ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Veterinary Assistant Jobs in Modesto, CA (NOW HIRING)

PetCura Animal Hospital

Veterinary Assistant

Livermore, CA · On-site

$18 - $25/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

We are seeking a reliable, motivated Veterinary Assistant who thrives in a structured, fast-paced environment. This role requires strong attention to detail, the ability to multitask, and a ...

Standiford Veterinary Center

Veterinary Surgeon

Modesto, CA · On-site

$200K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

At Standiford Veterinary Center, we are committed to improving the lives of pets and the people who love them. We're seeking a talented surgeon to join our team and enjoy a balanced lifestyle.

Standiford Veterinary Center

Veterinary Surgeon

Modesto, CA · On-site

$200K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

At Standiford Veterinary Center, we are committed to improving the lives of pets and the people who love them. We're seeking a talented surgeon to join our team and enjoy a balanced lifestyle.

Standiford Veterinary Center

Veterinary Surgeon

Modesto, CA

$200K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

At Standiford Veterinary Center, we are committed to improving the lives of pets and the people who love them. We're seeking a talented surgeon to join our team and enjoy a balanced lifestyle.

Standiford Veterinary Center

Veterinary Surgeon

Modesto, CA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

At Standiford Veterinary Center, we are committed to improving the lives of pets and the people who love them. We're seeking a talented surgeon to join our team and enjoy a balanced lifestyle.

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsVeterinary JobsVeterinary Assistant JobsVeterinary Assistant Jobs in Modesto, CA

Veterinary Assistant information

See Modesto, CA salary details

$12

$21

$29

How much do veterinary assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for veterinary assistant in Modesto, CA is $21.30, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.70 and $23.46 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 Modesto, CA?

The most popular types of Veterinary jobs in Modesto, CA are:

What are popular job titles related to Veterinary Assistant jobs in Modesto, CA?

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

What job categories do people searching Veterinary Assistant jobs in Modesto, CA look for?

The top searched job categories for Veterinary Assistant jobs in Modesto, CA are:

What cities near Modesto, CA are hiring for Veterinary Assistant jobs?

Cities near Modesto, CA with the most Veterinary Assistant job openings:

Veterinary Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Veterinary Assistant job openings in Modesto, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 26% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,295 per year, or $21.3 per hour.

Emergency Veterinary Assistant (Swing shift)

Standiford Veterinary Center

Modesto, CA • On-site

$16.50 - $20.75/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted yesterday

Job description

Description
Position at Standiford Veterinary Center
Emergency Veterinary Assistant (Swing Shift)
About the position: Outpatient staff facilitate all appointments related to wellness care and preventative medicine. Some shifts will consist of seeing your own tech/ assistant appointments. Teams are made up of two veterinary assistants per DVM. Focus is determining patient and owner needs with the clinical skill set to fulfill these needs. Establishing a good professional relationship for all clients is key, as we strive to provide care for all life stages of their fur-babies.
Veterinary Assistants are a valuable member of our medical team. Vet Assistants facilitate all appointments related to wellness care and preventative medicine and play a crucial role in patient care and client service. You will work closely with doctors and technicians to increase the efficiency within our hospital as well as the level of care we provide as a team. Come thrive in an environment that encourages learning and continued growth within the profession.
Essential Functions and Responsibilities:
  • Animal handling and restraint
  • Assist doctors and technicians with medical treatments, diagnostic tests, and procedures
  • Obtain health history from clients, ensuring documentation is accurate and complete
  • Maintain cleanliness of treatment and patient areas
  • Restock and organize medical supplies
  • Continually advance your knowledgebase and skill set

Skills and Qualifications:
  • 1-year professional experience as a veterinary assistant preferred
  • Must possess excellent communication skills, the ability to problem solves and handle multiple tasks
  • Must have the ability to adjust to changes in the environment and able to handle stress in a calm manner
  • Must be a team player, have patience and maintain a positive attitude.
  • Must be detail oriented due to the high level of quality medicine.
  • Must be able to lift and restrain pets of at least 40 pounds, and work on feet most of the day.

Benefits and Perks: Maybe subject to employment status
  • Complimentary Short-Term Disability
  • Complimentary Life Insurance; with options to purchase additional voluntary benefits for self or family
  • Company Sponsored Employee Assistance Program (Headspace)
  • 401K with 100% company match up to 3% and 4% company match for your 5% of contributions, eligible after 6 months of employment
  • Florida Blue Insurance Plans with 3-tiered options; Kaiser for CA Residents
  • Flexible Spending Account, Health Savings Account or Health Reimbursement Account options
  • United Healthcare Dental Insurance; includes a 100% paid premium option for team members
  • United Healthcare Vision Insurance options
  • Long Term Disability option (paid for by employee)
  • Progyny-Fertility and Family Building Support
  • Team Member Discounts for Pet Care
  • Paid time off-sick, personal, and vacation time offered.
  • Digital Musculoskeletal Support
  • Referral Bonus Program
  • DailyPay on Demand
  • Scrub Allowance
  • $20-$23.00/hour, depending on experience

Standiford Veterinary Center employs 130 staff members dedicated to the betterment of veterinary medicine in our region. Our multiple locations offer 24/7 services to the Modesto community in the form of general medicine, emergency medicine, dedicated surgery, and ICU teams.
We are a proud United Veterinary Care Partner hospital. United Veterinary Care supports the unique culture and individuality of each partner hospital while empowering the hospital teams in their care for patients. One of our goals is to support our community of hospitals in creating sustainable, fulfilling careers in a profession we love.

Apply