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Entry Level Veterinary Assistant Jobs in Perris, CA

Animal Control Officer I/II

Rialto, CA · On-site

$26.82 - $35.95/hr

Since this is typically an entry level class, employees may have only limited or no directly ... veterinarian to treat injured animals as appropriate. Assist in preparing laboratory specimens ...

Animal Control Officer I/II

Rialto, CA · On-site

$25.03 - $33.54/hr

Since this is typically an entry level class, employees may have only limited or no directly ... veterinarian to treat injured animals as appropriate. * Assist in preparing laboratory specimens ...

Entry Level Veterinary Assistant information

See Perris, CA salary details

$10

$17

$24

How much do entry level veterinary assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level veterinary assistant in Perris, CA is $17.58, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.43 and $19.38 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an entry level veterinary assistant?

Entry level veterinary assistants are individuals who support veterinarians and veterinary technicians in animal clinics or hospitals, typically with little to no prior experience in the field. Their duties often include feeding and bathing animals, cleaning kennels, assisting with restraint during exams, sanitizing equipment, and performing basic administrative tasks. This role is a great starting point for those interested in animal care and provides valuable hands-on experience. Entry level veterinary assistants usually work under direct supervision and may receive on-the-job training. The position can also serve as a stepping stone for further education and advancement in veterinary medicine.

What does an entry level veterinary assistant do?

Entry-level temporary positions include positions like data entry clerk and administrative assistant. You usually find these jobs through a temporary contract based on current company staffing needs. These jobs frequently offer some training and do not require any previous industry experience to get the assignment. As a temp, you may help provide different types of support, such as working phones, making orders, or adding information to databases. The duration of each contract can vary, but they can run anywhere from several weeks to several months. Any positions that require more than a year of work are usually full jobs instead of temporary contracts.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level veterinary assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Veterinary Assistant, you need a basic understanding of animal care, handling procedures, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with veterinary management software, medical equipment, and proper sanitation practices is often required. Compassion, attention to detail, and strong communication skills help you work effectively with both animals and their owners. These skills and qualities are crucial for maintaining animal well-being, ensuring smooth clinic operations, and providing supportive care to clients and veterinary teams.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level veterinary assistants and how can they prepare for them?

Entry level veterinary assistants often face challenges such as handling stressed or frightened animals, managing fast-paced workloads, and communicating effectively with both veterinary staff and pet owners. It's important to develop strong observation and multitasking skills, as well as resilience when dealing with emotional situations like euthanasia or critical care cases. Seeking mentorship from experienced team members and staying organized can help new assistants adapt more quickly and contribute positively to the clinic environment.

What is the difference between Entry Level Veterinary Assistant vs Veterinary Technician?

AspectEntry Level Veterinary AssistantVeterinary Technician
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; on-the-job trainingAssociate degree in veterinary technology; certification often required
Work EnvironmentAnimal clinics, shelters, pet hospitals; assisting with basic careMore advanced clinical tasks; assisting veterinarians with diagnostics and procedures
Employer & Industry UsageCommonly employed in veterinary clinics and animal care facilitiesTypically found in veterinary hospitals and clinics with more complex services
Search & Comparison IntentOften compared for entry-level roles in veterinary supportCompared for more advanced veterinary support roles

Entry Level Veterinary Assistants perform basic animal care and support tasks with minimal formal education, while Veterinary Technicians have specialized training and certification, enabling them to handle more complex clinical duties. Both roles are essential in veterinary settings, but Veterinary Technicians typically require more education and perform more advanced procedures.

Can I be an entry level veterinary assistant with no experience?

Entry level veterinary assistants typically do not need prior experience, as on-the-job training is common. Basic skills such as animal handling, communication, and a willingness to learn are often sufficient to start in this role, though some employers may prefer candidates with related coursework or certifications like veterinary assistant programs.

How to get started as an entry level veterinary assistant?

To start as an entry-level veterinary assistant, obtain a high school diploma or equivalent and consider completing a veterinary assistant training program or certification. Gaining experience through volunteering or internships at veterinary clinics can also improve job prospects; strong communication and basic animal care skills are essential. Many positions require familiarity with medical terminology, animal handling, and basic cleaning procedures.

Is it hard to get a job as an entry level veterinary assistant?

Entry level veterinary assistant positions are generally accessible to individuals with a high school diploma or equivalent and a willingness to learn. While competition can vary by location, gaining relevant skills such as animal handling and basic medical knowledge can improve chances of employment; some employers also value certification or on-the-job training.

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Veterinary Assistant jobs in Perris, CA look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Veterinary Assistant jobs in Perris, CA are:

What cities near Perris, CA are hiring for Entry Level Veterinary Assistant jobs?

Cities near Perris, CA with the most Entry Level Veterinary Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Veterinary Assistant job openings in Perris, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 25% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,562 per year, or $17.6 per hour.

Animal Control Officer I/II

City of Rialto

Rialto, CA • On-site

$26.82 - $35.95/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 14 days ago


Job description

Classification Definition DEFINITION To perform routine duties in support of the City's animal control services and operations; to provide assistance in enforcing City, County and State laws governing the care and keeping of animals in the City; to patrol assigned areas; to capture, impound, care for and euthanize animals as appropriate; and to perform a variety of duties relative to assigned areas of responsibility. DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS This is the entry level class in the Animal Control Officer series. This class is distinguished from the Animal Control Officer II by the performance of the more routine tasks and duties assigned to positions within the series.

Since this is typically an entry level class, employees may have only limited or no directly related work experience. HOURLY WAGE INFORMATION: Animal Control Officer I: Hourly: $24.30 - $32.56 Animal Control Officer II: Hourly: $26.82 - $35.95 *Listed amounts indicate the first and last steps of the range for each position. Essential Duties and Responsiblities ESSENTIAL AND MARGINAL FUNCTION STATEMENTS--Essential and other important responsibilities and duties may include, but are not limited to, the following: Essential Functions: Patrol City streets and roads using a City owned vehicle; search for stray dogs and domestic animals

Pick up and dispose of deceased animals in accordance with established policies and procedures. Investigate reports or complaints of nuisance, stray, uncontrolled, dangerous, wild or diseased animals within the city and take appropriate action; investigate reports of animal cruelty or neglect; investigate animal bites; arrange for animal identification and quarantine as needed. Perform general office duties; receive and direct telephone calls; provide information and explain procedures; send notices; file rabies certificates and other documents.

Prepare and maintain a variety of files, records and reports; ensure all records comply with established guidelines. Receive lost and found animal reports; assist visitors in locating missing pets. Assist in enforcing City animal control laws; explain ordinance relating to keeping and caring for animals; issue citations for violations of the animal control ordinance.

Coordinate the services and operations of the City's rabies vaccination clinics; maintain related records. Impound, quarantine and euthanize animals as appropriate; provide assistance in determining whether injured animals should be treated or euthanized; contact a veterinarian to treat injured animals as appropriate. Assist in preparing laboratory specimens; submit to appropriate public agencies.

Operate variety of tools, equipment and devices including humane traps, mobile radios and related animal control tools and equipment. Marginal Functions: Maintain vehicle and equipment in proper working condition; clean and repair vehicle and equipment as necessary. Perform related duties and responsibilities as required.

Minimum Qualifications Animal Control Officer I: Experience and Training Guidelines: Any combination of experience and training that would likely provide the required knowledge and abilities is qualifying. A typical way to obtain the knowledge and abilities would be: Experience: One year of experience in the care and handling of animals. Training: Equivalent to the completion of the twelfth grade.

License or Certificate: Possession of, or ability to obtain, an appropriate, valid driver's license. Animal Control Officer II: Experience and Training Guidelines: Minimum requirements as a condition of hire: Experience: Two years of responsible experience in animal control enforcement. Training: Equivalent to the completion of the twelfth grade.

License or Certificate Possession of, or ability to obtain, an appropriate, valid driver's license. Supplemental Information Application Procedure: A City application form and supplemental questionnaire (if applicable) MUST be submitted and received by the closing date. Please apply online at www.yourrialto.com

All other employment inquiries can be directed to The City of Rialto, Human Resources Department. 246 S. Willow, Rialto, CA 92376.

Telephone: (909) 820-2540. Selection Process: Candidates must clearly demonstrate through their application material that they meet the employment standards outlined above. All properly completed applications will be reviewed, and the most appropriately qualified individuals will be invited to continue in the selection process.

Examinations for the positions may consist of any combination of written, performance, and oral exams to evaluate the applicant's skills, training, and experience for the position. Successful applicants will be placed on an eligibility list. The City may also merge lists.

The selected candidate(s) must successfully complete pre-employment clearances which may include a physical, drug screen, and fingerprinting. Veterans Preference Credit Eligibility: Veterans of the armed forces, who have been discharged or released from active duty under conditions other than dishonorable (Government Code: 18540.4), shall receive an additional five (5) points to their final examination score for ranking purposes only. This preference will apply only to the first appointment to any regular full-time City appointment

A copy of your valid DD214 must be submitted on or before the final filing date in order to be eligible for Veterans Preference Credit. For more information, please see the City's Veteran's Preference Policy. E-Verify: The City of Rialto is an E-Verify employer.

E-Verify is an internet based system operated by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) in partnership with the Social Security Administration (SSA) that allows participating employers to electronically verify the employment eligibility of newly hired employees in the United States.