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Veterinary Assistant Jobs in Riverside, CA (NOW HIRING)

Banfield Pet Hospital

Veterinary Assistant

Santa Ana, CA · On-site

$16.50 - $20.50/hr

Veterinary Assistant Careers at Banfield Pet Hospital This posting will remain open for a minimum of two weeks from the posting date. For those who want to put their love of pets into action, there ...

Banfield Pet Hospital

Veterinary Assistant

Orange, CA · On-site

$16.75 - $21/hr

Veterinary Assistant Careers at Banfield Pet Hospital This posting will remain open for a minimum of two weeks from the posting date. For those who want to put their love of pets into action, there ...

Banfield Pet Hospital

Veterinary Assistant

Yorba Linda, CA · On-site

$17.60 - $22.49/hr

VETERINARY ASSISTANT For those who want to put their love of pets into action, there are few jobs more rewarding than that of Vet Assistant. While working closely with other pet health care ...

Banfield Pet Hospital

Veterinary Assistant

Upland, CA · On-site

$16 - $20/hr

Veterinary Assistant Careers at Banfield Pet Hospital This posting will remain open for a minimum of two weeks from the posting date. For those who want to put their love of pets into action, there ...

Banfield Pet Hospital

Veterinary Assistant

Santa Ana, CA · On-site

$16.50 - $20.50/hr

Veterinary Assistant Careers at Banfield Pet Hospital This posting will remain open for a minimum of two weeks from the posting date. For those who want to put their love of pets into action, there ...

Banfield Pet Hospital

Veterinary Assistant

Fontana, CA · On-site

$16 - $20/hr

Veterinary Assistant Careers at Banfield Pet Hospital This posting will remain open for a minimum of two weeks from the posting date. For those who want to put their love of pets into action, there ...

Banfield Pet Hospital

veterinary assistant

Upland, CA · On-site

$16 - $20/hr

Veterinary Assistant Careers at Banfield Pet Hospital This posting will remain open for a minimum of two weeks from the posting date. For those who want to put their love of pets into action, there ...

Banfield Pet Hospital

Veterinary Assistant

Tustin, CA · On-site

$17.60 - $22.49/hr

Veterinary Assistant Careers at Banfield Pet Hospital For those who want to put their love of pets into action, there are few jobs more rewarding than that of Vet Assistant. While working closely ...

Thrive Pet Healthcare

Veterinary Assistant

Tustin, CA · On-site

$19/hr

Description Veterinary Cancer Group of Orange County is looking for a Veterinary Assistant to join our team as part of the Thrive Pet Healthcare community. Compensation is negotiable based on ...

Banfield Pet Hospital

Veterinary Assistant

Eastvale, CA · On-site

$16.25 - $20.50/hr

Veterinary Assistant The Veterinary Assistant supports the veterinarians and veterinary technicians in ensuring quality veterinary care for all pets, advocates for pets, educates clients on all ...

Petco

Veterinary Assistant

Riverside, CA · On-site

$16.50 - $20.50/hr

Our Veterinary Assistants set the tone for the technical and customer support in the hospital, and are responsible, like all team members, for fostering cohesion and motivation within the practice.

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Veterinary Assistant information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$10

$17

$24

How much do veterinary assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for veterinary assistant in Riverside, CA is $17.99, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.82 and $19.81 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. Strong communication skills, basic knowledge of animal care, 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

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

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Veterinary Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Veterinary Assistant job openings in Riverside, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,411 per year, or $18 per hour.

Veterinary Assistant

Veterinary Cancer Group OC

Tustin, CA

$19/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 21 days ago

Job description

Description

Veterinary Cancer Group of Orange County is looking for a Veterinary Assistant to join our team as part of the Thrive Pet Healthcare community. 

Compensation is negotiable based on credentials and experience with a hourly pay rate starting at $19 hour/ DOE. The actual rate offered will carefully consider a wide range of factors, including your skills, qualifications, experience, and location.  

Our assistants are vital team members and help ensure the hospital is well stocked, cleaned, patient comfort/care, charges are captured, prescriptions dispensed, and provide general assistance to the team.
The right candidate is a motivated team player with a flexible work schedule between Monday-Friday with 4x10 hour shifts. 
Work directly with the Veterinary Technicians and Veterinarians providing support to patients in our care. Previous experience in animal handling or veterinary hospital experience is desired. Additional training provided. 
We offer a wonderful benefits package, including medical, vision & dental insurance, PTO for all full time employees, internal and external continuing education, dynamic pet care discounts, 401K, and much, more! Rate of pay based on experience starting at $19/hr.   We promote an encouraging work environment and positive work/life balance. We invest heavily in our employees, providing many opportunities for growth and development.  

About You 

As a Veterinary Assistant, you'll play an important role in pets' lives by providing comprehensive care throughout their journey. 

Role Responsibilities: 

  • Support veterinarians to ensure quality veterinary care, advocate for pets, and educate clients. 
  • With each hospital function, assist veterinarians and the medical team to maximize productivity and maintain positive patient flow. 
  • Maintain and utilize laboratory equipment and tests 
  • Opening and closing duties
  • Assist in maintaining relevant, comprehensive medical records in our PMS.
  • Communicate with clients and obtain relevant health history and information from clients to communicate to the veterinarians 
  • Use safe restraining techniques, follow standard protocols, and sustain clean, sterile, organized treatment areas, exam rooms, and labs. 
  • Be willing to learn from and support fellow team members. 

Benefits:

● Mental health benefits including coaching and therapy sessions

● 401k with employer contribution and no waiting period

● Continuing education and development support through our library of free CE courses and paid time off to complete

● Scholarship opportunities and student loan support program

and so much more!


If you are passionate about pets and providing great care, apply today!
Learn more about us at https://vetcancergroup.com/
We look forward to hearing from you!