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Entry Level Veterinary Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Animal Control Officer I/II

Rialto, CA ยท On-site

$25.03 - $33.54/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

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 ...

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 ...

Overnight Pet Hotel Attendant

San Francisco, CA ยท On-site

$20.17 - $22.17/hr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

Wag Hotels is the place to be if you are a pet lover looking for an entry-level position to help ... Experience working or volunteering in either kennel, shelter, rescue, or veterinary facility is ...

Overnight Pet Hotel Attendant

San Francisco, CA ยท On-site

$20.17 - $22.17/hr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

Wag Hotels is the place to be if you are a pet lover looking for an entry-level position to help ... Experience working or volunteering in either kennel, shelter, rescue, or veterinary facility is ...

Showing results 21-40

Entry Level Veterinary information

See California salary details

$11

$21

$31

How much do entry level veterinary jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level veterinary in California is $21.42, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.55 and $24.42 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level veterinary professionals, and how can they overcome them?

Entry-level veterinary professionals often encounter challenges such as adapting to a fast-paced clinic environment, managing emotionally charged situations with pet owners, and balancing a variety of tasks simultaneously. To overcome these obstacles, it is helpful to seek mentorship from experienced colleagues, communicate openly with the veterinary team, and prioritize time management. Building strong client relationships and developing resilience will also make the transition into practice smoother and more rewarding.

How to start a career in entry level veterinary?

To start a career as an entry-level veterinary professional, obtain a high school diploma or equivalent, gain experience through volunteering or internships at animal shelters or clinics, and pursue relevant certifications or an associate degree in veterinary technology if required. Developing skills in animal handling, communication, and basic medical procedures is essential for entry-level roles in veterinary settings.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level veterinary technician?

To thrive as an Entry Level Veterinary Technician, you need a solid understanding of animal care, basic medical procedures, and often a veterinary technology degree or relevant certification. Familiarity with veterinary practice management software, laboratory equipment, and animal restraint techniques is typically required. Compassion, attention to detail, and strong communication skills are essential soft skills for assisting veterinarians and supporting pet owners. These abilities ensure effective animal care, enhance team efficiency, and foster positive client relationships in a clinical environment.

What are entry level veterinary jobs?

Entry level veterinary jobs are positions within animal healthcare that typically require minimal prior experience and are suitable for recent graduates or those new to the veterinary field. These roles often include veterinary assistants, veterinary technicians, and animal care attendants, where duties may involve assisting veterinarians during examinations, performing basic animal care, and maintaining clinical records. Entry level positions provide valuable hands-on experience, training, and exposure to a variety of animal care tasks, serving as a foundation for career growth in veterinary medicine.

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

AspectEntry Level VeterinaryVeterinary Technician
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; on-the-job trainingAssociate degree in veterinary technology; certification often required
Work EnvironmentVeterinary clinics, animal hospitals, sheltersSame as Entry Level Veterinary, often with more technical responsibilities
Employer & Industry UsageEntry-level role for those starting in veterinary fieldLicensed or certified role with more advanced duties
Common Search & Comparison IntentYesYes

Entry Level Veterinary positions are typically for individuals starting in the veterinary field with minimal formal training, focusing on basic animal care and support tasks. Veterinary Technicians, however, require specialized education and certification, performing more technical procedures. Both roles work in similar environments, but Veterinary Technicians have a higher level of responsibility and technical skill.

Can you work at an entry level veterinary with no experience?

Entry-level veterinary assistant positions often do not require prior experience, as on-the-job training is typically provided. However, having basic knowledge of animal care, good communication skills, and a high school diploma or equivalent can improve your chances of securing such roles.

What are the most commonly searched types of Veterinary jobs in California?

The most popular types of Veterinary jobs in California are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Veterinary jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Veterinary jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Entry Level Veterinary jobs?

Cities in California with the most Entry Level Veterinary job openings:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Veterinary job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,553 per year, or $21.4 per hour.

Animal Resource Officer I Temporary Hiring Pool FY27

City of Fresno, CA

Fresno, CA โ€ข On-site

$24.93 - $29.86/hr

Temporary

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 17 days ago


Job description

Salary: $24.93 - $29.86 Hourly
Location : Fresno
Job Type: Temporary
Job Number: 26BK00032
Department: Animal Center Department
Division: Community Engagement Division
Opening Date: 07/28/2026
Closing Date: 6/30/2027 11:59 PM Pacific
Bargaining Unit: 03A
Come join the City of Fresno in Building a Better Fresno!
Want to see what it's like to work here? Explore our video series to discover the real stories, passion, and purpose of the team behind Fresno's success.
Position Description
SALARY: $24.92 approximately per hour based on $4,321 monthly
FILING DEADLINE: Wednesday, June 30, 2027
POSITION DESCRIPTION
Looking for an opportunity to create a positive change in animal welfare and enforcement in your city? Look no further! The Fresno Animal Center department, centrally situated in the vibrant City of Fresno, is offering exciting opportunities in the animal care field. Join us in making a profound difference in the lives of both people and animals and our community! Become a part of achieving our mission to improve the lives of our Citizens and their Animals.
Animal Resource Officer I is an entry level classification in the Animal Resource Officer classification series which incumbents are under close supervision.
Incumbents must demonstrate initiative, tact, and sensitivity in the humane treatment and handling of animals and must be able to communicate effectively with diverse groups within the city.
Duties may include but are not limited to the following:
-Engaging with the community by providing information and resources to residents regarding pet care, licensing, spay and neuter programs and responsible pet ownership.
-Explaining and enforcing laws and ordinances including issuing warnings and citations related to the treatment, control, and licensing of animals.
-Serve as an educator, advocate and first responder in situations involving animals.
-Promote positive human-animal relationships.
-Operation of two-way radio, cellular devices, and other equipment to maintain activity logs and respond to calls from dispatch or request calls for assistance to effectively conduct animal control services in designated City areas.
-Prepare reports and work with corresponding agencies.
-May administer first aid and emergency treatment for animals
-Responds to complaints regarding stray, vicious, injured or deceased animals and animal bites
-Perform related work as required.
Incumbents will be exposed to a working environment with animals (primarily dogs and cats) which may lead to possible exposure of unpleasant odors and noises, allergens, interactions with animals, and possible exposure to zoonotic diseases; and will be required to handle and restrain animals humanely and safely using approved protocols and practices.
Incumbents will be required to work nights, evenings, weekends, and holidays and respond to after-hour emergencies as needed.
Minimum Qualifications
Education: High School diploma or GED equivalent at time of appointment.
Experience: One (1) year of experience in the care and handling of various domestic, agricultural, or wild animals in an animal-centric setting. Private pet ownership is not qualifying experience.
OR
One (1) year of work experience involving substantial public contact.
Special Requirements:
  • Possession and continued maintenance of a valid California Driver's License is required during the entire term of employment.
  • A valid Veterinary Assistant Controlled Substance Permit (VACSP), issued by the Veterinary Medical Board of the State of California, may be required upon direction of the appointing authority.
  • Within one (1) year of appointment, incumbents will be required to complete Euthanasia Training consistent with California Code of Regulations, Title 16, Section 2039.
  • Within one (1) year of appointment, incumbents will be required to obtain and maintain a State of California Penal Code Section 832 Laws of Arrest certification.

Supplemental Information
***PLEASE NOTE*** The salary range posted in this bulletin represents the salary range for a FULL-TIME position. Compensation will be pro-rated based on the number of hours worked.
We are looking for reliable individuals with strong communication skills, a commitment to customer service, and a focus on safety. If you are dependable, people-oriented, and interested in representing your community in a temporary capacity, we would be excited to have you join our team.
Incumbents may be assigned to work any shift as directed, including days, nights, evenings, weekends, and holidays.
Temporary employees are assigned no more than 32 hours a week. The salary listed is for full-time positions and will be prorated if hired. Temporary employees do not participate in the City's pension system and are not eligible for City-sponsored benefits. The assignment will not exceed no more than 2080 hours.
SELECTION PROCESS
Applicants who meet the minimum qualifications may be referred to the hiring department for further consideration. No competitive examination process will be conducted for this temporary position.
How To Apply
For information on how to complete an online application, please visit the tab. For NEOGOV Application Assistance, please call 1-855-524-5627 or email support@governmentjobs.com. ONLY ONLINE APPLICATIONS AND MATERIALS ARE ACCEPTED and must be submitted by midnight on the closing deadline, or they will not be accepted for any reason.
Required licenses, certifications, and education must be verified with supporting documents. Foreign education must be evaluated by a credential evaluation service recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. Please ensure all relevant attachments are uploaded with your application.
For the work experience section, provide detailed descriptions of job duties for each position related to the specific role you are applying for. Resumes are not a substitute for completing this section and will only be reviewed as supplemental information, not for determining minimum qualifications.
For other City of Fresno employment opportunities, please view our If you have recruitment questions, please call our office at 559-621-6950. Our office is located at 2600 Fresno Street, Room 1030, Fresno, CA 93721.
Equal Opportunity Employer
The City of Fresno is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Should you need a special accommodation due to a qualifying disability, please contact the Personnel Service Department at (559) 621-6950 in advance of the examination.
Unit 3
Non- Supervisory White Collar
The Fresno City Employees Association, Inc. (FCEA)
BENEFIT
DESCRIPTION
HEALTH INSURANCE
The City contributes toward monthly premiums for PPO medical, dental and vision for employee and dependents.
FLEXIBLE SPENDING ACCOUNT
IRS 125 Plan for health and dependent care expenses.
DEFERRED COMPENSATION
Voluntary 457 plan with Fidelity Investments to increase your retirement savings.
VACATION LEAVE
Accrue 8 - 14.66 hours per month based on years of service
SICK LEAVE
8 hours per month, available after 90 days.
SUPPLEMENTAL SICK
40 hours per fiscal year. 80 hours lifetime maximum
HOLIDAYS
Ten (10) City-observed annual holidays plus birthday and two (2) personal days.
SHORT TERM DISABILITY
Provided through California SDI program
BILINGUAL PREMIUM
PAY: $100 per month
HEALTH REIMBURSEMENT ARRANGEMENT (HRA)
Eligible retirees can use the remaining Sick Leave balance, in excess of 240 hours, at 80% of hourly rate and other qualified leave balances, tax free, to reimburse health insurance premiums and other qualified medical expenses.
RETIREMENT -City of Fresno Retirement Systems, one of the best funded public systems in the state. Reciprocity with other public California systems. Vested in Retirement benefits after 5 years of service. City employees do not participate in Social Security.
DROP (Deferred Retirement Option Program):an optional, voluntary program that allows an employee to deposit retirement benefits in a special savings account within the Retirement System while continuing to work for the City of Fresno for up to 10 years. Participation minimum is age 50 and vested. Benefits include ownership of accumulated funds, compound interest earnings, and alternative distribution options.
Additional information regarding the City of Fresno benefits is available at
Please note that the benefits package described above is specific to permanent full-time employees. Employees engaged on a part-time, temporary, limited, or other basis may have different entitlements.
01
Do you have a High School diploma or GED?
  • Yes
  • No

02
Do you have at least one (1) year of experience in the care and handling of domestic, agricultural, or wild animals in a professional or animal-centric setting?
  • YES
  • NO

03
Does your experience exclude private pet ownership
  • YES
  • NO

04
Do you have at least one (1) year of work experience that involved a substantial amount of public contact?
  • YES
  • NO

Required Question