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Veterinary Assistant Jobs in Merced, CA (NOW HIRING)

UC Davis Health

Laboratory Assistant (LAB AST 2)

Turlock, CA · On-site

$27.10 - $32.65/hr

The Laboratory Assistant II position is responsible for entering client/animal/specimen information ... Experience or knowledge of veterinary/medical laboratory diagnostic setting; including specimen ...

Petco

Animal Care Supervisor

Atwater, CA · On-site

Act immediately and appropriately for sick or injured animals in alignment with veterinary ... * Assist with additional duties as needed to support business needs. People Leadership * Train ...

Petco

Animal Care Supervisor

Merced, CA · On-site

Act immediately and appropriately for sick or injured animals in alignment with veterinary ... * Assist with additional duties as needed to support business needs. People Leadership * Train ...

Balanced Books

Administrative Assistant

Turlock, CA · On-site

$17 - $20/hr

Administrative Assistant About Us At Balanced Books, LLP, we are a fast-growing firm dedicated to providing exceptional bookkeeping services. Based in California's Central Valley, we support small ...

BCForward

Administrative Assistant

Turlock, CA · On-site

$25 - $26/hr

Administrative Assistant Location: Turlock, CA 95380 Expected Duration: 02+ Months 7:30am-4pm Mon-Fri * Organizes department functions and meetings, answers questions pertaining to company policies ...

BCForward

Administrative Assistant

Turlock, CA · On-site

$25 - $26/hr

Process purchase orders and order supplies * Assist with expense reporting and related administrative tasks * Support day-to-day departmental operations and address policy-related questions Required ...

Buckeye Global IT Inc

Be Seen First

Administrative Assistant

Turlock, CA · On-site

$23 - $26/hr

Administrative Assistant (ONSITE) Location: 1125 PAULSON RD, Turlock, CA, USA, 95380 Duration: 3 Months Contract Schedule: Mon - Fri 7:30am-4pm Organizes department functions and meetings, answers ...

Robert Half

Administrative Assistant

Merced, CA · On-site

$17.10 - $19.80/hr

We are looking for a bilingual Spanish Administrative Assistant to support daily office operations and provide reliable coordination for staff and board activities. This Long-term Contract position ...

MACT Health Board Inc

Lead Medical Assistant

Mariposa, CA · On-site

$31.56 - $36.53/hr

We are seeking a motivated Lead Medical Assistant for a Full Time role working in a clinical setting. As a member of the health care team, the Lead Medical Assistant provides training and leadership ...

Golden State Dermatology

Medical Assistant

Turlock, CA

$21 - $25/hr

As a Medical Assistant, you'll get the unique opportunity to partner with providers and guide patients through their treatment. * Preparing exam and treatment rooms with necessary instruments and ...

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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 Sep 2, 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.

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 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 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.

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 certifications or coursework in animal care. Entry-level roles provide opportunities to gain practical experience in a veterinary setting.

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.

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 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 program or certification can improve job prospects. Strong communication skills, basic knowledge of animal care, and the ability to work in a fast-paced environment are also important.
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:

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For Veterinary Assistant jobs in Merced, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

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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 93% Full Time, and 7% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $37,869 per year, or $18.2 per hour.

RISE New Grad Mentorship Program - Santa Fe Pet Hospital Associate Veterinarian

Santa Fe Pet Hospital

Merced, CA • On-site

$140K/yr

Full-time

PTO

Re-posted 15 days ago

Job description

RISE New Grad Job Ad - Santa Fe Pet Hospital
The RISE Mentorship Program is a year-long immersive experience designed to support new veterinary graduates as they transition from an academic setting and into the "real world" of clinical practice. RISE Centers pair new graduate veterinarians with experienced mentors to provide hands-on learning, real-time case management, and professional development. Participants also join a nationwide cohort of peers, building a supportive network that lasts well beyond the program.
Who is this program for?
  • New veterinary graduates who are eager to practice high-quality medicine and grow their clinical skills in a supportive, real-world setting.
  • Candidates interested in working in General Practice (GP), Emergency (ER), or Mixed Animal Practices, depending on location availability.

What does this program offer?
  • Full-Time employment in a RISE Center with hands-on mentorship, while slowly transitioning to independently managing a caseload.
  • Dual Mentorship Model: On-site support from a "home hospital" mentor and centralized guidance from the national mentorship team.
  • Competitive Compensation: Salary tailored to the specific hospital and regions budget.

Comprehensive Benefits Package includes:
  • Full-time employee benefits
  • Competitive Sign-on bonus
  • Relocation assistance available
  • Ask about our training assistance bonus
  • CE reimbursement allowance and paid PTO days for CE events

Where will this take place?
  • Nationwide! We have hospitals across the country to meet your geographical preferences.

When does this program start?
  • We have flexibility for you to start when it works best for you!

Center Details:
  • Santa Fe Pet Hospital has been giving families and their adorable pets first-rate veterinary care since 1977. We are a full-service hospital and offer a range of quality veterinary services to help keep your cat or dog in optimal health, such as routine exams, vaccinations, dental care, surgery, and more.
  • We have a wonderful, supportive team and look forward to welcoming a new Veterinarian!
  • The base salary starts at $140,000 annually, with pro-sal opportunities available.

Why PetVet?
Our RISE program is designed to help early-career professionals take the first step in their veterinary journey-with opportunities to build hands-on experience, deepen their knowledge, and be part of a team that truly cares. Participants also gain exposure to our growing continuing education (CE) program, supporting long-term growth and development across clinical and leadership pathways.
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 400 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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