Veterinary Technician

VCA Animal Hospitals • Walnut Creek, CA

6d • Onsite

About The Position

VCA Encina Animal Medical Center is hiring an experienced Registered Veterinary Technician (RVT) for its Outpatient Department at its 24/7 emergency, specialty, and general practice veterinary hospital in Walnut Creek, California. The department handles a diverse range of cases and works with veterinarians, Veterinary Assistants, and other departments to provide timely, compassionate care. The role offers exposure to emergency medicine, specialty care, and general practice in a fast-paced environment. Newer RVTs may also be considered if they bring a strong work ethic, a positive attitude, sound foundational skills, and eagerness to learn.

The schedule is full-time, Sunday, Monday, Thursday, and Friday. Compensation is $35–$40 per hour. The position includes triage support, outpatient specialty and general practice care, assistance with emergency procedures and occasionally urgent surgery, diagnostic imaging, and patient monitoring. The technician also contributes to patient flow, teamwork, and maintaining a clean, safe, and stocked department.

VCA offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes health coverage, paid leave, retirement savings, professional development, and employee pet-care discounts, among other programs. The job description notes that duties may change based on operational circumstances and that VCA is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Requirements

• Current Registered Veterinary Technician (RVT) licensure.
• Strong foundation in patient care, animal handling, and technical nursing skills.
• Ability to prioritize tasks, adapt to changing circumstances, and remain composed under pressure.
• Strong communication skills and a collaborative, team-first mindset.
• Commitment to patient safety, compassionate care, and high-quality medicine.
• Curiosity, initiative, and desire to continue learning and developing professionally.
• Newer RVTs may be considered if they demonstrate a strong work ethic, positive attitude, sound foundational skills, and willingness to learn in a fast-paced environment.

Nice To Haves

• At least one year of veterinary experience is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Assist with triaging incoming patients by obtaining vital signs and histories, recognizing changes in patient status, and promptly communicating concerns to the medical team.
• Support specialty appointments, treatments, diagnostics, and follow-up care across a variety of services.
• Support general practice doctors and patients with routine treatments and diagnostics.
• Assist with emergency sedation procedures, patient preparation, monitoring, and recovery.
• Obtain hands-free radiographs using appropriate positioning aids and established radiation-safety protocols.
• Occasionally assist surgical and emergency teams during urgent procedures as patient needs arise.
• Safely and compassionately handle and monitor stable outpatient, urgent, and critically ill patients.
• Collaborate with RVTs, Veterinary Assistants, veterinarians, and other departments to support efficient patient flow and high standards of care.
• Maintain a clean, safe, and well-stocked environment while balancing multiple priorities.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance, with HSA/FSA options.
• Fertility benefits.
• Paid vacation, sick, parental, and bereavement leave.
• Employer-paid short-term and long-term disability coverage.
• Access to the Better Together Fund for crisis support in qualifying situations.
• Rabies prophylaxis vaccine and titer testing.
• Continuing Education allowance for veterinarians and credentialed veterinary technicians.
• Access to WOOF University®, including RACE-approved courses.
• Access to the latest technology and innovation programs, including VCA Next.
• Penn Foster and VTNE test-prep sponsorships and VTNE prep courses.
• Discounted Low-Stress Handling, Fear Free, and AAFP Cat-Friendly certifications, plus VETGirl and VIN subscriptions.
• Free NAVTA membership and Plumb’s subscription.
• Leadership development and mentorship programs.
• 401(k) retirement savings plan with increasing employer contribution.
• Employer-paid professional liability coverage and life insurance coverage equal to one year’s salary.
• Generous pet-care discounts and VIP programs.
• Student loan advisory services, tools, and resources.
• Access to legal resources for common legal services.
• Nationwide hospital transfer opportunities.
• Competitive compensation.
• Mental health support through Lyra, including up to 12 therapy sessions per year, guided self-care, and meditation resources.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: No Education Listed