Alaska is a unique state for veterinarian needs.
In addition to dogs, cats, and rabbits, the scope of care can include horses and undomesticated animals.
For this reason, many regulations are attached to a veterinarian’s clinic that protects the animals in need of care and any responsible parties.
The wide array of animals provides a stimulating atmosphere for someone entering the profession of vet office manager.
Table of Contents
- 1 Vet Office Manager Duties in Alaska
- 2 Licensing Requirements to Become a Vet Office Manager in Alaska
- 3 Vet Office Manager Programs
- 4 Salary
- 5 Frequently Asked Questions
- 5.1 Is it possible to become a vet office manager with only a high school diploma or a GED?
- 5.2 I have been around animals all of my life. Does this count for experience in a vet's office?
- 5.3 Are there any schools for becoming a Vet Office Manager in Alaska?
- 5.4 Is there a need for vet office managers in Alaska?
Vet Office Manager Duties in Alaska
Due to the extensive rural demographics, finding openings for vet office managers in most areas of the state isn’t easy.
Receptionist, vet tech, or practice manager positions are more common in job searches.
Other qualifications, such as business training, are often required.
The duties of a vet office manager routinely require the following:
- Scheduling appointments
- Billing clients
- Ordering office supplies
- Supervising employees
- Knowledge of Excel and Vet Software
A practice manager is similar to a vet office manager.
However, more schooling and training are required, including accounting and hiring new staff.
Knowledge of veterinary medicine and animal care is also a plus.
Licensing Requirements to Become a Vet Office Manager in Alaska
There is no licensing requirement to be a vet office manager in Alaska.
In Alaska, you may see classifieds for a head vet receptionist.
This position can be very similar to a vet office manager.
However, a practice manager will likely have a Certified Veterinary Practice Manager (CVPM) designation, which gives credit to the highest level of professional office manager.
Classification as a vet technician or a vet assistant is a license-required position.
Vet Office Manager Programs
Online business schools provide the basic training for becoming an office manager.
A vet office manager has little involvement with animals, but keeping the business away from busy veterinarians is crucial to the workflow.
Because the administration role is minimal, competition can be challenging.
Learning as much as possible will help with your resume and help you secure the best job available.
Here are some options for increasing your knowledge.
Northwest Technical Institute
Northwest Technical Institute offers a complete training program on office management duties and includes courses relevant to the veterinary field.
A sampling of their 18-month Veterinarian Office Manager courses include:
- Essential bookkeeping duties and accounting principles
- How to handle medical records
- Keeping an inventory of office products
- Learning Excel and software related to the field
- Training to prepare for QuickBooks Certified User exam
- Supervise employees to ensure quality work
In addition, classes include anatomy and physiology of organ systems.
Simple procedures such as taking vital signs and administering vaccines and medications are also covered.
This knowledge can benefit those wishing to proceed to a Practice Manager position.
The cost is $3995, and financial assistance is available.
San Juan College
San Juan College is another excellent online school for students considering becoming vet office managers.
This school offers advanced classes for practice managers and higher positions.
You can earn a Veterinary Practice Management Certificate (CVPM) or rise to the Veterinary Hospital Managers Association (VHMA).
It is common for vet employees to want to further their knowledge and education once they have experienced the veterinary world.
| School Name | Address |
|---|---|
| Northwest Technical Institute | 709 S Old Missouri Rd, Springdale, AR 72764, United States |
| San Juan College | 4601 College Blvd, Farmington, NM 87402, United States |
Salary
As of June 27, 2024, the average Veterinary Office Manager salary in the United States was $86,383, but the salary range typically falls between $75,200 and $99,250.
In Anchorage, AK, salaries for a veterinary office manager average between $82,700 and $109,370.
Salary ranges can vary widely depending on many important factors, including education, certifications, additional skills, and the years you have spent in your profession.
Social skills, leadership skills, and technical abilities are also essential factors.
| Location | Avg. Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| Anchorage | $95,194 |
| Juneau | $95,194 |
| Ketchikan | $93,898 |
| Palmer | $93,898 |
| Sitka | $93,898 |
| Fairbanks | $95,885 |
| Wasilla | $93,898 |
| Deering | $94,589 |
| Kobuk | $94,589 |
| Nikolski | $93,898 |
Regional Salary in Alaska
| Region | Employed | Avg. Annual Salary | Avg. Hourly Pay | Top 10% Annual Salary | Bottom 10% Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Anchorage, AK | 210 | $45,240 | $21.75 | $57,410 | $30,870 |
* Employment conditions in your area may vary.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it possible to become a vet office manager with only a high school diploma or a GED?
Veterinarian clinics look for experience and office skills when interviewing candidates for vet office managers.
More than a high school diploma or GED is not required, but at least 1–2 years of office management experience is recommended.
I have been around animals all of my life. Does this count for experience in a vet's office?
A vet office manager is responsible for the business aspect of keeping an office running smoothly rather than handling animals.
Good knowledge of animals is secondary to knowledge of office management.
Gaining the education to become a vet technician would better suit your experience.
Are there any schools for becoming a Vet Office Manager in Alaska?
There are public and private universities in Alaska that offer business management courses.
Some of these include Charter College, Alaska Pacific University, and University Alaska Anchorage, all located in Anchorage.
They offer four-year business degrees.
Is there a need for vet office managers in Alaska?
The need for veterinary office managers can fluctuate yearly, according to the economy.
However, statistics show that jobs in the veterinary field are projected to grow by 20% in the next ten years, faster than other industries.
How to Become a Vet Office Manager by State