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Surgery Rvt Jobs in Santa Ana, CA (NOW HIRING)

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Surgery Rvt information

See Santa Ana, CA salary details

$13

$39

$150

How much do surgery rvt jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for surgery rvt in Santa Ana, CA is $39.07, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.00 and $46.54 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a surgery RVT?

Surgery RVTs, or Registered Veterinary Technicians specializing in surgery, are licensed veterinary professionals who assist veterinarians during surgical procedures. They prepare the operating room, monitor anesthesia, handle surgical instruments, and care for animals before, during, and after surgery. Their specialized training ensures that surgeries are performed safely and efficiently, contributing to positive patient outcomes. Surgery RVTs also play a key role in educating pet owners about post-operative care.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a surgery RVT, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Surgery Registered Veterinary Technician (RVT), you need a solid background in animal anatomy, surgical assisting, anesthesia monitoring, and a valid RVT certification. Familiarity with veterinary surgical instruments, anesthesia machines, and patient monitoring systems is essential. Attention to detail, teamwork, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are vital soft skills that set top performers apart. These competencies ensure patient safety, efficient surgical procedures, and effective collaboration within the veterinary surgical team.

What are some common challenges faced by surgery RVTs, and how can they be addressed in a clinical setting?

Surgery Registered Veterinary Technicians (RVTs) often encounter challenges such as maintaining sterile technique during fast-paced procedures, effectively communicating with the surgical team, and managing post-operative patient care. These challenges can be addressed by adhering to strict protocols, participating in ongoing training, and fostering strong teamwork and communication with veterinarians and other staff. Staying organized and proactive in monitoring patients before, during, and after surgery also helps minimize complications and ensures high-quality care.

What is the difference between Surgery Rvt vs Veterinary Technician?

AspectSurgery RvtVeterinary Technician
CertificationsLicensed RVT, Surgery specializationLicensed RVT, general practice
Work EnvironmentOperating rooms, surgical prep areasClinics, hospitals, surgical suites
Employer & IndustryVeterinary hospitals, specialty clinicsVeterinary clinics, hospitals
Job FocusSurgical procedures, anesthesia supportPatient care, assisting surgeries

Both Surgery Rvt and Veterinary Technician roles require RVT licensure and involve working in veterinary settings. Surgery Rvt specializes in surgical procedures and anesthesia support, often working directly in operating rooms. Veterinary Technicians have broader responsibilities, including patient care and assisting in surgeries. While overlapping, Surgery Rvt focuses more on surgical support, making it a specialized subset within the veterinary technician profession.

Infographic showing various Surgery Rvt job openings in Santa Ana, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 2% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $81,259 per year, or $39.1 per hour.

Registered Veterinary Technician RVT

Compton, CA • On-site

Alameda Animal Hospital
See more jobs at Alameda Animal Hospitalexternal

$22 - $36/hr

Part-time

Retirement

Re-posted 3 days ago

Job description

Part-Time RVT — Fridays & Saturdays
Alameda Animal Hospital | Compton, CA
Friday & Saturday | 9 AM–6 PM | $20–$36/hour

Are you an RVT who actually likes doing RVT things?
We're an independently owned, community-focused veterinary hospital looking for an experienced, confident California-licensed RVT to join our small team two days a week.
This isn't a position where you'll spend your day wondering what you're supposed to do. We need someone who can jump in, think independently, and put their skills to work.
Fridays = Surgery & Dentals
  • Anesthesia induction, intubation, monitoring & recovery
  • IV catheter placement, venipuncture & blood draws
  • IV fluids & CRIs
  • Surgical & anesthetic medication calculations/setup
  • Dental procedures & dental X-rays (we have the handheld x ray device and can train)
  • Surgical nursing
  • Diagnostic radiographs
  • Patient monitoring & recovery
Saturdays = Appointments & Treatments
  • Technician appointments & treatments
  • Venipuncture & in-house lab work
  • Radiographs
  • Medication calculations & dispensing
  • Client education & discharge instructions
  • Dog & cat handling/restraint
  • Assisting the doctor with appointments and procedures
We're Looking For Someone Who:
  • Is a licensed California RVT
  • Has strong, hands-on general practice experience
  • Is confident with anesthesia and dentistry
  • Enjoys teaching and mentoring our VAs and helping them build their technical skills 
  • Can place catheters and draw blood without breaking a sweat
  • Has good clinical judgment and can work independently
  • Is comfortable with cats — including the spicy ones ️
  • Communicates well with clients and coworkers
  • Is dependable, positive, and enjoys working as part of a small team

What We Offer
$22–$36/hour, based on experience & skill
Consistent Friday/Saturday schedule
Uniforms provided
401(k)
Paid sick days
Supportive, close-knit team
Potential for additional hours in the future
If you're an experienced veterinary professional who happens to be an RVT, we want to meet you.
Send us your resume and tell us a little about your experience!