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Associate Dvm Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

National Veterinary Associates

Veterinarian

Pleasanton, CA · On-site

$150K - $210K/yr

Associate DVM Focus * Practice high-quality small animal medicine in a collaborative environment * Build lasting client relationships * Work alongside an experienced, supportive team * Maintain ...

NVA

Veterinarian

Pleasanton, CA · On-site

$150K - $210K/yr

Associate DVM Focus * Practice high-quality small animal medicine in a collaborative environment * Build lasting client relationships * Work alongside an experienced, supportive team * Maintain ...

Village Veterinary Clinic

Veterinarian

Lompoc, CA · On-site

$130K - $150K/yr

Join Our Team as an Associate DVM in Lompoc, CA! We are excited to welcome an Associate DVM to our dedicated team! We are looking for a candidate with over 5 years of experience, showcasing strong ...

FenixHire

Associate Veterinarian (DVM) Chico, CA

Chico, CA · On-site

$100K - $200K/yr

Associate Veterinarian (DVM) - Chico, CA A veterinary hospital is seeking an Associate Veterinarian (DVM) to join its established practice. This is a great opportunity for both new graduates and ...

FenixHire

Associate Veterinarian (DVM) Ceres, CA

Ceres, CA · On-site

$100K - $200K/yr

Associate Veterinarian (DVM) - Ceres, CA A veterinary hospital is seeking an Associate Veterinarian (DVM) to join its established practice. This is a great opportunity for both new graduates and ...

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All JobsAssociate Dvm JobsAssociate Dvm Jobs in California

Associate Dvm information

See California salary details

$22.8K

$131.2K

$305K

How much do associate dvm jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 18, 2026, the average yearly pay for associate dvm in California is $131,206.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $93,400.00 and $151,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Associate Dvm vs Veterinary Technician?

AspectAssociate DvmVeterinary Technician
CredentialsDoctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) licenseLicensed Veterinary Technician (LVT) or Certified Veterinary Technician (CVT)
Work EnvironmentVeterinary clinics, hospitals, specialty practicesAssist veterinarians in clinical tasks, patient care, and lab work
Job ResponsibilitiesDiagnose, treat, prescribe, perform surgeriesAssist with exams, administer medications, collect samples

The main difference between an Associate Dvm and a Veterinary Technician is the level of education and scope of practice. An Associate Dvm holds a veterinary degree and license to diagnose and treat animals, while a Veterinary Technician supports veterinarians with clinical tasks. Both roles are essential in veterinary settings, but they differ in responsibilities and credentials.

How much do associate veterinarians make in the US?

Associate veterinarians in the US typically earn an average annual salary of around $100,000 to $120,000, depending on experience, location, and practice type. Salaries can vary based on factors such as certifications, hours worked, and the size of the practice.

What is a DVM associate?

A DVM associate is a licensed veterinarian who works as an employee in a veterinary practice, providing medical care to animals under the supervision of a practice owner or senior veterinarian. They typically perform examinations, diagnose illnesses, and administer treatments, often working full-time and requiring a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree. Certification and licensing are necessary to practice as a DVM associate.

What does a veterinary professional associate do?

A veterinary professional associate, often a veterinary technician or assistant, supports veterinarians by performing tasks such as patient care, administering medications, collecting samples, and maintaining medical records. They work in clinical environments, using tools like diagnostic equipment, and typically require certification or licensing depending on the region.

Can I be a vet assistant with no experience?

Yes, many veterinary assistant positions are entry-level and do not require prior experience. Employers often provide on-the-job training and may look for basic skills such as animal handling and communication. Certification programs can also enhance job prospects but are not always mandatory for starting as a vet assistant.
What are popular job titles related to Associate Dvm jobs in California? For Associate Dvm jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
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What cities in California are hiring for Associate Dvm jobs? Cities in California with the most Associate Dvm job openings:
Associate Dvm jobs near you
Infographic showing various Associate Dvm job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $131,206 per year, or $63.1 per hour.

Associate DVM - Sports Medicine Specialty

EquiStaff

Gilroy, CA • On-site

$100K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 17 days ago

Job description

About the Practice:
After years of maintaining a solo, global practice focusing on the highest levels of Equine Sports Medicine, this highly accomplished DVM (ISELP, cVSMT, DABVP +!)  is looking to bring on their first associate DVM in the SF Bay Area! Focused on an integrative and holistic approach to equine performance, this is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for an upcoming professional to work closely with one of the most brilliant minds of this generation of Equine Performance Medicine. The practice spans all of the major equestrian disciplines, working closely with local clinics and general practitioners to cover emergency needs and routine wellness care. 

Job Description
We are searching for an Associate DVM capable of growing and maintaining this elite practice under the guidance and leadership of the Primary. Currently, this practice operates both Nationally and Internationally, with the goal of this position being servicing clients full-time in the San Francisco Bay Area. This practice utilizes holistic modalities such as chiropractic, acupuncture, myofascial release, kinesio taping, laser therapy and more, along with Western Medicine practices to approach soundness and performance from the biggest picture possible. Certification(s) in manual therapy, acupuncture, or ISELP would be a major plus, and experience as a competitive equestrian or racetrack veterinarian will be looked on favorably. This position comes with the ability to attend National and International caliber competition with clientele (having previously attended the 2024 Olympic Games as both private and Team DVM!), and learn from one of the best in the business while growing a practice from the ground up!
We are anticipating this individual will ride along with the Primary DVM for the first year of employment while they are in the US for training and education purposes. Once appropriate (anticipating after first year) a secondary vehicle will be purchased and the Associate will be able to build additional clientele base. For the right individual, this role has the ability to grow into a Partnership after 3-5 years!

Note - We are aiming to have this position filled by Fall 2026, but could potentially begin someone sooner under the right circumstances.

Job Requirements 
- Active United States DVM Certification - Ideally with Sports Medicine Specialty 
- Minimum 2+ Years Practicing Experience*
    *Willing to consider a truly exceptional new graduate
- Able to work in the USA without Visa Sponsorship
- Reliable Transportation to/from the clinic
- Ability to work independently, but also accept guidance and education from primary DVM
- Exceptional communication skills both in-person and remote
- Willingness to be open minded and step outside the box when treating and diagnosing horses
- Committed to providing "quality over quantity" care to equine athletes of all disciplines

Compensation & Perks
-$100,000 +/- Base salary + 25% Production Bonus
- Fully Equipped Car (Practice only, must have own transportation to/from clinic)
- Work phone, laptop, tablet
- Full Benefits
- Potential for Housing in the San Francisco Bay Area once clinic purchase is finalized
- Ride-along with Primary DVM for first year (while he is in US)
- Opportunity to assist with management of National Teams at qualification shows & championships - Olympics, World Games, Selection Trials, etc
- Potential to become a Partner in the future

Education:Employment Type: FULL_TIME

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