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Veterinary Assistant Jobs in San Ramon, CA (NOW HIRING)

Banfield Pet Hospital

Veterinary Assistant

San Jose, CA · On-site

$19.99 - $25.54/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 ...

Banfield Pet Hospital

Veterinary Assistant

San Jose, CA · On-site

$19.99 - $25.54/hr

Opening Statement 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 ...

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All JobsVeterinary JobsVeterinary Assistant JobsVeterinary Assistant Jobs in San Ramon, CA

Veterinary Assistant information

See San Ramon, CA salary details

$11

$19

$26

How much do veterinary assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for veterinary assistant in San Ramon, CA is $19.27, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.92 and $21.20 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 San Ramon, CA? The most popular types of Veterinary jobs in San Ramon, CA are:
What cities near San Ramon, CA are hiring for Veterinary Assistant jobs? Cities near San Ramon, CA with the most Veterinary Assistant job openings:
Veterinary Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Veterinary Assistant job openings in San Ramon, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, and 9% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $40,074 per year, or $19.3 per hour.

Veterinary Assistant

National Veterinary Associates

Brentwood, CA

$20 - $24/hr

Full-time, Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 5 days ago

Job description

We're Hiring: Veterinary Assistant - Brentwood, CA 

Location: 121 Sand Creek. Suite B. Brentwood, California

Are you a dedicated Veterinary Assistant who thrives in a busy, team-oriented environment where patient care comes first? We're a high-energy general practice veterinary hospital in Brentwood, CA, and we're looking for an enthusiastic Veterinary Assistant to become a vital part of our compassionate, skilled team.

About Us:

We pride ourselves on delivering personalized, top-tier veterinary care to companion animals and their families. We currently have six full-time Doctors and one part-time Doctor, with plans on expanding. We recently relocated into a brand-new facility in August 2025. We offer a wide range of services including preventative care, dentistry, surgery, diagnostics, and emergency care during business hours.

What You'll Do:

         Assist veterinarians and technicians during exams, treatments, and procedures

         Restrain animals safely and compassionately for exams and diagnostics

         Administer medications and vaccinations under veterinary supervision

         Prepare patients and equipment for surgery and other procedures

         Maintain a clean, organized, and sanitary hospital environment including cleaning, care, wrapping, and sterilizing instruments and packs

         Support client communication and education with professionalism and care

         Monitor and care for hospitalized and post-op patients

         Stock supplies and assist with inventory management

         Help with lab work sample collections

         Pharmacy tasks such as filling prescriptions, measuring medications, and our online pharmacy.

         Assist with dental cleanings and radiographs (as trained)

         Participate in a collaborative team culture and ongoing training

What We're Looking For:

         Previous veterinary assistant experience preferred but not required - we're happy to train the right candidate

         Excellent animal handling skills

         Ability to multitask and work in a fast-paced environment

         Strong communication skills and a positive, team-focused attitude

         Passion for patient care and client service

         Reliable, punctual, and eager to learn

         Must be able to lift 40 lbs, walk 100+lb dogs, and stand for extended periods

What We Offer:

  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance
  • 401k with hospital match!
  • Paid time off and holidays
  • NO weekends
  • Opportunities for continuing education and career growth
  • Employee pet care discounts
  • Annual uniform allowance
  • A supportive team that values your contribution and encourages professional development
  • The base hourly range for this position is $20 - $24. Our pay ranges are primarily determined by role, level, and location. The range provided for each job posting reflects the minimum and maximum target for the position. Within the range, individual pay is determined by work location and additional factors, including job-related skills, experience, and relevant education or training.

If you're ready to grow your career in veterinary medicine and work alongside a team that's committed to excellence, we want to meet you!

Hiring Manager DeVincenzi, Linda

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About NVA

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Nashville Veterinary Specialists + Animal Emergency (NVS) is a veterinary specialty and emergency hospital group with two locations in Nashville and Clarksville, Tennessee. Our Mission and primary focus is to honor the human-animal bond in all we do, focusing on patient care, client experience, and the health of our team. We believe we can never stop improving and strive to improve in all we do. Not only do we focus on patient care, but core to our hospital culture is also a focus on the health of our team, our community, and the environment. We are committed to sustainable environmental practices. NVS works in partnership with National Veterinary Associates-Compassion-First (NVA C-F). NVA-CF is the largest private owner of freestanding veterinary hospitals in North America with over 1400 locations worldwide.

Headquarters location

Agoura Hills, CA, US

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