persona — they are the heart behind the science, influencing how you engage with animals, their owners and your colleagues.

Digital literacy is also increasingly important, as vet techs must navigate various software for patient records and treatment plans.

Let’s explore the skills that will make your vet tech resume stand out.

Hard and soft skills for a vet tech resume:

Hard Skills

Clinical and surgical assistance
Knowledge of veterinary pharmacology
Animal care and handling
Diagnostic imaging (e.g., X-ray operation)
Medical recordkeeping

Soft Skills

Compassion for animals and pet owners
Effective communicator
Problem-solving mindset
Adaptability in fast-paced situations
Attention to detail

Example of a vet tech skills section:

Adept in providing clinical support for surgical procedures, ensuring animal welfare.
Proficient in veterinary software for comprehensive medical record management.
Empathetic professional skilled in communicating with pet owners about their animal’s health.
Resourceful and adaptable, capable of addressing and resolving unforeseen complications.
Detail-focused, committed to maintaining the highest standards of veterinary care compliance.

Pro tip

Don’t overlook the importance of computer skills. As veterinary practices integrate more tech-driven solutions, familiarity with veterinary databases and diagnostic tools becomes a marketable asset.

Step 4

Write a strong work experience section

As a vet tech, you’ve got hands-on work experience that’s vital for helping animals and supporting veterinarians. Your work is fast-paced and full of surprises, so it’s important to show what you’ve done in a clear way.

Try listing your job experiences and achievements with bullet points that are easy to read, like this:

Here’s how you might structure your experience as a vet tech:

Veterinary Technician, Happy Paws Veterinary Clinic
St. Louis, MO
March 2018 – Present

Implemented a new triage system that increased efficiency of emergency care by 25%.
Cultivated strong relationships with clients, providing education on pet health that led to a 15% decrease in preventable illnesses.
Conducted over 500 successful blood draws, IV placements and catheterizations with minimal distress to the patients.
Developed and led a staff training program that improved the clinic’s patient processing speed by 20%.
Managed the transition to a digital recordkeeping system, improving data retrieval times by 50% for patient histories and treatment plans.

Pro tip

Revamp your role descriptions using vigorous action verbs like “revitalized,” “fostered” or “pioneered.” Such terms not only inject energy into your narrative but also frame you as an innovator and dedicated caregiver in the veterinary field.

Step 5

Add education and certifications to your resume

For vet techs, adding education to your resume will show you have training in animal physiology, veterinary medicine and clinical procedures.

It’s essential to list your degrees and any special certifications to show your dedication and readiness to handle even complicated veterinary work.

Here’s how you might outline your educational background:

Education:

Associate of Applied Science in Veterinary Technology
[Your College Name], [City, State]
Graduation Year: [Year]

Achieved Dean’s List for exceptional academic performance.
Completed 200 hours of clinical practice, gaining hands-on experience in animal care and diagnostics.

Certifications:

Certified Veterinary Technician (CVT)
[Certifying Body], [Year]

Optional sections for your resume

Professional affiliations

Dedication to professional development is showcased through active memberships in key associations. These affiliations highlight a commitment to the latest practices and industry standards.

How to present your professional affiliations:

National Association of Veterinary Technicians in America (NAVTA) – Engaged member with consistent participation in symposiums and educational forums.
[Your State] Association of Veterinary Technicians – Regular contributor to association publications and participant in ongoing educational programs.

Volunteer experience

Volunteering in various capacities reflects a vet tech’s passion for animal welfare and community service. Such experiences can often mirror the multifaceted nature of veterinary work.

How to list your volunteer experience:

Animal Rescue Foundation – Administered critical medical care and performed health evaluations for animals in need, directly contributing to successful rehabilitation and adoption.
Veterinary Care Without Borders – Offered essential veterinary services in underserved areas, demonstrating global awareness and compassion.

Publications and research

Publications and participation in research underscore a vet tech’s engagement with the scientific community and their contribution to advancing veterinary medicine.

How to detail your publications:

Roe, S., Doe, A., & Smith, J. (2021). Innovative approaches to feline nutrition. Journal of Feline Medicine and Surgery, 23(5), 342-355.
Doe, A., Smith, J., & White, B. (2020). Understanding the behavioral signals in domesticated rabbits. Veterinary Behavior, 15(2), 89-98.

Honors and awards

Awards and honors serve as tangible proof of a vet tech’s expertise, reliability and outstanding contributions to their field.

How to showcase your honors and awards:

Honored with “Veterinary Technician of the Year” in 2021 by the [Your County] Veterinary Association for extraordinary patient care and community service.
Received “Commitment to Care” accolade from [Clinic Name] in 2022 for unwavering dedication to animal health and client support.

Conference presentations

Active participation in conferences indicates a vet tech’s eagerness to stay at the forefront of the profession, learning and sharing knowledge on the latest advancements.

How to mention your presentations:

Smith, J. (2022, August). The impact of urban environments on domestic dog behavior. Poster session presented at the International Conference on Animal Welfare, San Francisco, CA.
Smith, J. (2021, October). The role of veterinary technicians in wildlife rehabilitation. Workshop conducted at the National Veterinary Conference, Orlando, FL.

Add a cover letter

Cover letter example veterinary technician

Create your cover letter

Writing a persuasive cover letter could set you apart in your job hunt.

See your cover letter as your personal story — an opportunity to go beyond the bullet points of your resume. This is where you get to tell about the time you calmed a nervous kitten or reorganized the clinic’s storage for better efficiency.

The cover letter can also clarify gaps in work history, such as taking time off for personal development or family. It’s your space to highlight how these experiences have honed your skills as a vet tech.

The aim of the cover letter is simplicity and directness. A well-written cover letter is easy to read and shows off your thoughtful, methodical approach. It’s helpful to review some cover letter samples for inspiration.

If crafting the perfect letter seems a bit much, don’t worry. There are tools like cover letter builders that can help you begin. From there, you can infuse it with details that capture who you are.

Together with your resume, your cover letter is your ambassador.

As we close, here are a few final tips to keep in mind.

Key takeaways for your vet tech resume

Incorporate keywords from the job post

Your resume should reflect the specific language found in the veterinary job posting. Become familiar with the terms used and weave these into your skills and experiences.
Structure your resume for maximum effectiveness

Opt for a resume layout that best showcases your strengths. If you have a consistent history as a vet tech, a chronological format might best illustrate your career path.
Keep it clear and professional

Your resume should be as straightforward and polished as your approach to animal care. Choose a clean look that makes it easy for employers to see your qualifications at a glance.
Highlight a range of skills

List your capabilities, ensuring to include both technical skills, like proficiency in veterinary software or knowledge of animal behavior, and soft skills, such as empathy and communication.
Emphasize your qualifications

Certifications such as a veterinary technician certification or specialized animal care training confirm your expertise and commitment. Make sure to list these prominently.
Highlight what you’ve accomplished

Beyond day-to-day tasks, showcase how you’ve made a difference. Have you implemented a new procedure to increase efficiency or played a key role in a clinic-wide project?
Include a thoughtful cover letter

A cover letter gives you the opportunity to expand on your dedication to animal health care. Here’s your chance to show genuine enthusiasm for veterinary medicine.

Commonly asked questions about resume writing

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Don is a Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW) with more than 10 years’ experience creating digital content, including four years helping job seekers develop their careers. He holds an M.S. in Journalism from Northwestern University.