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Veterinary Assistant Jobs in Riverside, CA (NOW HIRING)

Veterinary Assistant

Tustin, CA ยท On-site

$23 - $27/hr

Animal Dermatology Clinic - Tustin is seeking an experienced Veterinary Assistant. We are looking for someone with the following qualities: * Energetic * Positive * Upbeat personality * Takes ...

Veterinary Assistant

Anaheim, CA

$16.50 - $20.75/hr

Experience as a veterinary technician or assistant. * Strong animal handling skills and knowledge of clinical procedures. * Excellent communication and teamwork skills. * Veterinary Technician ...

Veterinary Assistant

Diamond Bar, CA ยท On-site

$16.50 - $20.75/hr

Your Impact as a Veterinary Assistant * Provide Essential Patient Care: You'll be a key player in the health of our patients, assisting the medical team with hands-on care and ensuring every animal ...

PT Veterinary Assistant

Riverside, CA ยท On-site

$17.60 - $22.49/hr

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

PT Veterinary Assistant

Riverside, CA ยท On-site

$16.50 - $20.50/hr

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

Veterinary Assistant

Ontario, CA ยท On-site

$21 - $24/hr

We are seeking an experienced Veterinary Assistant to join our team. The Role: In this position, you aren't just "helping out" - you are a vital part of the medical process. You will work closely ...

Veterinary Assistant

Ontario, CA ยท On-site

$21 - $24/hr

We are seeking an experienced Veterinary Assistant to join our team. The Role: In this position, you aren't just "helping out" - you are a vital part of the medical process. You will work closely ...

Veterinary Assistant

Redlands, CA ยท On-site

$20 - $23/hr

The veterinary assistant is the entire team's primary support. Every department relies on their significant role in aiding with a variety of services to provide excellent client and patient care.

Showing results 41-60

Veterinary Assistant information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$10

$17

$24

How much do veterinary assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 4, 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.

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.

What are the most commonly searched types of Veterinary jobs in Riverside, CA?

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

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

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

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

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

Infographic showing various Veterinary Assistant job openings in Riverside, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 72% Full Time, and 28% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $37,411 per year, or $18 per hour.

Veterinary Assistant

Animal Dermatology Group

Tustin, CA โ€ข On-site

$23 - $27/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 7 days ago


Job description

Description:

Animal Dermatology Group (ADG) is the largest veterinary dermatology business in the U.S., providing the highest quality of specialty care to pets with acute and chronic skin conditions. ADG has over 40 locations nationwide. With over 90 doctors supporting the ADG medical team, they strive to lead in clinical practice, research and education in our field. In additional to providing advanced, dermatology specialized care to patients and supporting general practice veterinarians in our geographic service areas, ADG participates in drug/product development and clinical trials. ADG also has the largest dermatology residency program approved by the American College of Veterinary Dermatology to support the training of the next generation of dermatologists.


Animal Dermatology Clinic - Tustin is seeking an experienced Veterinary Assistant.


We are looking for someone with the following qualities:

  • Energetic
  • Positive
  • Upbeat personality
  • Takes initiative
  • Commitment to the needs of the clinic
  • Punctual
  • Willingness to teach others and share ideas
  • Openness to diversity
  • Adaptability to change
  • Accountable
  • Able to see big picture
Requirements:Knowledge, Skills and Abilities (including but not limited to):
  • Minimum of three years of Veterinary Assistant experience, including monitoring anesthesia
  • Must be friendly, outgoing, “people oriented”
  • Excellent communication skills
  • Must be capable of being cross-trained for front office receptionist duties, telephone and computer skills are necessary
  • Must be a team player willing to learn new techniques, treatments, and accept change
Medical Related Skills:
  • Preparing and restraining animals during procedures
  • Assisting in surgery
  • Apply bandages and/or splints
  • Wound care
  • Ability to use a stethoscope
  • Advising pet owners on proper care, etc.
Duties (including but not limited to):
  • Demonstrate excellent relations with client/ pets in the waiting area and exam rooms
  • Exceed the client’s expectations of service
  • Compassionate nursing care is the top priority for all patients
  • Housekeeping/ maintenance
  • Ability to perform a cursory examination of an animal
  • Ability to recognize potential patient issues
  • Clearly communicate your findings to a doctor
  • Record keeping
  • Fill prescription and dispense medications as prescribed by the doctor, etc.
Education and Physical Requirements:
  • Dependable attendance is required
  • Must be able to lift 40 pounds
  • Must be willing to work long or irregular hours under pressure conditions
  • The ability to walk, bend, stand, squat, or reach constantly during a minimum 8-hour day.

Benefits:

  • No weekends
  • Paid vacation
  • Paid holidays
  • Competitive wages
  • Monthly bonuses based on clinic dietary sales
  • Medical, dental, vision, dependent care FSA, and short-term disability benefit options
  • Various voluntary benefit offerings, including hospital indemnity, accident, critical illness, etc.
  • 401K with employer match
  • CE opportunities
  • Uniforms
  • Discounts on services and medications for employee pets

*Some traveling may be required


For more information about Animal Dermatology Clinic, please visit our website animaldermatology.com!