The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 19% job growth for veterinary technologists and technicians between 2022 and 2032. This is more than four times the average growth rate for all occupations (4%). Approximately 13,600 new jobs are expected each year over this period.
The American Pet Products Association estimates 70% of US households own a pet. Post-pandemic companion animal ownership surged and has not retreated, adding sustained demand for veterinary services.
Pets are increasingly receiving human-level care: MRI, chemotherapy, dialysis, cardiac surgery. This complexity requires more skilled technicians per veterinarian and drives demand for specialists.
A significant portion of the current vet tech workforce is approaching retirement age, creating replacement demand on top of new position growth throughout the 2020s and 2030s.
Veterinary deserts (rural areas with no nearby vet) are prompting states to expand veterinary technician practice authority, allowing techs to provide more services independently.
The biotech and pharmaceutical sectors use veterinary technicians extensively for animal research. Expansion of clinical trials and vaccine development is a growing source of employment outside clinical practice.
Large animal and food safety inspection roles are growing as food security concerns increase. USDA and state agriculture departments employ vet techs in disease surveillance and meat inspection roles.
| State | Projected Annual Openings | Growth Rate |
|---|---|---|
| California | 3,840 | 22% |
| Texas | 2,910 | 21% |
| Florida | 2,680 | 20% |
| New York | 1,920 | 17% |
| Washington | 1,240 | 24% |
| Colorado | 980 | 23% |
Pursue a VTS credential in anesthesia, surgery, emergency care, or another specialty for a 15-28% pay premium and access to referral hospital positions.
Experienced vet techs often move into management roles overseeing clinic operations, staffing, and client services. Salaries range from $50,000 to $80,000+
Teach at accredited veterinary technology programs. Requires a bachelor's degree and clinical experience. Academic roles offer stable hours and benefits.
Pharmaceutical companies, veterinary equipment distributors, and diagnostic labs actively recruit experienced vet techs for technical sales and support roles with higher pay.
A growing number of vet techs pursue the Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) degree. Several schools offer bridge programs for credentialed technicians.
Veterinary technology is one of the stronger growth occupations in allied health. The combination of high projected growth, shortage conditions in many markets, and clear pathways to specialty credentials means that motivated vet techs have genuine salary advancement potential. States with expanded technician practice authority are particularly attractive for career development.
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook. Projections cover 2022-2032. Updated 27 March 2026.