Veterinary Assistant Salary in San Diego, CA
How much does a Veterinary Assistant make in San Diego, CA?
A Veterinary Assistant in San Diego, CA, can expect to earn a competitive salary. On average, these professionals make around $41,740 per year. This figure can vary based on experience, education, and the specific employer. Many Veterinary Assistants start on the lower end of the salary range, around $34,000, and can advance to higher salaries with more experience.
Several factors can influence a Veterinary Assistant's salary in San Diego. Those with additional certifications or specialized skills often earn more. Working in a larger animal hospital or a specialized veterinary clinic can also lead to higher earnings. Job seekers should consider these factors when looking for opportunities in the field.
What are the highest paying cities for a Veterinary Assistant near San Diego, CA?

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Chula Vista, CA
Average Salary: $42,228
In Chula Vista, you can find rewarding work with local animal clinics. The area offers many opportunities to gain experience with a variety of pets. Companies like PetSmart and Banfield Pet Hospital provide excellent training and career growth.
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La Jolla, CA
Average Salary: $42,143
La Jolla offers a vibrant community with many pet-friendly residents. Working here means you will be part of a caring environment. Local clinics such as La Jolla Veterinary Hospital are known for their quality care and support for their staff.
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Lemon Grove, CA
Average Salary: $41,030
Lemon Grove provides a close-knit community where you can make a real difference in pets' lives. The area has several small, family-owned clinics that offer a warm and supportive work environment. You can build strong relationships with clients and their pets.
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Del Mar, CA
Average Salary: $40,633
In Del Mar, you can enjoy a peaceful setting with a focus on high-quality care. Working here means you will be part of a team that values both pets and people. Local practices like Del Mar Veterinary Hospital offer excellent benefits and opportunities for professional development.
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Imperial Beach, CA
Average Salary: $40,500
Imperial Beach offers a coastal charm with a strong community spirit. Here, you can work in a friendly and supportive environment. Local clinics such as Imperial Beach Animal Clinic provide a great place to learn and grow in your career.
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Solana Beach, CA
Average Salary: $40,491
Solana Beach provides a beautiful setting with a focus on animal wellness. Working here means you will be part of a team that cares deeply about pets and their owners. Local practices like Solana Beach Veterinary Clinic offer a supportive and educational work environment.
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La Mesa, CA
Average Salary: $40,161
La Mesa offers a welcoming community with many opportunities for animal care professionals. Here, you can work in a variety of settings, from small clinics to larger animal hospitals. Companies like Petco and local veterinary practices provide excellent career growth opportunities.
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Rancho Santa Fe, CA
Average Salary: $39,462
Rancho Santa Fe provides a luxurious setting with a focus on high-end pet care. Working here means you will be part of a team that offers top-notch services. Local clinics such as Rancho Santa Fe Veterinary Clinic provide excellent training and support for their staff.
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Santee, CA
Average Salary: $38,937
Santee offers a growing community with many opportunities for animal care professionals. Here, you can work in a supportive and dynamic environment. Local clinics such as Santee Veterinary Clinic provide a great place to learn and grow in your career.
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Poway, CA
Average Salary: $38,844
Poway provides a vibrant community with many opportunities for animal care. Working here means you will be part of a team that cares deeply about pets and their owners. Local practices like Poway Veterinary Clinic offer excellent benefits and opportunities for professional development.
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What are the best paying companies for a Veterinary Assistant in San Diego, CA?

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VCA Animal Hospitals
Average Salary: $44,119
VCA Animal Hospitals offers Veterinary Assistant jobs with competitive salaries. They operate multiple locations in San Diego, providing comprehensive care for pets. Their facilities are well-equipped, and they offer opportunities for professional growth.
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Colony Veterinary Hospital
Average Salary: $43,000
Colony Veterinary Hospital provides Veterinary Assistant positions with a good salary. They have several locations in San Diego, focusing on high-quality care for pets. The company values teamwork and offers a supportive work environment.
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Petco
Average Salary: $42,690
Petco offers Veterinary Assistant jobs with a solid salary. They have numerous stores across San Diego, providing a variety of pet care services. Working at Petco means being part of a large, well-known company with many opportunities for advancement.
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Amerivet
Average Salary: $41,860
Amerivet provides Veterinary Assistant positions with a competitive salary. They operate multiple clinics in San Diego, offering a range of veterinary services. The company emphasizes a family-like atmosphere and professional development.
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Ethos Veterinary Health
Average Salary: $41,167
Ethos Veterinary Health offers Veterinary Assistant jobs with a good salary. They have several locations in San Diego, known for their high standards of care. The company provides a supportive environment and opportunities for career growth.
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PetVet Care Centers
Average Salary: $40,467
PetVet Care Centers provides Veterinary Assistant positions with a solid salary. They operate multiple clinics in San Diego, focusing on quality pet care. The company offers a collaborative work environment and chances for professional development.
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American Animal Hospital
Average Salary: $40,133
American Animal Hospital offers Veterinary Assistant jobs with a good salary. They have several locations in San Diego, offering a range of veterinary services. The company values teamwork and provides a supportive work environment.
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Bodhi Animal Hospital
Average Salary: $39,667
Bodhi Animal Hospital provides Veterinary Assistant positions with a competitive salary. They have multiple locations in San Diego, focusing on holistic pet care. The company offers a friendly work environment and opportunities for professional growth.
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San Diego Humane Society
Average Salary: $39,652
San Diego Humane Society offers Veterinary Assistant jobs with a good salary. They operate several locations in San Diego, dedicated to animal welfare. The company provides a supportive environment and chances for career advancement.
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Destination Pet, LLC
Average Salary: $39,464
Destination Pet, LLC provides Veterinary Assistant positions with a solid salary. They have several locations in San Diego, offering a range of pet care services. The company emphasizes a team-oriented approach and professional development.
What are the best paying Veterinary Assistant related jobs in San Diego, CA?

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Clinic MD Associate
Average Salary: $213,900
This role involves working closely with veterinarians to provide top-notch care for animals. You will assist with exams, treatments, and surgeries. Companies like PetSmart and Banfield Pet Hospital offer great opportunities in this field.
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Blood Bank Worker
Average Salary: $115,000
In this position, you will handle blood samples and ensure they are properly stored and processed. This job is crucial for emergency treatments and surgeries. Local hospitals such as Scripps Health and UC San Diego Health have openings for dedicated workers.
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Veterinary Surgical Specialist
Average Salary: $110,000
Specializing in surgeries, this role involves preparing animals for operations and assisting during procedures. You will work in a fast-paced environment, ensuring the best care for patients. Companies like VCA Animal Hospitals and BluePearl Pet Hospital are hiring.
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Water Reuse Program Manager
Average Salary: $110,000
This role focuses on managing water resources to ensure sustainability. You will work with local government and environmental agencies to implement water reuse programs. The City of San Diego and San Diego County Water Authority are key employers.
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Medical Assisting Instructor
Average Salary: $99,840
Teaching future medical assistants, you will prepare students for careers in healthcare. This role involves creating lesson plans and providing hands-on training. Institutions like San Diego Miramar College and Grossmont College are looking for qualified instructors.
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Sterile Process Coordinator
Average Salary: $97,250
Ensuring all medical equipment is properly sterilized, you will maintain high standards of hygiene. This job is vital for preventing infections in healthcare settings. Companies like Sharp HealthCare and Kaiser Permanente offer positions in this field.
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Wildlife Biologist
Average Salary: $91,275
Studying animal populations and their habitats, you will collect data and develop conservation strategies. This role is important for protecting local wildlife. Organizations like the San Diego Zoo and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service are hiring.
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Lab Liaison Technician
Average Salary: $76,500
Coordinating between laboratories and healthcare providers, you will ensure accurate and timely test results. This job is crucial for patient care and diagnosis. Local hospitals like Scripps Health and UC San Diego Health need skilled technicians.
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Pharmacy Cashier
Average Salary: $70,854
Helping customers with their prescriptions, you will manage transactions and provide excellent customer service. This role is essential for ensuring patients receive their medications. Pharmacies like CVS and Walgreens are hiring.
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Dental Office Manager
Average Salary: $68,624
Managing daily operations of a dental clinic, you will oversee staff and ensure smooth patient care. This role is vital for the efficiency and success of the practice. Companies like Smile Brands and Aspen Dental are looking for experienced managers.
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