In our veterinary studies fact sheet, we saw that the path to becoming a veterinarian is long and demanding. In return for this initial investment, average salaries are high, enabling full development in a dynamic, high-energy environment. In this article, we'll look at all aspects of veterinary salaries, from the factors that influence them to current averages.
Factors influencing veterinary salaries in France
In France , veterinary salaries are influenced by a number of determining factors, such as practice mode, geographical location and level of specialization. These factors contribute to significant variations in the salaries received by practitioners.
Type of practice: salaried vs. self-employed
Practice mode is one of the main criteria determining a veterinarian's income. Here are the main types:
- Salaried vets: these vets work within structures such as clinics, veterinary practices or companies (pharmaceutical industry, public services, etc.). Their remuneration is fixed and stable, often defined by standard contracts. This option offers a certain degree of financial security and social benefits (paid vacations, health insurance, pension), but limits the prospects of income growth.
- Private practitioners: private practitioners, particularly those who own or manage their own clinics, can generate higher incomes thanks to their ability to set their own fees. However, they are also faced with significant expenses, notably for medical equipment, premises and employee salaries. Liberal veterinarians in France enjoy greater flexibility in managing their business, but this also requires entrepreneurial skills and sound financial management.
Location: rural vs. urban
Location is another key factor influencing veterinary remuneration in France.
- Rural area: rural vets work mainly with livestock and farms. Although their role is essential for livestock farmers and health safety, fees charged in rural areas are often more modest, due to the economic constraints faced by farmers. Nevertheless, these vets generally enjoy a regular and stable clientele, with a constant demand for their services, particularly in herd management and emergency interventions.
- Urban areas: in urban areas, vets work in pet clinics. Urban pet owners are often willing to invest more in the care of their companions, enabling urban vets to charge higher fees. As a result, urban vets' incomes can be higher than those of their rural counterparts, particularly in large conurbations where demand for specialist care is high.
Find out more about this in our veterinary profession fact sheet.
Specialization and expertise
Specialization is a major lever for enhancing a veterinarian'sreputation, as well as his or her salary. It also gives access to better veterinary job offers. Here are a few specialties:
- Clinical specialties: in France, many vets choose to specialize in fields such as surgery, dermatology, ophthalmology or cardiology, which offer interesting opportunities to provide high value-added services. These specializations enable us to meet specific needs and attract a clientele willing to pay for advanced care.
- Medicine for new pets and exotic animals: this specialization is increasingly in demand, particularly in large cities. The care of NACs (reptiles, birds, rodents, etc.) requires specific skills and special equipment, enhancing the value of the services offered.
- Certifications and further training: veterinarians who obtain recognized certifications, such as a DESV (Diplôme d'Études Spécialisées Vétérinaires) or European diplomas, can gain access to positions in specialized clinics or prestigious structures. These diplomas bring increased professional recognition and rewarding career opportunities.
Average salary for a veterinary surgeon
Starting salary
At the start of their career, veterinary surgeons earn an average of between 1,800 and 2,500 euros gross per month, depending on the sector of activity and place of practice selected. It should be noted that young graduates working in rural areas or as salaried employees in a clinic generally earn lower than average.
Salary progression with experience
With experience, income gradually increases. After a few years, an experienced veterinarian can achieve a monthly salary of between 2,500 and 4,500 euros net per month, depending on responsibilities and expertise. Liberal veterinarians or clinic owners can see their income climb even higher, especially if they practice in areas of high demand or if they specialize.
In short, veterinary remuneration is generally high, as a direct consequence of the long and complex studies to which this professional has dedicated himself. In France, the variety of types and locations of practice means that veterinarians can adjust their income to suit their goals and ambitions.
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Canine Veterinarian (M/F) - Sevran, 93
Employee
3000 - 5000 per month
Sevran
A veterinary practice in Sevran, Seine-Saint-Denis, is seeking a new canine veterinarian (M/F) with a view to taking over the clinic. Terms and Conditions - Permanent contract or independent practice - Part-time - Four days a week - Monday, Wednesday, and Friday, plus a choice between Tuesday and Thursday - Every other Saturday morning - Weekdays: 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. (lunch break from 12 p.m. to 2 p.m.) - Saturdays: 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. - No on-call duty or standby shifts The Practice You’ll be joining a veterinary clinic located in a quiet, residential neighborhood of Sevran, with excellent access via the RER B line, allowing you to reach Paris in 30 minutes. The 150-square-meter facility includes two examination rooms, a waiting room, a break room, a surgical suite, a dog kennel, and a cat shelter, and features a parking lot. The team consists of three veterinarians and three veterinary technicians working in a friendly, family-like atmosphere. Additionally, the clinic’s loyal clientele—which has been with us for several decades—has fostered a relationship of trust and appreciation for the team. Compensation - Collective bargaining agreement with a bonus of up to 20% - Performance bonus Benefits - Performance bonus - Meal vouchers - Regular training and opportunities for advancement to management positions - Structured schedule with consultations every 20 minutes to ensure high-quality care - Functional 150 m² facilities - Parking available and direct access to the RER - Stable team and collaborative work environment Equipment - IDEXX laboratory offering biochemistry, complete blood count, and electrolyte panel - Sonosite ultrasound machine with cardiac probe - Digital radiology with a flat-panel detector - Therapeutic laser - Inhalation anesthesia That Little Extra Sevran offers quick access to Paris while providing nearby green spaces, notably the Parc de la Poudrerie, perfect for walks after work or on weekends. Qualifications A veterinarian with a degree from France or the European Union, currently registered or eligible for registration with the Order. Contact us at: 07.44.71.65.08 or by email at [email protected] Job Posting ID: 13085 Find over 4,000 healthcare job openings on our website and the Jober Group mobile app. Take advantage of a network of 1,000 partners throughout France, a team of recruitment experts dedicated to your needs, and a completely free service that 99% of our candidates are satisfied with. Candidates from the European Union: Jober Group, the leader in placing healthcare professionals in France, provides you with free support until you start your new role: - Connecting you with our partner medical schools - Assistance with registration with the French Medical Board - A dedicated consultant to support you
Canine Veterinarian (M/F) - Rittershoffen 67
Employee
3000 - 5000 per month
Rittershoffen
As part of its business expansion, a veterinary clinic in Rittershoffen, in the Bas-Rhin department, is seeking a canine veterinarian (M/F) for a permanent position. Requirements - Permanent contract - Full-time - 35 hours per week - Monday through Friday The Clinic You will join a friendly dog clinic located in Rittershoffen, part of a group of six clinics. The team consists of three veterinarians and seven veterinary technicians and fosters a collaborative and supportive work environment. Additionally, appointments are scheduled in 30-minute slots to ensure high-quality care and optimal working conditions. Compensation - Salary above the collective bargaining agreement Benefits - Premium health insurance - Meal vouchers - Training and professional development opportunities - Fully equipped technical facilities - Supportive team and friendly atmosphere That Extra Something Rittershoffen is located in northern Alsace, near Haguenau and the German border, offering a quiet, green living environment that’s easily accessible via major highways, as well as cross-border cultural and culinary opportunities. Qualifications A veterinarian with a degree from France or the European Union, who is registered or eligible for registration with the Order. Contact us at: 07 44 71 65 08 or by email at [email protected]. Job Posting Reference: 13084 Candidates from the European Union: Jober Group, the leader in the integration of healthcare professionals in France, provides free support until you begin your practice: - Connecting you with our partner professors - Assistance with registration with the Medical Board - A dedicated consultant to support you Find over 4,000 healthcare job openings on our Jober Group website and mobile app. Take advantage of a network of 1,000 partners throughout France, a team of recruitment experts ready to assist you, and a completely free service that 99% of our candidates are satisfied with.
Canine Veterinarian (M/F) - Gaillard 74
Employee
2000 - 4000 per month
Gaillard
As part of its business expansion, a veterinary clinic in Gaillard, Haute-Savoie, is seeking a new canine veterinarian (M/F) for a one-year fixed-term contract. Job Details - One-year fixed-term contract (with the possibility of a six-month extension) - Mondays and Tuesdays - Work hours based on an annual workload of 100 to 150 days - Six to seven full weeks spread out over the year The Practice You will join a clinic exclusively dedicated to companion animals, located in downtown Gaillard. Its patient population consists mainly of cats and dogs, with a few small animals, and its practice is primarily medical in nature, with high demand for diagnostic tests and a moderate volume of surgical procedures. In addition, the team includes two experienced and trained veterinary technicians, which enhances patient care and the quality of treatment. Compensation - As per the collective bargaining agreement + 20% Benefits - Full range of diagnostic equipment - Two experienced Level 5 veterinary technicians - No on-call duty or standby shifts - Large parking lot with easy parking - Excellent public transportation access from Annemasse and Geneva - Membership in the Alpivet purchasing group, with training opportunities - Option for furnished housing (45 m²) located 200 meters from the clinic: a furnished one-bedroom apartment (45 m²) with a monthly rent of 800 € Facilities - 2 examination rooms - 1 operating room - 1 radiology room - On-site laboratory - Digital X-ray - Ultrasound machine capable of performing cardiac ultrasounds That Extra Special Touch Gaillard enjoys an attractive cross-border location, right next to Geneva and Lake Geneva. Outdoor enthusiasts will easily enjoy the trails on Mount Salève and water sports around the lake. International accessibility is a major advantage, with the airport just a short distance away. Qualifications A veterinarian licensed in France or the European Union, currently registered or eligible for registration with the Order. Contact us at: 07 44 71 65 08 or by email at [email protected] Job posting reference: 12755 Candidates from the European Union: Jober Group, the leader in the integration of healthcare professionals in France, provides free support until you begin your practice: - Connecting you with our partner professors - Assistance with registration with the Medical Board - A dedicated consultant to support you Find over 4,000 healthcare job openings on our website and the Jober Group mobile app. Take advantage of a network of 1,000 partners throughout France, a team of recruitment experts ready to assist you, and a completely free service that 99% of our candidates are satisfied with.
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