How to Become a Vet Office Manager in Nebraska

Nebraska is home to a dynamic community of devoted animal enthusiasts dedicated to the well-being of their pets.

If you share this passion and are considering a career move, becoming a veterinary office manager could be an excellent choice for you.

In this role, you will contribute to animal welfare by overseeing the administrative operations of a veterinary practice, without engaging in medical procedures or surgeries.

As a veterinary office manager, you’ll be responsible for essential administrative duties that keep the practice running smoothly.

To learn more about this rewarding career path, continue reading.

Job Description for Vet Office Managers

Veterinary office managers are employed in animal clinics, hospitals, and sometimes with rescue organizations.

Their duties are akin to those of administrative assistants or general office managers, with specific tasks depending on the workplace.

Typical responsibilities of veterinary office managers include:

• Scheduling appointments
• Billing pet owners
• Ordering supplies
• Supervising office staff

Understanding these responsibilities is crucial for both veterinary practice owners and aspiring veterinary office managers.

Candidates for this role generally need:

• At least 1 year and up to 7 years of relevant work experience
• At least a high school diploma or GED, though some positions may prefer a related degree

Becoming a Vet Office Manager in Nebraska

If you’re keen on becoming a veterinary office manager, it’s crucial to understand the necessary steps.

Begin by completing high school or obtaining a GED.

Then, consider enrolling in an associate or bachelor’s degree program, ideally in business administration or a related field.

Alternatively, you can enhance your qualifications by pursuing certification after high school.

A notable certification is offered by the Veterinary Hospital Managers Association (VHMA).

To earn this certification, you must enroll in their program and pass an exam.

While VHMA membership is not mandatory, it comes with some benefits.

The certification exam is available at various testing centers across Nebraska, with the following fees:

• $675 for VHMA members
• $825 for non-members

Vet Office Manager Training Programs in Nebraska

You should also attend a training program that will teach you how to become a vet office assistant.

Let’s see where you can train.

Western Nebraska Community College

Western Nebraska Community College offers an online certificate course in Veterinary Office Management.

The self-paced program gives you 18 months to complete 450 hours of study.

The course costs $3,995, which includes vouchers for the QuickBooks User exam, as well as Microsoft Word and Excel certification exams.

Throughout the course, you’ll master the use of these programs and learn the essential duties of a veterinary office manager, including creating and sharing data and reports, and maintaining office etiquette.

You’ll gain knowledge in accounting principles, such as analyzing reports and financial documents, and performing basic bookkeeping and accounting tasks.

The program also covers anatomy and physiology of the body and major organs, pet restraint techniques during procedures, and assistance with surgeries and dental procedures.

Additionally, you’ll learn about pet nutrition, vaccinations, and medication administration.

Upon completing the program, you’ll be equipped to prepare prescriptions and take blood samples as well.

Whatever textbooks you’ll need, will be sent to you in electronic format.

Nebraska Pre-Vet at University of Nebraska – Lincoln

This school has a program for veterinary technology that you can enroll in.

The program can help you become one of the following:

• Veterinary assistant
• Veterinary technician
• Veterinary technologist

Only the first and last options open the doors to a managerial position like vet office manager or managerial support at a higher level.

Veterinary assistants offer help to veterinarians, veterinary technicians, technologists or office managers.

For this occupation you may or may not be asked to possess an associate degree or diploma.

Veterinary technologists need a bachelor’s degree to perform their job duties.

Veterinary technicians need an associate’s degree to be able to help veterinarians, biomedical researchers, and other scientists.

Salary for Vet Office Manager in Nebraska

Once you have a clear understanding of the responsibilities of a veterinary office manager, the pathways to enter the field, and the available training programs, it’s important to look at the potential earnings for this role.

In Nebraska, veterinary office managers typically earn an average annual salary of $81,373.

However, salaries can vary based on the specific region within the state.

For a comprehensive breakdown of these salary variations, please see the table below.

Regional Salary in Nebraska

Vet Office Manager by State