Veterinary Assistant

Companion Pet Partners; San Diego (CA); On-site; USD 27,552 - 35,817; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Employee discounts on services

Scrub allowance

Referral program

Job summary

Companion Pet Partners in San Diego is seeking a full-time Veterinary Assistant. Join an esteemed veterinary hospital and contribute to making a meaningful difference in animals' lives while learning and growing in the field.

The successful candidate will possess strong animal handling skills and experience in an animal hospital. Competitive pay ranges from $20.00 to $26.00 per hour, with comprehensive benefits including health, dental, and vision insurance.

Qualifications

• Must have strong animal handling skills and the ability to safely restrain patients.
• Knowledge of administering medications and vaccines.
• Experience in monitoring patients and maintaining medical records.

Responsibilities

• Assist with treatments, diagnostics, and surgeries.
• Maintain cleanliness and ensure a sanitary environment.
• Communicate care plans and educate clients.

Skills

Animal handling skills

Communication skills

Attention to detail

Medication administration

Knowledge of diagnostic imaging

Education

High School diploma or equivalent

Experience in an animal hospital

Associate degree in veterinary technology

Job description

Why Join Our Team

For over three decades, Center Veterinary Clinic has been a trusted name in San Diego, combining a compassionate community focus with advanced medical capabilities. We are proud to be named one of Newsweek's Best Veterinary Hospitals in the US for 2026, a testament to our high-quality care. Our team remains dedicated to delivering a unique blend of advanced urgent care and integrative wellness, including specialized endoscopy, acupuncture, and progressive pain management.

Our modern facility features full IDEXX in-house laboratory capabilities, a Cubex inventory system, and eight examination rooms within a workflow designed for maximum efficiency. With multiple Registered Veterinary Technicians (RVTs) providing strong clinical support, we maintain exceptional patient flow so our veterinarians can focus on practicing outstanding medicine.

• Excellence Recognized: Our "Best Veterinary Practice" award and 30+ years of dedication reflect our unwavering commitment to veterinary excellence
• Team-Driven Culture: Built on respect, collaboration, and compassion
• Advanced Medicine: Offering specialized services like endoscopy and acupuncture
• Efficient Design: Purpose-built workflow and systems for optimal patient care
• Strong Support: Multiple RVTs and sophisticated technology for clinical excellence

Located in San Diego, join a practice where innovation meets heart in one of California's most desirable coastal cities. Experience a rare opportunity to build a career—not just a job—with a team that values both clinical excellence and personal fulfillment.

About This Role

Join our veterinary hospital as a full‑time Veterinary Assistant and become a teammate of our animal healthcare team! This position offers the perfect opportunity to make a meaningful difference in animals' lives while building a strong foundation in veterinary medicine. If you have a genuine love for animals and a desire to grow in the veterinary field, we'd love to welcome you to our team.

• Must be open to working any day of the week including Saturdays and Sundays*

What Success Looks Like

• Compassionate Care Provider: Handle, restrain, comfort, and reassure animals of all temperaments.
• Medical Support Expert: Assist with treatments, diagnostics, and surgeries; monitor patients; maintain records.
• Hospital Caretaker: Maintain cleanliness, organize facilities, and ensure a sanitary environment.
• Communication Liaison: Relay patient updates and ensure care continuity among the team.
• Client Educator: Communicate care plans, instruct home treatment to clients, and guide medication use.

What Makes You a Great Fit

• Strong animal handling skills with the ability to safely restrain patients of all temperaments for examinations and procedures
• Knowledge of diagnostic imaging positioning and laboratory diagnostics
• Proficiency with venipuncture including IV catheter placement and blood draws
• Experienced with medication administration (PO, SQ, IM, and IV) and vaccine administration
• Knowledge of prescription medications to effectively instruct clients with home care instructions
• Excellent attention to detail in monitoring patients and maintaining medical records
• Effective communication skills with team members and clients

Education & Experience

• High School diploma or equivalent required
• At least one year of experience in an animal hospital completing the details listed above
• Anesthesia monitoring experience preferred but not required
• Proficient computer skills for maintaining electronic medical records
• Associate degree in veterinary technology or continuing education in veterinary science a plus

How We’ll Support You

• Competitive Pay: $20.00 - $26.00 per hour, commensurate with experience
• Comprehensive Benefits: Health, dental, and vision insurance, plus 401k with company match
• Growth Opportunities: Continuing education and professional development support
• Work-Life Balance: PTO and mental health assistance
• Perks: Employee discounts on services, a scrub allowance, and a referral program
• A Welcoming Team: We’re a hard‑working and collaborative team where your voice matters!

EEO Statement

We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.