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Veterinary Assistant Jobs in Merced, CA (NOW HIRING)

Petco

Veterinary Technician

Turlock, CA · On-site

... * Assist veterinarian with appointments (routine and emergency), surgery, dentistry, and euthanasia's, taking direct supervision from the veterinarian(s) and the Hospital Office Manager or Hospital ...

Petco

Veterinary Technician

Turlock, CA

... * Assist veterinarian with appointments (routine and emergency), surgery, dentistry, and euthanasia's, taking direct supervision from the veterinarian(s) and the Hospital Office Manager or Hospital ...

Petco

Veterinary Technician

Turlock, CA · On-site

... * Assist veterinarian with appointments (routine and emergency), surgery, dentistry, and euthanasia's, taking direct supervision from the veterinarian(s) and the Hospital Office Manager or Hospital ...

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All JobsVeterinary JobsVeterinary Assistant JobsVeterinary Assistant Jobs in Merced, CA

Veterinary Assistant information

See Merced, CA salary details

$10

$18

$25

How much do veterinary assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for veterinary assistant in Merced, CA is $18.21, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.01 and $20.05 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is being a veterinary assistant worth it?

Veterinary assistants perform tasks such as animal care, cleaning, and supporting veterinarians, often working in clinics or animal hospitals. The role can be rewarding for those passionate about animals but typically offers entry-level pay and requires physical stamina and good communication skills. Career advancement may involve gaining experience or pursuing additional certifications in veterinary technology.

Can I be a veterinary assistant with no experience?

Veterinary assistant positions often do not require prior experience, as on-the-job training is common. Basic skills such as animal handling, communication, and a willingness to learn are valuable, and some employers may prefer candidates with related coursework or certifications. Entry-level roles provide opportunities to gain practical experience in a veterinary setting.

What qualifications do you need to be a veterinary assistant?

Veterinary assistants typically need a high school diploma or equivalent. While formal education is not always required, completing a veterinary assistant training program or certification can improve job prospects. Basic knowledge of animal care, good communication skills, and the ability to work in a fast-paced environment are also important.

What are some typical challenges veterinary assistants face when working in fast-paced animal clinics?

Veterinary assistants in busy clinics often juggle multiple tasks, such as restraining animals, cleaning exam rooms, assisting with procedures, and communicating with pet owners. Managing high patient volume while maintaining accuracy and compassion can be challenging, especially during emergencies or peak hours. Teamwork, adaptability, and strong organizational skills are essential to handle shifting priorities and ensure quality care for both animals and clients.

What do veterinary assistants do?

Veterinary Assistants, or vet assistants, help Veterinarians and Veterinarian Technicians in animal care hospitals, animal clinics, or other veterinary facilities. As a Veterinary Assistant, you feed, bathe, and exercise animals in your care. Veterinarian Assistants also restrain animals when the vet examines or treats them. Other job duties may include greeting pet owners when they enter the office, organizing files, and cleaning and sterilizing equipment. Some Veterinary Assistant positions require you to perform lab work, such as collecting urine samples from animals, drawing blood, and administering medication under the supervision of the primary veterinarian or technician.

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

Veterinary Assistants need a basic understanding of animal care, handling, and medical terminology, often supported by a high school diploma or veterinary assistant certification. Familiarity with animal restraint techniques, cleaning protocols, and veterinary software systems is common in this role. Compassion, attention to detail, and strong teamwork skills distinguish exceptional Veterinary Assistants. These abilities are crucial for ensuring animal well-being, supporting veterinarians, and maintaining an efficient, safe clinical environment.

What do I need to be a veterinary assistant?

To become a veterinary assistant, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent. Relevant skills include animal handling, communication, and basic knowledge of veterinary procedures; some employers may prefer certification or on-the-job training. Physical stamina and the ability to work in a veterinary clinic environment are also important.

What is the difference between Veterinary Assistant vs Veterinary Technician?

AspectVeterinary AssistantVeterinary Technician
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; on-the-job trainingAssociate degree in veterinary technology; certification often required
Work EnvironmentAssist veterinarians and technicians in clinics, animal shelters, and labsPerform more advanced medical procedures under supervision in clinics and hospitals
Job ResponsibilitiesAnimal restraint, cleaning, basic patient care, clerical tasksPerform lab work, administer medications, assist in surgeries, diagnostic testing
Industry UsageCommon entry-level role in veterinary practicesMore specialized role requiring formal education and certification

The main difference between a Veterinary Assistant and a Veterinary Technician lies in their education, responsibilities, and level of medical involvement. Veterinary Technicians have formal training and perform more complex medical tasks, while Veterinary Assistants focus on basic support and animal care. Both roles are essential in veterinary settings, but technicians typically have greater responsibilities and qualifications.

Is becoming a veterinary assistant worth it?

Veterinary assistants perform basic animal care, assist veterinarians, and often work in clinics or animal hospitals. The role typically requires a high school diploma or equivalent and offers opportunities for on-the-job training, with job growth driven by increasing pet ownership and demand for veterinary services.
More about Veterinary Assistant jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Veterinary jobs in Merced, CA? The most popular types of Veterinary jobs in Merced, CA are:
What are popular job titles related to Veterinary Assistant jobs in Merced, CA? For Veterinary Assistant jobs in Merced, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Veterinary Assistant jobs in Merced, CA look for? The top searched job categories for Veterinary Assistant jobs in Merced, CA are:
What cities near Merced, CA are hiring for Veterinary Assistant jobs? Cities near Merced, CA with the most Veterinary Assistant job openings:
Veterinary Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Veterinary Assistant job openings in Merced, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 4% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $37,869 per year, or $18.2 per hour.

Veterinary Technician - Community Veterinary Clinic

Community Veterinary Clinic

Turlock, CA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 8 days ago

Job description

Bring your skills to PetVet and earn a sign-on bonus of up to $1,000 based on your experience as a credentialed veterinary technician!
PetVet Care Centers' Community Veterinary Clinic is currently seeking a Veterinary Technician to join our team!
At PetVet Care Centers, our mission is to improve the lives of animals and people - providing exceptional and compassionate care at every stage - for all the moments that matter.
Because life is better with pets.
We deliver the Ultimate Care Experience - every pet, every client, every time. That starts with a Culture of Care that supports our team members as much as the pets and clients we serve.
With more than 420 locally led hospitals and over 11,000 team members nationwide, we offer:
  • Local autonomy with national support
  • Career mobility and development opportunities
  • A collaborative, inclusive environment where your wellbeing comes first

You care for pets. We care for you.
Position Overview
Join our team as a Veterinary Technician who supports hospital operations by providing dedicated quality veterinary care and exceptional service to our patients and clients. Responsibilities include providing patient care by determining animal requirements, conducting examinations and diagnostic procedures, assisting during surgery and operations, providing nursing care, assisting with feeding and caring for patients, maintaining medical supplies and equipment, overseeing triage and discharging patients, and maintaining patient medical records.
At our Community Veterinary Clinic in Turlock, California is dedicated to providing compassionate care and exceptional medical services to pets and their owners. We pride ourselves on fostering a supportive and friendly work environment, where teamwork and professional growth thrive. Join us to make a meaningful impact in the lives of animals and their families while advancing your career in veterinary medicine.
Key Responsibilities
  • Determine animal requirements by conducting examinations and interviews, reviewing care plans and records, completing laboratory tests and studies, and diagnostic imaging.
  • Care for patients by taking vital signs, collecting samples, administering medications, drugs, and vaccines, and bandaging and wrapping wounds.
  • Support patient examinations and operations by assembling required supplies and instruments, securing and bringing patients to examination rooms, and restraining patients; aids as directed by the veterinarian.
  • Provide excellent pet care by applying full knowledge of anatomy, physiology, disease processes, pharmacology, specialized equipment usage, and specialized drug administration.
  • Obtain and verify medications.
  • Ensure that patients have food and water, clean patients' rooms, cages, and equipment; observe patients for clinical signs of disease.
  • As directed, fill prescriptions and administer medications, including proper documentation, logging, and security of controlled drugs.
  • Maintain a safe, secure, healthy, and humane environment by sterilizing and wrapping instruments, sanitizing and disinfecting holding and operating areas, storing sterile supplies, verifying shelf life, following standards and procedures, and in compliance with applicable legal regulations.
  • Maintain medical records by documenting patients' conditions, reactions, and changes; update the database in an accurate and timely manner.
  • Communicate with the pet owner about the status of the patient, as directed by the veterinarian.
  • Maintain equipment by following operating instructions, troubleshooting breakdowns, maintaining equipment supplies, performing preventive maintenance, and calling for repairs.
  • Maintain inventory, place orders for needed supplies, verify, and maintain receipts.
  • Update job knowledge by participating in educational opportunities and reading professional journals.
  • Release pets to their owners as directed; ensure that every animal released is clean and properly groomed before their release.
  • Understand and carry out oral and written directions.
  • Perform other duties as assigned by Manager or practice.

Qualifications (Required)
  • Applicants must be 18 years of age or older to be considered for this position
  • High school diploma or GED.
  • Previous experience in a veterinary hospital
  • Proficiency in basic veterinary technical skills, including:
    • Blood draws (venipuncture)
    • IV catheter placement
    • Intubation and recovery of surgical patients
    • Anesthesia monitoring

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Preferred Skills (Nice to Have)
  • RVT is preferred, but also willing to train up someone with a good knowledge and skill base.

Schedule:
  • Open availability, willing to work Saturdays
  • Willing to work week days and Saturday, shifts are typically 7AM-4PM, 8AM-5PM or 9AM-6PM

What We Offer
We care deeply about supporting our team members - professionally and personally. Benefits include:
  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance
  • Paid Parental Leave (birth, adoption, foster)
  • 401(k) with discretionary contribution
  • Team Member Pet Discounts
  • Emotional wellbeing support - including Calm app access and 24/7 EAP
  • CE stipends and career development resources
  • Grant Circle - a relief fund for team members facing personal hardship
  • Local hospital culture backed by national resources

Pay Range
$18-$24 USD
At PetVet Care Centers, we're committed to a Culture of Care - for pets, for the people who love them, and for the team members who make it all possible. With more than 420 hospitals across the U.S. and a team of over 11,000 dedicated professionals, including 1700+ veterinarians, we offer a unique blend of local leadership and national support that helps our hospitals thrive.
Our model is built on partnership, collaboration, and local medical autonomy, empowering each hospital to deliver high-quality care while benefiting from shared resources and a strong professional community. Whether you're providing care in a hospital or supporting operations behind the scenes, PetVet is a place where you can grow your career, stay connected to your purpose, and make a meaningful impact.
You care for pets. We care for you.
PetVet is an equal opportunity employer. All employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, age, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, marital status, pregnancy, religion, citizenship, national origin/ancestry, physical/mental disabilities, military status or any other basis prohibited by law. EOE, M/F/D/V
PetVet respects your privacy and is committed to protecting your personal information. Please see our privacy notice for additional information about our data practices.

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