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Vet Clinic Assistant Jobs in Riverside, CA (NOW HIRING)

Katella Animal Clinic is a small to medium-sized animal vet clinic located in Anaheim, CA. Katella ... Experience as a veterinary technician or assistant. * Strong animal handling skills and knowledge ...

Katella Animal Clinic is a small to medium-sized animal vet clinic located in Anaheim, CA. Katella ... Experience as a veterinary technician or assistant. * Strong animal handling skills and knowledge ...

Katella Animal Clinic is a small to medium-sized animal vet clinic located in Anaheim, CA. Katella ... Experience as a veterinary technician or assistant. * Strong animal handling skills and knowledge ...

Veterinary Assistant

Diamond Bar, CA · On-site

$16.50 - $20.75/hr

General Information Ref # 53984 Department Vet Tech / Vet Assistant / VT Campus Job Site Grand ... You'll be the backbone of the clinic, anticipating the needs of veterinarians and technicians to ...

Vet Clinic Assistant information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$10

$21

$30

How much do vet clinic assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average hourly pay for vet clinic assistant in Riverside, CA is $21.47, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.30 and $23.08 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a vet clinic assistant?

Vet clinic assistants, also known as veterinary assistants, are professionals who support veterinarians and veterinary technicians in animal clinics. They help with tasks such as handling animals, cleaning cages, preparing examination rooms, and assisting during procedures. Their role is essential for maintaining the smooth operation of the clinic and ensuring the well-being of animal patients. While they do not perform medical procedures, they play a key role in animal care and client communication.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a vet clinic assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Vet Clinic Assistant, you need basic animal care knowledge, attention to detail, and often a high school diploma or veterinary assistant certification. Familiarity with veterinary practice management software, animal restraint techniques, and sterilization equipment is typically required. Compassion, strong communication, and the ability to work well under pressure help you support both clients and veterinary staff. These skills ensure the safety and well-being of animals, smooth clinic operations, and a positive experience for pet owners.

What are some common challenges a vet clinic assistant may face during a typical workday?

Vet Clinic Assistants often encounter a fast-paced and emotionally demanding environment. Common challenges include managing multiple priorities, such as assisting veterinarians with procedures, handling anxious pets, and communicating effectively with pet owners. Additionally, maintaining cleanliness and adhering to strict safety protocols are essential. The role also requires adaptability, as emergencies can shift priorities quickly, making time management and emotional resilience valuable assets.

What is the difference between Vet Clinic Assistant vs Vet Technician?

AspectVet Clinic AssistantVet Technician
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; on-the-job trainingAssociate degree in veterinary technology; certification often required
Work EnvironmentAssist with daily clinic tasks, client communication, and animal handlingPerform medical procedures, lab work, and assist veterinarians in diagnostics and treatments
Employer & Industry UsageVeterinary clinics, animal hospitals, sheltersVeterinary clinics, animal hospitals, research facilities

While both Vet Clinic Assistants and Vet Technicians work in veterinary settings, Vet Technicians have more advanced training and perform medical procedures, whereas Assistants focus on support tasks and client interaction.

Can I be a vet clinic assistant with no experience?

Vet clinic assistants often do not need prior experience, as on-the-job training is common. Basic skills such as communication, a willingness to learn, and comfort around animals are important, and some clinics may prefer candidates with related certifications or coursework in animal care. Entry-level positions typically focus on supporting veterinary staff and handling routine tasks.

Is it hard to get a job as a veterinary assistant?

Getting a job as a veterinary assistant can vary depending on location and experience, but entry-level positions are often available with minimal formal education. Having basic animal care skills, a compassionate attitude, and sometimes certification can improve chances of employment in veterinary clinics or animal hospitals.

Where do vet clinic assistants make the most money?

Vet clinic assistants tend to earn higher wages in regions with a higher cost of living and greater demand for veterinary services, such as urban areas or states with a strong pet care industry. Salaries can also increase with experience, certifications, and working in specialty or emergency clinics.

What job categories do people searching Vet Clinic Assistant jobs in Riverside, CA look for?

The top searched job categories for Vet Clinic Assistant jobs in Riverside, CA are:

What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for Vet Clinic Assistant jobs?

Cities near Riverside, CA with the most Vet Clinic Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Vet Clinic Assistant job openings in Riverside, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,661 per year, or $21.5 per hour.

Veterinary Clinic Assistant-VIP Petcare

Tractor Supply Company

Pomona, CA • On-site

$16 - $20/hr

Full-time, Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life

Re-posted 7 days ago


Tractor Supply rating

5.8

Company rating: 5.8 out of 10

Based on 1,317 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

432nd of 737 rated retailers


Job description

Overall Job Summary

Provides convenient and affordable pet health and wellness products and veterinary services to pets and their families through retail and ecommerce channels across the country. This position will report into the VIP Petcare team. 

Essential Duties and Responsibilities (Min 5%)

   Collect payment, dispense and label medication, and review discharge paperwork with pet parents
   Safely restrain / hold pets for wellness procedures including vaccines, nail trims and microchipping
   Collect and prepare blood and fecal samples for laboratory testing
   Drive vans to and from clinics responsibly; load and unload the vans upon arrival and departure (Community Clinics)
   Make recommendations for services and products to every pet, every time, based on the pet's lifestyle and an understanding of canine and feline diseases
   Maintain a clean and sanitary work environment by disinfecting surfaces and equipment between each pet
   Ability to execute inventory processes by maintaining accurate product counts and managing expiration dates for vaccines and products
   Promote a culture of safety in your clinic and live our values while reinforcing our brand promise with pet parents, partners, and team members 
   Provide customer service to pet parents by answering questions and assisting them through the clinic process 
   Achieve goals as set by your manager including dollars per pet, pets per clinic, preferred product and microchips sold
   Scan pets for microchips 
   Prepare canine and feline vaccines 
   Establish and maintain effective relationships with pet parents and partners
   Other duties as assigned

Required Qualifications

Experience:  Must be 18 years of age or older with a valid driver's license and VIP Petcare Pass MVR Check with reliable transportation to and from work.  Previous customer service sales experience.  

Education:  High School Diploma or equivalent required

Preferred knowledge, skills or abilities

   Present professional appearance and positive conduct
   Punctuality and dependability highly valued 
   Navigate computer software (iPad, Bluetooth devices and more) 
   Strong organizational, problem-solving, and analytical skills 
   Ability to work within a team to meet team goals and objectives 
   Comfort level in approaching host location's customers to educate about our clinics 
   Ability to adapt to changing priorities

Working Conditions
  • Must be able to drive a company vehicle for long hours and in various terrain and weather conditions. Portion of workday spent in vehicle. (Mobile Vet Service - Community Clinics)
  • Some outdoor clinic work and activities may be necessary
  • Must be able to work for prolonged periods of time in the field, including 12-14-hour days
  • Must be able to work weekends, varied weekdays and times, occasional overnights
Physical Requirements
  • Sitting
  • Standing (not walking)
  • Walking
  • Kneeling/Stooping/Bending
  • Driving a vehicle
  • Lifting up to 10 pounds
  • Lifting up to 20 pounds
  • Lifting up to 50 pounds
Disclaimer

This job description represents an overview of the responsibilities for the above referenced position.  It is not intended to represent a comprehensive list of responsibilities.  A team member should perform all duties as assigned by his/ her supervisor.

Company Info

At Tractor Supply and Petsense by Tractor Supply, our Team Members are the heart of our success. Their dedication, passion, and hard work drive everything we do, and we are committed to supporting them with a comprehensive and accessible total reward package. We understand the evolving needs of our Team Members and their families, and we strive to offer meaningful, competitive, and sustainable benefits that support their well-being today and in the future.
Our benefits extend beyond medical, dental, and vision coverage, including company-paid life and disability insurance, paid parental leave, tuition reimbursement, and family planning resources such as adoption and surrogacy assistance, for all full-time Team Members and all part-time Team Members. Part time new hires gain eligibility for TSC Benefits by averaging at least 15 hours per week during their 90-day lookback period. The lookback period starts the first of the month following the date of hire. If the 15-hour requirement was met, the benefits eligibility date will be the first day of the month following 4 months of continuous service.
Please visit this link for more specific information about the benefits and leave policies applicable to the position you're applying for. #VIPPetcare
 


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