Veterinarian Visa Sponsorship Jobs in California
California has one of the largest veterinary job markets in the U.S., with demand concentrated in the Los Angeles metro, San Francisco Bay Area, and San Diego. Large employers include VCA Animal Hospitals, Banfield Pet Hospital, and UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine. International veterinarians with NAVLE licensure and specialty credentials are actively recruited across the state.
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Get Access To All JobsINTRODUCTION
Reporting to Associate Director of Veterinary Resources and under general direction, provide all aspects of veterinary health care. This includes preventive medical care, surgery, diagnostic imaging, pharmacology, anesthesia, routine animal care, and emergency and critical care. Tasks include physical exam, diagnosis, treatment planning, and monitoring of progress of animals on treatment.
ROLE AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Duties include:
- Manage and oversee Hospitals (SPF/PDG/Conventional) and coordinate workflow and supervision of assigned Animal Health Technicians (AHTs) with AHT Supervisor, including performance management, addressing their questions, providing any needed clinical support or technical training of care procedures, protocols, and making sure all of work is completed in accordance with NBRI Animal Healthcare standards, regulatory requirements, and internal standard operating procedures.
- Evaluate complex metabolic cases such as diabetics, water restricted animals, kidney transplants, etc., as necessary.
- Perform all clinical procedures including laceration repair and treatment of trauma, fluid therapy, reproductive assessments, diagnostics (ultrasound, radiology, and clinical lab result assessments), clinical surgery and orthopedic surgery (internal fixation of fracture), etc.
- File and document laboratory results and provide documentation and maintenance of medical records and long-term outpatient records (particularly for outdoor animals on long-term treatments and monitoring).
- Provide onsite shift hours and on call hour coverage as well as participate in research support activities.
- Review records for non-breeders as required by Research Services.
- Write shift and case management summaries of both planned and unanticipated activities that occur during weekend/holiday shifts.
- Provide veterinary support services to research investigators, collaborating with research investigators in scientific research in the design, implementation, interpretation and communication of research projects.
- Perform management-related tasks under the general direction of senior veterinary staff.
- Provide and maintain web-based surgical training modules for visiting surgeons and surgeon’s assistants.
- Provide support and training to students, visiting veterinarians, UCD residents, rotating Laboratory Animal Medicine residents, and clinical veterinary technicians in all aspects of primate medicine.
- Oversee assigned pre-project/pre-shipment physical exams; review management areas and their cases (i.e., 20% weight loss, prolonged menses, chronic diarrhea, diet manipulation, etc.).
- The incumbent in this position has management responsibilities of the Hospitals (Conventional, PDG and SPF) and Surgery as well as actively participates in research support procedures and experimental surgeries.
- Provide general support to the Center by reviewing IACUC protocols; providing input to and creating policies, guidelines, and algorithms; creating and editing standard operating procedures as needed; and managing the Center's controlled substance inventory.
- Participate in various Management Committees and Groups including the Relocation Committee, BMBC group on fracture management, and specific laboratory meetings.
- Collaborate with veterinarians and investigators at other Primate Centers as applicable.
BASIC QUALIFICATIONS
Minimum Qualifications - For full consideration, applicants are encouraged to upload license and/or certification if required of the position
- Board certification by the American College of Laboratory Animal Medicine, or eligibility to take the ACLAM board exam.
- Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree (DVM) from a recognized and accredited school of veterinary medicine. Licensed DVM in the state of California (or able to attain a CA license within 6 months from date of hire).
- Experience in medical primatology as it applies to the diagnosis, surgical procedures, and medical treatment of nonhuman primates.
- Experience in preventive medicine programs required for laboratory housed non-human primates, including vaccination, parasitology, bacteriology, and virology screening programs.
- Experience in primate clinical service support to Principal Investigators including participation in experimental research designs and clinical animal protocol development and consultation, and laboratory animal medicine directed activities.
- Professional knowledge of humane care and housing of nonhuman primates with understanding of standards and guidelines as established by the American Association for Accreditation of Laboratory Animal Care (AAALAC) and USDA regulatory standards for nonhuman primates.
- Professional level skills and knowledge to address sensitive issues associated with the use of laboratory animals such as non-human primates in biomedical and translational research.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
- Applied experience of institutional, local, state, national and international rules and regulations governing the use and care of nonhuman primates (USDA Animal Welfare Act, ILAR Guide for the Care and Use of Laboratory Animals, Endangered Species Act, FDA Good Laboratory Practice Regulations, and California Public Health Law).
- Experience in investigator project support including participation in experimental protocols, research design and laboratory-directed activities.
- Skills to work with large and small non-human primates.
- Knowledge of gross necropsy procedures and basic histopathology of the nonhuman primates.
- Skill to teach in a classroom situation, seminar format, and on a one-to-one basis.
- Skill to conduct presentations at national and international specialty meetings.
- Communication, interpersonal and organizational skills to interact with a wide variety of individuals.
- Independent thinking and problem-solving skills for research and technical problems.
- Skill to provide effective leadership.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
- 35% - Colony Clinical Care & Case Management
- 35% - Clinical Research Support & Care
- 20% - Area Management
- 10% - Clinical Training & Development
DEPARTMENT OVERVIEW
The National Biomedical Research Institute, NBRI at UC Davis, is an Organized Research Unit that conducts interdisciplinary research programs on significant human health problems where non-human primates is the animal research model of choice. In addition to its major efforts in the area of research, the NBRI is also committed to both UC Davis and NIH missions of teaching and service. The Professional Veterinary staff in the Department of Primate Medicine is responsible for providing veterinary medical care management for in-patient and outpatient areas supporting colony health of 5,000+ non-human primates housed indoors and in outdoor enclosures. Primate Medicine is committed to fostering an environment that promotes quality clinical and medical health care through teamwork, cooperation, and collaboration by building professional relationships with clinicians, Principal Investigators, trainees and students and staff. This is a shared responsibility where all Staff Veterinarians are mission critical in supporting colony health management and provide high quality research clinical support services to Principal Investigators in primatology and laboratory clinical medicine. Primate Medicine's primary goals are to accomplish the NBRI's mission: Provide quality clinical health and medical care of colony nonhuman primates. Pursue cutting edge and innovation in clinical primatology research and laboratory animal science and medicine. Provide quality service in clinical and research support to Principal Investigators and their research programs. Teach and provide dyadic training in clinical primatology and medicine (and surgery) to veterinary students, residents, externs (visiting veterinarians and faculty), and Animal Health Technicians.
POSITION INFORMATION
- Salary or Pay Range: $114,700/yr. - $236,700/yr.
- Salary Frequency: Annual
- Salary Grade: Grade 26
- UC Job Title: VETERINARIAN 3
- UC Job Code: 000353
- Appointment Type: Staff: Career
- Percentage of Time: 100%
- Shift (Work Schedule): Manager will advise
- Location: Davis, CA
- Union Representation: 99 - Non-Represented (PPSM)
- Benefits Eligible: Yes
- This position is 100% on-site
BENEFITS
Outstanding benefits and perks are among the many rewards of working for the University of California. UC Davis offers a full range of benefits, resources and programs to help you bring your best self to work, as well as to help you and your family achieve your health, wellness, financial and career goals. Learn more about the benefits below and eligibility by visiting UCnet Benefits Page or Benefits Summary for UC Davis Health Employees or Benefits Summary for UC Davis Employees.
- High quality and low-cost medical plans to choose from to fit your family's needs
- UC pays for dental and vision coverage for you and your family
- Retirement plans for eligible employees including Pension and other Retirement Saving Plans
- Supplemental insurance offered including additional life, short/long term disability, pet insurance, legal coverage, accident, critical illness and hospital indemnity
- Pregnancy and Parental Leave, Family & Medical Leave, Adoption Assistance and Pay for Family Care and Bonding for eligible employees
- Lactation Support Program and Family Care discounts and resources
- Employee Well-being resources and programming to support thriving in all aspects of employee’s lives
- On-site Employee Assistance Program including access to free mental health services
- Generous amount of paid Holidays annually as outlined in the UC Policies or Collective Bargaining Agreements
- Paid Time Off/Vacation/Sick Time as outlined in the UC Policies or Collective Bargaining Agreements
- Continuing Education (CE) allowance and Staff Education Reimbursement Program for eligible employees
- Access to free professional development courses and learning opportunities for personal and professional growth
- Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) Qualified Employer and Student Loan Debt Counseling Program for eligible employees
PHYSICAL DEMANDS
- Standing - Continuous 6 to 8+ Hours
- Walking - Continuous 6 to 8+ Hours
- Sitting - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
- Lifting/Carrying 0-25 Lbs - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
- Lifting/Carrying 26-50 lbs - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
- Lifting/Carrying over 50 lbs - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
- Pushing/Pulling 0-25 Lbs - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
- Pushing/Pulling 26-50 lbs - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
- Pushing/Pulling over 50 lbs - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
- Bending/Stooping - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
- Squatting/Kneeling - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
- Twisting - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
- Climbing (e.g., stairs or ladders) - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
- Reaching overhead - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
- Keyboard use/repetitive motion - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
ENVIRONMENTAL DEMANDS
- Chemicals, dust, gases, or fumes - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
- Loud noise levels - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
- Marked changes in humidity or temperature - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
- Microwave/Radiation - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
- Operating motor vehicles and/or equipment - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
- Extreme Temperatures - Never 0 Hours
- Uneven Surfaces or Elevations - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
MENTAL DEMANDS
- Sustained attention and concentration - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
- Complex problem solving/reasoning - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
- Ability to organize & prioritize - Continuous 6 to 8+ Hours
- Communication skills - Continuous 6 to 8+ Hours
- Numerical skills - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
- Constant Interaction - Continuous 6 to 8+ Hours
- Customer/Patient Contact - Continuous 6 to 8+ Hours
- Multiple Concurrent Tasks - Continuous 6 to 8+ Hours
WORK ENVIRONMENT
UC Davis is a smoke and tobacco free campus effective January 1, 2014. Smoking, the use of smokeless tobacco products, and the use of unregulated nicotine products (e-cigarettes) will be strictly prohibited on any UC Davis owned or leased property, indoors and outdoors, including parking lots and residential space.
Staff Veterinarians provide health care services to nonhuman primates housed in 407,148 square feet in BSL 1-3 animal spaces that include indoor housing, outdoor field corrals, outdoor corn crib housing, inhalation therapy, and animal testing space.
SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS – Please contact your recruiter with questions regarding which activities apply by position
This is a critical position, as defined by UC Policy and local procedures, and as such, employment is contingent upon clearing a criminal background check(s) and may include drug screening, medical evaluation clearance and functional capacity assessment.
Misconduct Disclosure Requirement: As a condition of employment, the final candidate who accepts a conditional offer of employment will be required to disclose if they have been subject to any final administrative or judicial decisions within the last seven years determining that they committed any misconduct; received notice of any allegations or are currently the subject of any administrative or disciplinary proceedings involving misconduct; have left a position after receiving notice of allegations or while under investigation in an administrative or disciplinary proceeding involving misconduct; or have filed an appeal of a finding of misconduct with a previous employer.
A CULTURE OF OPPORTUNITY AND BELONGING
At UC Davis, we’re committed to solving life’s most urgent challenges and building a healthier, more resilient world. We believe in growing through every challenge, continually striving to improve, and welcoming new perspectives that strengthen our community. We recognize that a vibrant and innovative organization values both individual strengths and shared purpose. The best ideas often emerge when people with different experiences come together.
As you consider joining UC Davis, we invite you to explore our Principles of Community, our Clinical Strategic Plan and strategic vision for research and education. We believe you belong here. The University of California, Davis is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age or protected veteran status.
To view the University of California’s Anti-Discrimination Policy, please visit: https://policy.ucop.edu/doc/1001004/Anti-Discrimination
Because we want you to feel seen and valued, our recruitment process at UC Davis supports openness and authenticity. Research shows that some individuals hesitate to apply unless they meet every qualification. You may be an excellent fit for this role—or the next one. We encourage you to apply even if your experience doesn't match every listed requirement. #YouBelongHere
To learn more about our background check program, please visit: https://hr.ucdavis.edu/departments/recruitment/ucd/selection/background-checks
APPLY BY DATE
November 5, 2026 at 11:59pm
INTRODUCTION
Reporting to Associate Director of Veterinary Resources and under general direction, provide all aspects of veterinary health care. This includes preventive medical care, surgery, diagnostic imaging, pharmacology, anesthesia, routine animal care, and emergency and critical care. Tasks include physical exam, diagnosis, treatment planning, and monitoring of progress of animals on treatment.
ROLE AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Duties include:
- Manage and oversee Hospitals (SPF/PDG/Conventional) and coordinate workflow and supervision of assigned Animal Health Technicians (AHTs) with AHT Supervisor, including performance management, addressing their questions, providing any needed clinical support or technical training of care procedures, protocols, and making sure all of work is completed in accordance with NBRI Animal Healthcare standards, regulatory requirements, and internal standard operating procedures.
- Evaluate complex metabolic cases such as diabetics, water restricted animals, kidney transplants, etc., as necessary.
- Perform all clinical procedures including laceration repair and treatment of trauma, fluid therapy, reproductive assessments, diagnostics (ultrasound, radiology, and clinical lab result assessments), clinical surgery and orthopedic surgery (internal fixation of fracture), etc.
- File and document laboratory results and provide documentation and maintenance of medical records and long-term outpatient records (particularly for outdoor animals on long-term treatments and monitoring).
- Provide onsite shift hours and on call hour coverage as well as participate in research support activities.
- Review records for non-breeders as required by Research Services.
- Write shift and case management summaries of both planned and unanticipated activities that occur during weekend/holiday shifts.
- Provide veterinary support services to research investigators, collaborating with research investigators in scientific research in the design, implementation, interpretation and communication of research projects.
- Perform management-related tasks under the general direction of senior veterinary staff.
- Provide and maintain web-based surgical training modules for visiting surgeons and surgeon’s assistants.
- Provide support and training to students, visiting veterinarians, UCD residents, rotating Laboratory Animal Medicine residents, and clinical veterinary technicians in all aspects of primate medicine.
- Oversee assigned pre-project/pre-shipment physical exams; review management areas and their cases (i.e., 20% weight loss, prolonged menses, chronic diarrhea, diet manipulation, etc.).
- The incumbent in this position has management responsibilities of the Hospitals (Conventional, PDG and SPF) and Surgery as well as actively participates in research support procedures and experimental surgeries.
- Provide general support to the Center by reviewing IACUC protocols; providing input to and creating policies, guidelines, and algorithms; creating and editing standard operating procedures as needed; and managing the Center's controlled substance inventory.
- Participate in various Management Committees and Groups including the Relocation Committee, BMBC group on fracture management, and specific laboratory meetings.
- Collaborate with veterinarians and investigators at other Primate Centers as applicable.
BASIC QUALIFICATIONS
Minimum Qualifications - For full consideration, applicants are encouraged to upload license and/or certification if required of the position
- Board certification by the American College of Laboratory Animal Medicine, or eligibility to take the ACLAM board exam.
- Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree (DVM) from a recognized and accredited school of veterinary medicine. Licensed DVM in the state of California (or able to attain a CA license within 6 months from date of hire).
- Experience in medical primatology as it applies to the diagnosis, surgical procedures, and medical treatment of nonhuman primates.
- Experience in preventive medicine programs required for laboratory housed non-human primates, including vaccination, parasitology, bacteriology, and virology screening programs.
- Experience in primate clinical service support to Principal Investigators including participation in experimental research designs and clinical animal protocol development and consultation, and laboratory animal medicine directed activities.
- Professional knowledge of humane care and housing of nonhuman primates with understanding of standards and guidelines as established by the American Association for Accreditation of Laboratory Animal Care (AAALAC) and USDA regulatory standards for nonhuman primates.
- Professional level skills and knowledge to address sensitive issues associated with the use of laboratory animals such as non-human primates in biomedical and translational research.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
- Applied experience of institutional, local, state, national and international rules and regulations governing the use and care of nonhuman primates (USDA Animal Welfare Act, ILAR Guide for the Care and Use of Laboratory Animals, Endangered Species Act, FDA Good Laboratory Practice Regulations, and California Public Health Law).
- Experience in investigator project support including participation in experimental protocols, research design and laboratory-directed activities.
- Skills to work with large and small non-human primates.
- Knowledge of gross necropsy procedures and basic histopathology of the nonhuman primates.
- Skill to teach in a classroom situation, seminar format, and on a one-to-one basis.
- Skill to conduct presentations at national and international specialty meetings.
- Communication, interpersonal and organizational skills to interact with a wide variety of individuals.
- Independent thinking and problem-solving skills for research and technical problems.
- Skill to provide effective leadership.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
- 35% - Colony Clinical Care & Case Management
- 35% - Clinical Research Support & Care
- 20% - Area Management
- 10% - Clinical Training & Development
DEPARTMENT OVERVIEW
The National Biomedical Research Institute, NBRI at UC Davis, is an Organized Research Unit that conducts interdisciplinary research programs on significant human health problems where non-human primates is the animal research model of choice. In addition to its major efforts in the area of research, the NBRI is also committed to both UC Davis and NIH missions of teaching and service. The Professional Veterinary staff in the Department of Primate Medicine is responsible for providing veterinary medical care management for in-patient and outpatient areas supporting colony health of 5,000+ non-human primates housed indoors and in outdoor enclosures. Primate Medicine is committed to fostering an environment that promotes quality clinical and medical health care through teamwork, cooperation, and collaboration by building professional relationships with clinicians, Principal Investigators, trainees and students and staff. This is a shared responsibility where all Staff Veterinarians are mission critical in supporting colony health management and provide high quality research clinical support services to Principal Investigators in primatology and laboratory clinical medicine. Primate Medicine's primary goals are to accomplish the NBRI's mission: Provide quality clinical health and medical care of colony nonhuman primates. Pursue cutting edge and innovation in clinical primatology research and laboratory animal science and medicine. Provide quality service in clinical and research support to Principal Investigators and their research programs. Teach and provide dyadic training in clinical primatology and medicine (and surgery) to veterinary students, residents, externs (visiting veterinarians and faculty), and Animal Health Technicians.
POSITION INFORMATION
- Salary or Pay Range: $114,700/yr. - $236,700/yr.
- Salary Frequency: Annual
- Salary Grade: Grade 26
- UC Job Title: VETERINARIAN 3
- UC Job Code: 000353
- Appointment Type: Staff: Career
- Percentage of Time: 100%
- Shift (Work Schedule): Manager will advise
- Location: Davis, CA
- Union Representation: 99 - Non-Represented (PPSM)
- Benefits Eligible: Yes
- This position is 100% on-site
BENEFITS
Outstanding benefits and perks are among the many rewards of working for the University of California. UC Davis offers a full range of benefits, resources and programs to help you bring your best self to work, as well as to help you and your family achieve your health, wellness, financial and career goals. Learn more about the benefits below and eligibility by visiting UCnet Benefits Page or Benefits Summary for UC Davis Health Employees or Benefits Summary for UC Davis Employees.
- High quality and low-cost medical plans to choose from to fit your family's needs
- UC pays for dental and vision coverage for you and your family
- Retirement plans for eligible employees including Pension and other Retirement Saving Plans
- Supplemental insurance offered including additional life, short/long term disability, pet insurance, legal coverage, accident, critical illness and hospital indemnity
- Pregnancy and Parental Leave, Family & Medical Leave, Adoption Assistance and Pay for Family Care and Bonding for eligible employees
- Lactation Support Program and Family Care discounts and resources
- Employee Well-being resources and programming to support thriving in all aspects of employee’s lives
- On-site Employee Assistance Program including access to free mental health services
- Generous amount of paid Holidays annually as outlined in the UC Policies or Collective Bargaining Agreements
- Paid Time Off/Vacation/Sick Time as outlined in the UC Policies or Collective Bargaining Agreements
- Continuing Education (CE) allowance and Staff Education Reimbursement Program for eligible employees
- Access to free professional development courses and learning opportunities for personal and professional growth
- Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) Qualified Employer and Student Loan Debt Counseling Program for eligible employees
PHYSICAL DEMANDS
- Standing - Continuous 6 to 8+ Hours
- Walking - Continuous 6 to 8+ Hours
- Sitting - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
- Lifting/Carrying 0-25 Lbs - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
- Lifting/Carrying 26-50 lbs - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
- Lifting/Carrying over 50 lbs - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
- Pushing/Pulling 0-25 Lbs - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
- Pushing/Pulling 26-50 lbs - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
- Pushing/Pulling over 50 lbs - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
- Bending/Stooping - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
- Squatting/Kneeling - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
- Twisting - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
- Climbing (e.g., stairs or ladders) - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
- Reaching overhead - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
- Keyboard use/repetitive motion - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
ENVIRONMENTAL DEMANDS
- Chemicals, dust, gases, or fumes - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
- Loud noise levels - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
- Marked changes in humidity or temperature - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
- Microwave/Radiation - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
- Operating motor vehicles and/or equipment - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
- Extreme Temperatures - Never 0 Hours
- Uneven Surfaces or Elevations - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
MENTAL DEMANDS
- Sustained attention and concentration - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
- Complex problem solving/reasoning - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
- Ability to organize & prioritize - Continuous 6 to 8+ Hours
- Communication skills - Continuous 6 to 8+ Hours
- Numerical skills - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
- Constant Interaction - Continuous 6 to 8+ Hours
- Customer/Patient Contact - Continuous 6 to 8+ Hours
- Multiple Concurrent Tasks - Continuous 6 to 8+ Hours
WORK ENVIRONMENT
UC Davis is a smoke and tobacco free campus effective January 1, 2014. Smoking, the use of smokeless tobacco products, and the use of unregulated nicotine products (e-cigarettes) will be strictly prohibited on any UC Davis owned or leased property, indoors and outdoors, including parking lots and residential space.
Staff Veterinarians provide health care services to nonhuman primates housed in 407,148 square feet in BSL 1-3 animal spaces that include indoor housing, outdoor field corrals, outdoor corn crib housing, inhalation therapy, and animal testing space.
SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS – Please contact your recruiter with questions regarding which activities apply by position
This is a critical position, as defined by UC Policy and local procedures, and as such, employment is contingent upon clearing a criminal background check(s) and may include drug screening, medical evaluation clearance and functional capacity assessment.
Misconduct Disclosure Requirement: As a condition of employment, the final candidate who accepts a conditional offer of employment will be required to disclose if they have been subject to any final administrative or judicial decisions within the last seven years determining that they committed any misconduct; received notice of any allegations or are currently the subject of any administrative or disciplinary proceedings involving misconduct; have left a position after receiving notice of allegations or while under investigation in an administrative or disciplinary proceeding involving misconduct; or have filed an appeal of a finding of misconduct with a previous employer.
A CULTURE OF OPPORTUNITY AND BELONGING
At UC Davis, we’re committed to solving life’s most urgent challenges and building a healthier, more resilient world. We believe in growing through every challenge, continually striving to improve, and welcoming new perspectives that strengthen our community. We recognize that a vibrant and innovative organization values both individual strengths and shared purpose. The best ideas often emerge when people with different experiences come together.
As you consider joining UC Davis, we invite you to explore our Principles of Community, our Clinical Strategic Plan and strategic vision for research and education. We believe you belong here. The University of California, Davis is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age or protected veteran status.
To view the University of California’s Anti-Discrimination Policy, please visit: https://policy.ucop.edu/doc/1001004/Anti-Discrimination
Because we want you to feel seen and valued, our recruitment process at UC Davis supports openness and authenticity. Research shows that some individuals hesitate to apply unless they meet every qualification. You may be an excellent fit for this role—or the next one. We encourage you to apply even if your experience doesn't match every listed requirement. #YouBelongHere
To learn more about our background check program, please visit: https://hr.ucdavis.edu/departments/recruitment/ucd/selection/background-checks
APPLY BY DATE
November 5, 2026 at 11:59pm
Veterinarian Job Roles in California
See all 210+ Veterinarian Jobs in California
Sign up for free to filter by visa type, set job alerts, and find employers with verified sponsorship history.
Search Veterinarian Jobs in CaliforniaVeterinarian Jobs in California: Frequently Asked Questions
Which companies sponsor visas for veterinarians in California?
Corporate veterinary groups with a significant California presence, including VCA Animal Hospitals and Banfield Pet Hospital, have sponsored H-1B visas for veterinarians. Academic and research institutions such as UC Davis and UC San Diego also sponsor international veterinary professionals for clinical and research roles. Government agencies, including the USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, have similarly filed for veterinarian sponsorship in California.
Which visa types are most common for veterinarian roles in California?
The H-1B is the most common visa category for veterinarians in California, as the role typically qualifies as a specialty occupation requiring at minimum a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree. Some public health and research veterinarian positions at universities may be eligible for cap-exempt H-1B petitions. Foreign nationals from Australia and Chile may also qualify for the E-3 visa or H-1B1 visa categories respectively, depending on citizenship.
Which cities in California have the most veterinarian sponsorship jobs?
Los Angeles and the surrounding metro area consistently post the highest volume of veterinarian openings due to its large pet-owning population and concentration of corporate veterinary groups. The San Francisco Bay Area and Sacramento see strong demand as well, particularly for specialty and emergency veterinarians. Davis is notable as home to UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine, which generates both academic and clinical veterinary employment.
How to find veterinarian visa sponsorship jobs in California?
Migrate Mate aggregates veterinarian roles in California that include visa sponsorship, making it easier to filter out positions where sponsorship is not offered. You can browse by specialty, employer type, and location across the state. Because sponsorship willingness varies significantly between independent practices and corporate groups, using Migrate Mate to focus specifically on confirmed sponsoring employers saves considerable time in your search.
Are there any California-specific considerations for veterinarians seeking visa sponsorship?
California requires veterinary licensure through the California Veterinary Medical Board, and international graduates must pass the NAVLE and meet state-specific requirements before practicing. The prevailing wage for sponsored veterinarians in California is determined by the Department of Labor based on the specific county and job level, and wages in the Bay Area and Los Angeles tend to be benchmarked higher than national averages. UC Davis also serves as a significant pipeline for internationally trained veterinary specialists entering California.
What is the prevailing wage for sponsored veterinarian jobs in California?
U.S. employers sponsoring a visa must pay at least the prevailing wage, which is what workers in the same role, area, and experience level typically earn. The Department of Labor sets this rate to make sure companies aren't hiring foreign workers simply because they'd accept lower pay than a U.S. worker. It varies by job title, location, and experience. You can look up current prevailing wage rates for any occupation and location using the OFLC Wage Search page.