In this Article
By: All Allied Health Staff
The veterinary technician field is growing rapidly in Ohio, with a projected 10% job growth rate in the state through 2030, says O*NET. This projection is higher than the national job growth rate through 2034—3% for all careers combined said the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS)—but less than the national average for vet techs outlined below. Opportunities may be available in various settings, including private clinics, animal hospitals, research facilities and zoos, providing a range of experiences and specialties. Other reasons to consider Ohio for your vet tech education and career include:
- Active professional organizations, like the Ohio Association of Veterinary Technicians (OAVT), offer support, continuing education and networking opportunities.
- Ohio has several AVMA-accredited veterinary technology programs, making it accessible to obtain the necessary education and credentials.
- Working as a vet tech allows you to make a significant impact on animal health and welfare, providing a rewarding and satisfying career.
Quick view of vet techs in Ohio
There are 4,320 people employed as veterinary technicians and technologists in Ohio, said the BLS. The median wage per hour is $22 and the forecasted job growth for the coming decade is 9.1%, considerably higher than the job growth rate for all other career fields combined, said the BLS.
Veterinary technicians in Ohio play a crucial role in animal healthcare, assisting veterinarians in various tasks. They commonly work with small domestic pets like cats and dogs, performing duties such as administering medications, conducting laboratory tests and assisting in surgeries. In rural areas of Ohio, vet techs may also tend to livestock such as cattle, sheep and horses, providing medical care, monitoring health conditions and assisting with births. Their responsibilities vary based on the setting, but they generally support veterinary practices to ensure the well-being of animals under their care.
Here are five top employers in Ohio for vet techs that encompass a variety of settings including domestic animals, livestock and educational or research facilities:
- The Ohio State University Veterinary Medical Center, Columbus, OH:
- Located in Columbus, this facility offers comprehensive veterinary services for both small animals and livestock. It also serves as a hub for research and education in veterinary medicine.
- Cleveland Metroparks Zoo, Cleveland, OH:
- This zoo employs vet techs to care for a diverse range of exotic animals. They assist with medical treatments, surgeries and conservation efforts, making it a unique opportunity for vet techs interested in wildlife.
- Ohio Department of Agriculture, Reynoldsburg, OH:
- The state’s agricultural department employs vet techs to oversee livestock health, conduct inspections, and implement disease control measures across Ohio’s farms and agricultural facilities.
- MedVet Medical & Cancer Centers for Pets, Columbus, Worthington and multiple locations, OH:
- With multiple locations across Ohio, MedVet provides specialized veterinary care for pets, including emergency services, oncology and advanced surgical procedures, offering opportunities for vet techs to work with small domestic animals in a specialized medical setting.
- Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, Columbus, OH:
- Similar to the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo, this facility in Columbus hires vet techs to care for a wide variety of animals, including both domesticated and exotic species. They play a crucial role in animal health management, enrichment and conservation efforts.
Salary quick stats
While the median national salary for vet technicians and technologists—is just over $45,980 a year, pay may vary depending upon several factors, including where you work and live, how much experience you have, what kind of animals you work with, what specialty certifications you have earned and your level of education.
Median vet tech salary in Ohio
The median annual salary for veterinary technicians and technologists in Ohio is $46,390. Despite it’s diverse animal population—from pets to livestock—Ohio does not rank in the top five paying states in the U.S. said the BLS. However, it’s important to note that salaries may vary based on location within the state. The salary widget below provides the median national wage along with data for different metro areas in Ohio, listed by highest paying cities first. You can see that Columbus, which is home to The Ohio State Veterinary Medical Center and the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, pays best, followed by Cincinnati, Toldeo, Dayton and Cleveland.
Veterinary Technologists and Technicians
10%$28,300
25%$36,420
50%$46,390Median
75%$48,880
90%$58,560
Median Hourly Wage$22
Job growth9.1%
Total Employment4,720
| Metro area | Median Salary | Bottom 10% | Top 10% |
|---|---|---|---|
| Columbus, OH | $47,800 | $28,140 | $62,050 |
| Cleveland, OH | $47,410 | $28,580 | $59,040 |
| Dayton-Kettering-Beavercreek, OH | $46,620 | $28,300 | $57,850 |
| Akron, OH | $46,390 | $30,170 | $58,350 |
| Toledo, OH | $45,780 | $30,030 | $57,720 |
| Canton-Massillon, OH | $44,880 | $24,570 | $48,660 |
| Cincinnati, OH-KY-IN | $44,860 | $27,910 | $57,500 |
| Youngstown-Warren, OH | $43,690 | $30,090 | $47,660 |
| Springfield, OH | $40,830 | $28,880 | $53,040 |
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) 2024 median salary; projected job growth through 2034. Actual salaries may vary depending on location, level of education, years of experience, work environment, and other factors. Salaries may differ even more for those who are self-employed or work part time.
Salary range for Ohio vet techs
The salary range for vet techs in Ohio typically spans from $28,300 to $58,560 per year. This accounts for entry-level positions to senior-level, research and technologist roles and takes into consideration other factors such as experience, education and time in the position.
A word about vet technicians and technologists and why salaries may differ:
Veterinary technologists are similar to vet techs, but there’s a difference in terms of education needed to do the job. Veterinary technologists hold a bachelor’s degree in veterinary technology, which may provide more opportunities to advance in the field. Consequently, technologists may earn more than technicians. Technicians could choose to advance to technologist roles by completing two additional years of school beyond their associate degree and being granted a bachelor’s.
Pay by metro areas in Ohio
Your earning level may depend upon where you live within a state. For example, cities tend to pay better than rural or less populated areas. If your city is an industry hub such as Columbus or Cleveland, pay may be more competitive. That said, here’s what the BLS reported as highest paying cities in the U.S.
Not surprisingly, California metro areas dominate the list. However the BLS said that the north-northeastern Ohio nonmetropolitan area—an area that includes Cleveland and Akron—ranked number five in the U.S. for the highest employment of veterinary technicians and technologists.
Salary growth and job outlook
While Ohio has its unique advantages, it’s important to compare it to other states based on individual preferences and career goals. States like California, Texas and Florida may have strong job markets for vet techs, often with higher salaries, but these states also have considerably higher costs of living. However, the BLS predicted a strong market for vet techs nationally, with a much faster than average job growth rate of 9.1%.
Factors affecting vet tech salaries in Ohio
Several unique factors can influence what you can earn as a veterinary technician in Ohio besides education attained and any professional certification you may hold. Some of these factors include:
- Location:
- Salaries can vary significantly between urban and rural areas of Ohio. Cities like Columbus, Cleveland and Cincinnati may offer higher pay due to higher living costs and demand, compared to rural areas where salaries might be lower.
- Employer:
- Working for different types of employers, such as private clinics, universities or zoos, can impact pay scales. For instance, academic institutions or specialized facilities like zoos may offer competitive salaries compared to private clinics.
- Demand and industry trends:
- Areas with higher demand for vet tech services, such as regions with growing pet populations or agricultural sectors reliant on livestock care, may offer higher pay to attract skilled professionals.
- Economic health:
- Overall economic conditions in Ohio, including job market trends and the financial health of veterinary practices and institutions, can influence salary levels for vet techs.
- Benefits and perks beyond pay:
- Beyond base pay, benefits like healthcare coverage, retirement plans and professional development opportunities can vary among employers and impact overall compensation packages.
How do I know if my pay is fair as a vet tech in Ohio?
To determine if your pay as a vet tech in Ohio is fair, consider these steps:
- Research salaries: Look up industry reports, job postings and salary surveys specific to Ohio. Websites like Glassdoor, Indeed, the BLS and professional associations such as the Ohio Veterinary Medical Association (OVMA) may provide salary information for vet techs in your area.
- Compare with similar roles and workplaces: Compare your pay with vet tech positions in similar settings (e.g., clinics, hospitals, zoos) and locations within Ohio. Consider factors like experience, certifications and responsibilities to gauge the fairness of your compensation.
- Factor in benefits: Consider not just the base salary but also benefits such as healthcare, retirement plans, vacation time and opportunities for professional development. These can significantly impact the overall value of your compensation package.
- Discuss with colleagues: Talking with colleagues in similar roles may provide insights into what others are earning and how it compares to your own compensation.
- Seek feedback: If you believe your pay isn’t fair, seek feedback from trusted mentors, HR professionals or even professional associations. They can offer advice on negotiating salary or understanding industry standards.
If you determine that your pay isn’t fair compared to industry standards or your peers:
- Document your case: Gather data supporting your position, such as salary surveys, job postings or performance reviews demonstrating your value to the organization.
- Schedule a meeting: Arrange a meeting with your supervisor or HR department to discuss your concerns professionally. Present your research and explain why you believe your compensation should be reviewed.
- Negotiate wisely: Be prepared to negotiate. Focus on how your skills and contributions justify a higher salary rather than comparing yourself to others directly. Highlight any additional responsibilities or certifications you’ve acquired since starting your current role.
- Consider other options: If your employer isn’t responsive to your concerns and you feel undervalued, consider exploring opportunities with other employers who offer more competitive compensation and benefits.
Education and training in OH
To become a vet tech in Ohio, you’ll need to complete specific education and training requirements. Here’s a detailed guide:
Education
Earn your associate degree in veterinary technology:
- Accreditation: Enroll in a veterinary technology program accredited by the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA). Ohio has several accredited programs, such as those at Columbus State Community College, Cuyahoga Community College and Stautzenberger College.
- Curriculum: The program typically takes about two years to complete and includes coursework in animal anatomy and physiology, pharmacology, anesthesia, surgical nursing, radiology and laboratory procedures. Clinical experience is also an essential component.
Certification and licensing
Pass the Veterinary Technician National Exam (VTNE):
- Taking the exam: After completing an accredited veterinary technology program, you must pass the VTNE, administered by the American Association of Veterinary State Boards (AAVSB).
- Exam content: The VTNE covers nine primary domains, including pharmacology, surgical preparation, animal nursing and laboratory procedures.
Apply for state licensure with the Ohio Veterinary Medical Licensing Board (OVMLB):
- Application: Once you pass the VTNE, you must apply for licensure with the OVMLB. The application process includes submitting your VTNE scores, proof of education and a background check.
- Continuing education: To maintain your license, Ohio requires continuing education credits. Ohio’s requirements include 10 hours of continuing education per renewal. Six hours must be approved medical and directly related to the practice of veterinary medicine. No more than four hours may be in practice management/professional development.
Clinical experience:
- Internships and externships: Most veterinary technology programs include internships or externships in veterinary clinics, hospitals or research facilities. This hands-on experience is crucial for developing practical skills.
- On-the-job training: After graduation, gaining additional experience by working in various veterinary settings can help you specialize and advance your career.
Advanced certifications:
- Specialties: If you wish, you can pursue further certifications in areas such as anesthesia, emergency and critical care, dentistry and zoological medicine. These are offered by organizations like the National Association of Veterinary Technicians in America (NAVTA).
Cost of living considerations in Ohio
The cost of living in Ohio is relatively affordable compared to the national average. Housing costs are notably lower, with median home prices and rental rates more affordable than in many other states. Utilities, transportation and healthcare also tend to be less expensive. While urban areas like Lima are just slightly higher than the national average, it is still far more budget-friendly compared to major metropolitan areas in other states such as California and New York. Overall, Ohio’s lower cost of living makes it an attractive option for individuals looking to stretch their income further while enjoying a reasonable quality of life.
RentCafe says the cost of living in Ohio is 8% lower than the national average, with housing at 22% lower than the national average. Here are costs of living for some of the cities in Ohio that the BLS lists as paying vet techs the highest salaries:
| Ohio city | Cost of living (versus the national average) |
|---|---|
| Lima | 1% higher |
| Cincinnati | 3% lower |
| Akron | 10% lower |
| Cleveland | 8% lower |
| Columbus | 8% lower |
| Dayton | 5% lower |
Ohio professional groups for vet techs
Whether you’re just beginning your veterinary school journey or are ready to start working as a vet tech in Ohio, membership with the following associations offers valuable resources and support, helping you to find the continuing education to advance your career and stay informed about the latest developments in the field.
Ohio Association of Veterinary Technicians (OhioRVT): The OhioRVT is a professional organization dedicated to “promoting veterinary technicians and quality animal healthcare through education, legislation and high ethical standards.”
Ohio Veterinary Medical Association (OVMA): The OVMA represents veterinary professionals in Ohio, and is dedicated to fostering the core principles of stewardship, compassion, community and lifelong learning in veterinary medicine.
Find comprehensive vet tech salary guides for your state: California | Colorado | Florida | Georgia | Indiana | Massachusetts | Michigan | New Jersey | New York | Ohio | Texas
This vet tech salary guide for Ohio strives to provide you with a comprehensive understanding of the salary landscape and key information regarding the profession. Use this guide as a starting point to make informed decisions about your career path, negotiating salaries and for setting realistic expectations for your educational and professional future.