Veterinary Assistants
| Description |
OES Code: 79806 |
Examine animals for veterinarian; prepare animals for surgery; perform post-operational medical treatment as needed; and give medications to animals. Usually works directly under veterinarian. Receive extensive training on the job and may also have some postsecondary education such as trade school or junior college.
Wages, California
| Entry-Level Hourly Wage |
$6.56 |
| 25th Percentile |
$7.05 |
| 50th Percentile |
$8.12 |
| 75th Percentile |
$10.18 |
Wages, San Joaquin County
| Entry-Level Hourly Wage |
$8.23 |
| 25th Percentile |
$9.01 |
| 50th Percentile |
$10.92 |
| 75th Percentile |
$14.50 |
Wages by California County
• OES Survey
• CCOIS Survey
Hours & Benefits
Many animal care facilities operate on a 24-hour schedule. Therefore, technicians must work on rotating or split shifts, weekends, and holidays.
Most employees are full time and average 38 hours per week. Many employees are part time and average 19 hours per week.
Most employers provide medical insurance, sick leave and vacation.
Employment Trends, California
| Employment 1998 |
5,200 |
| Projected Employment 2008 |
6,700 |
| Percent Change 1998-2008 |
28.8% |
| Separations 1998-2008 |
900 |
Employment Trends, San Joaquin County
| Employment 1999 |
100 |
| Projected Employment 2006 |
120 |
| Percent Change 1999-2006 |
20% |
| Separations 1999-2006 |
10 |
Employment Trends by California County
Advancement
Trainee technicians can expect a change in pay and status with additional education and experience. Registered technicians can advance to supervisory positions at larger private establishments and in civil service. Technicians in research laboratories may become research scientist assistants.
Getting the Job & Other Information
Jobseekers should apply directly to research centers, veterinarians, animal hospitals, pharmaceutical manufacturers and medical schools. Government positions are filled through success in written and oral examinations given by the city and county personnel divisions or the California State Personnel Board. College careers centers get information about job openings directly from employers. Some companies send recruitment officers to campuses who hire students for both part time and permanent jobs.
Jobseekers may also want to inquire with the following agencies for more information:
- Veterinary Medical Board, Registered Veterinary Technician Committee 1420 Howe Avenue, Suite 6 Sacramento, CA 95825 3228 (916) 263-2613
- California Veterinary Medical Association 5231 Madison Ave. Sacramento, CA 95841 (916) 344-4985
- Southern California Veterinary Medical Association 8338 S. Rosemead Blvd. Pico Rivera, CA 90660 (310) 948-4979
- American Veterinary Medical Association 1931 N. Meacham Road, Suite 100 Schaumburg, IL 60173-4360 (847) 925-8070 Fax (708) 330-2862 www.avma.org
For current job listings, browse CalJOBS or America's Job Bank. |
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There are several routes by which an applicant may be eligible to qualify for the Veterinary Technician registration exam. Graduation from an approved school is the primary route. A certificate program that usually takes a year to complete is offered by some private schools and community colleges. A two-year degree program is also available in many community colleges. Training programs include both academic and clinical instruction.
Skills & Other Requirements
Personal characteristics necessary for success in the job include a keen interest in animals, the ability to communicate well, and aptitudes to learn and independently apply techniques and methods of examination and treatment of animals.
References
California Occupational Guide: #402
Related Occupations: Dental Assistants, Veterinarians & Veterinary Inspectors
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