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Veterinary Nurse Jobs in Riverside, CA (NOW HIRING)

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Veterinary Nurse information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$5

$18

$23

How much do veterinary nurse jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for veterinary nurse in Riverside, CA is $18.47, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.06 and $20.34 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Veterinary Nurse vs Veterinary Technician?

AspectVeterinary NurseVeterinary Technician
CredentialsTypically requires a veterinary nursing diploma or certificationOften holds a veterinary technician or technologist credential
Work EnvironmentClinics, hospitals, animal shelters, and private practicesSimilar settings, including clinics and research facilities
Job RoleAssists veterinarians, provides patient care, educates pet ownersPerforms diagnostic tests, assists in surgeries, manages patient records

Veterinary Nurses and Veterinary Technicians often share similar roles, work environments, and credentials. The main difference lies in regional terminology and specific certification requirements, but both are essential in supporting veterinary care and animal health.

Is veterinary nursing a good career choice?

Veterinary nursing is a rewarding career for those interested in animal care, requiring skills in medical procedures, patient handling, and client communication. It offers job stability, opportunities for specialization, and typically requires certification or licensing. The role involves working in veterinary clinics, hospitals, or shelters and often includes shift work and physical activity.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a veterinary nurse, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Veterinary Nurse, you need a solid background in animal care, medical knowledge, and a recognized veterinary nursing qualification or certification. Familiarity with veterinary practice management software, diagnostic equipment, and laboratory procedures is typically required. Compassion, strong communication, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are vital soft skills for supporting both animals and their owners. These skills ensure high standards of animal care, efficient clinic operations, and positive client experiences.

What is a veterinary nurse?

A veterinary nurse assists licensed veterinarians in caring for pets and other animals. Job duties include treating sick or injured animals, doing preliminary examinations of pets during well visits, running diagnostic tests and administering vaccinations, educating pet owners about preventive and aftercare, and helping the attending veterinarian with complex procedures. A veterinary nurse may encounter a wide variety of animals in their work depending on their employer.

Where do veterinary nurses make the most money?

Veterinary nurses tend to earn higher salaries in regions with a higher cost of living and greater demand for veterinary services, such as urban areas or regions with a strong pet care industry. Salaries can also vary based on experience, certifications, and the type of practice, with specialized or emergency clinics often offering higher pay.

What are some common challenges veterinary nurses face when working in busy animal hospitals?

Veterinary Nurses in busy animal hospitals often encounter challenges such as managing multiple urgent cases simultaneously, communicating effectively with both pet owners and veterinary teams, and keeping up with the physical demands of the job, like lifting animals and standing for extended periods. Adapting quickly to changing situations and prioritizing tasks are key skills in this environment. Despite these challenges, the role offers a rewarding opportunity to make a tangible difference in animal health and client satisfaction.

What can I do with a veterinary nurse degree?

A veterinary nurse degree prepares individuals to assist veterinarians in animal care, perform clinical procedures, and provide client education. Graduates can work in veterinary clinics, animal hospitals, shelters, or research facilities, often requiring certification or licensing depending on the region. The role involves hands-on animal handling, medical record keeping, and using veterinary tools and equipment.
What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for Veterinary Nurse jobs? Cities near Riverside, CA with the most Veterinary Nurse job openings:
Infographic showing various Veterinary Nurse job openings in Riverside, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% As Needed, 58% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 23% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,427 per year, or $18.5 per hour.

Overnight Veterinary Technician, ER

Ethos Veterinary Health

Tustin, CA โ€ข On-site

$26 - $35/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 20 days ago


Job description

Overnight Emergency Veterinary Technician (ER Vet Tech) - $1,000 Sign-On Bonus
Location: Santa Barbara, CA
Job Type: Full-Time
Schedule: 4/10s or 3/12s Overnight Shifts
Pay: $26.00-$35.00 per hour + $2.00/hour Overnight Differential (for hours worked between 6:00 PM and 6:00 AM)
Sign-On Bonus: $1,000
Advanced Veterinary Specialists is seeking an experienced Overnight Emergency Veterinary Technician to join our growing Emergency and Critical Care team in beautiful Santa Barbara, California.
As a premierspecialty and emergency veterinary hospital, our team includes board-certified specialists in surgery, oncology, internal medicine, cardiology, and dentistry, alongside a highly skilled group of emergency veterinarians. We are dedicated to providing exceptional patient care, advanced veterinary medicine, and life-saving treatment for pets when they need it most.
If you are passionate about emergency veterinary medicine, thrive in a fast-paced environment, and enjoy making a difference in the lives of animals and their families, we encourage you to apply.Veterinary Technician Responsibilities
As an Overnight Emergency Veterinary Technician, you will:
  • Triage, assess, and prioritize incoming emergency patients
  • Stabilize and monitor critically ill or injured patients
  • Administer medications, IV fluids, and treatments as prescribed
  • Assist with emergency procedures, diagnostics, surgery, and anesthesia support
  • Monitor vital signs and maintain accurate medical records
  • Provide nursing care, wound management, and post-operative support
  • Communicate with pet owners regarding treatment plans and aftercare instructions
  • Maintain a clean, organized, and safe hospital environment
  • Collaborate with veterinarians and support staff to deliver exceptional patient care
  • Provide compassionate care to patients and emotional support to their families
Qualifications
Required
  • High school diploma or equivalent
  • Minimum of 2 years of experience in a veterinary hospital or clinical veterinary setting
  • Strong knowledge of veterinary patient care, medication administration, and emergency protocols
  • Excellent communication, multitasking, and client service skills
  • Ability to accurately perform medical calculations, including drug dosages, CRIs, estimates, and invoices
  • Ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced emergency and critical care environment
  • Must obtain and maintain a California Veterinary Assistant Controlled Substance Permit (VACSP) within 60 days of hire unless holding a current California RVT license
Preferred
  • Emergency Room (ER), Critical Care, ICU, or Specialty Hospital experience
  • Current California Registered Veterinary Technician (RVT) license
  • Experience with emergency triage, anesthesia monitoring, and advanced patient care
  • Veterinary Technician Specialist (VTS) interest or pursuit welcomed
Benefits
Full-Time Benefits Include:
  • Medical, dental, vision, disability, and life insurance
  • Flexible Spending Account (FSA), 401(k), and Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
  • Three weeks accrued paid time off (PTO) and uniform allowance
  • Annual Veterinary Technician and RVT continuing education (CE) allowance
  • Complimentary VetBloom access to RACE-approved training and educational resources
  • RVT license application and renewal reimbursement
  • Career growth and advancement opportunities
Why Join Advanced Veterinary Specialists?
At Advanced Veterinary Specialists, you'll work alongside board-certified specialists and experienced emergency veterinarians while providing life-saving care to pets in need. We are committed to fostering a collaborative environment where veterinary professionals can grow their skills, advance their careers, and make a meaningful impact every day.
Apply today to join one of California's leading Emergency and Specialty Veterinary Hospitals and help deliver exceptional patient care when it matters most.
Ethos Veterinary Health is at the forefront of innovation and world-class medicine. As the premier network of over 140 specialty and emergency hospitals across North America, Ethos brings together a dedicated community of more than 1,500 specialized doctors providing care for nearly 2 million pets annually. The integrated and collaborative network of veterinary professionals utilize state-of-the-art technology and a scientific, evidence-based approach to deliver compassionate, unparalleled care and rewarding careers. Committed to revolutionizing veterinary medicine, Ethos sets the standard in veterinary excellence. Discover more at EthosVet.com.
Ethos Veterinary Health offers a comprehensive benefits program including medical, dental, vision, a 401k with employer match, and paid time off (including sick time) for all eligible employees. The team can provide more information about compensation and benefits for your specific location during the process. For positions based in Colorado, Ethos provides eligible employees with paid sick and safe leave and public health emergency leave in accordance with the requirements of Colorado's Healthy Families and Workplaces Act.
Ethos is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Ethos does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, physical or mental disability, national origin, veteran status or any other basis covered by appropriate law. All employment is decided based on qualifications, competence, merit, and business need.