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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Veterinarian M/F - Boulogne-sur-Mer 62
Employee
3000 - 5000 per month
Boulogne-sur-Mer
Join a small, family-run veterinary clinic located in Gravelines, in the Nord department, as a full-time employee or as a private practitioner! Job Details Permanent contract or private practice arrangement Up to 4 days per week On-call shifts and standby duty (1 in 8) The Practice This is a 175 m² general veterinary clinic specializing primarily in dogs and cats, with a portion of its practice dedicated to exotic pets. The clinic is run by a veterinarian and five specialized veterinary technicians. It features three examination rooms, a surgery room, digital X-ray equipment, and an ultrasound machine, and offers a wide range of specialties ranging from orthopedics to cardiology, including ophthalmology and osteopathy. Furthermore, it is located in Gravelines, a fortified town on the waterfront listed among France’s “100 Most Beautiful Detours,” in a picturesque coastal setting just a stone’s throw from England and Belgium. Compensation For this position, your compensation will be determined during the interview, based on the collective bargaining agreement with a premium. Responsibilities General veterinary consultations for dogs and cats Surgery, particularly orthopedic Care in cardiology, ophthalmology, and osteopathy Performing imaging exams Providing ongoing medical care for local clients Benefits Choice of contract: independent practice or salaried position A supportive team and friendly atmosphere, covering a wide range of specialties Over 80 in-house training courses leading to certification (orthopedics, dentistry, imaging, surgery, cardiology, osteopathy, and others) Opportunities for internal mobility between clinics and career advancement to a clinic manager or operational management position Discounts on veterinary services for your pets Access to a Works Council That little extra something Gravelines boasts one of the most beautiful citadels fortified by Vauban, surrounded by ramparts and moats that give the city its unique charm. Just a few minutes away, the seaside resort of Petit-Fort-Philippe and its long beaches open out onto the North Sea, while the proximity to England and Belgium puts a variety of weekend getaways within easy reach. The Ideal Candidate Veterinarian with a degree from France. Contact us at 07 44 71 65 08 or by email at [email protected] Job Posting ID: 11256 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.
General veterinarian - Chelles 77 M/F
Employee
2700 - 5000 per month
Chelles
Veterinary Surgeon Job - Chelles 77 Interested in starting a new professional adventure in the Paris region? Ideally located in Chelles, between Paris and Marne-la-Vallée, a 98% canine and 2% NAC clinic is recruiting a general veterinarian on permanent contract. You will have the opportunity to join the clinic as an employee or as a freelancer. In a friendly atmosphere where 2 vets and 2 ASVs are already present, you'll benefit from excellent working conditions. This 160m2 facility boasts a full range of technical facilities: 2 consultation rooms, a pain relief and rehabilitation center (hydrotherapy, reeducation, electrotherapy, etc.), a full IDEXX analysis laboratory, blood counts, biochemical analyses, ionograms, high-performance surgery department (electric scalpel, visceral and orthopedic surgery, etc.), NAC hospitalization department, etc. You'll find all the equipment you need for every type of operation. The clinic has only one watchword: that the operation or treatment should result in a proven cure for the patient. As part of a national network, the clinic retains its total independence, giving you complete freedom in the way you operate. The group is built around 3 values: caring for employees and customers (extensive training catalog, solidarity fund for owners in need, etc.), the spirit of initiative (commitment to medical research) and the spirit of sharing (internal events, group social networks). You will receive an attractive salary based on the collective bargaining agreement, with a 15% bonus. Benefits of the position : - Permanent salaried status, full-time or part-time - Freelance collaboration possible - Collective bargaining agreement plus 15% bonus - Training, expert input - RCP insurance covered by the network - Full technical platform - Housing assistance - 30 minutes from Paris via RER E - No on-call duty Profiles required: French state-approved veterinary diploma. Positions open to beginners and experienced profiles. Contact us on: 07 45 23 91 01 Find over 4,000 healthcare job offers on our Jober Group website and mobile application. Take advantage of a network of 1,000 partners throughout France, a team of recruitment experts at your service and a totally free service that 99% of our candidates are satisfied with.
Canine Veterinarian (M/F) - Louhans 71
Employee
2000 - 4000 per month
Louhans
As part of its business expansion, a veterinary clinic in Louhans, Saône-et-Loire, is seeking a new canine veterinarian (M/F) for a permanent position. Requirements - Permanent contract or self-employed - Up to 5 days per week - On-call shifts and/or standby duty no more than once a week The Practice You will join a veterinary clinic dedicated exclusively to dogs, located in Louhans, in the Saône-et-Loire department. The clinic has extensive facilities, including four examination rooms, two fully equipped surgical suites, and three kennels, and its team consists of several veterinarians and veterinary technicians. Compensation - Based on the collective bargaining agreement plus a bonus Benefits - Comprehensive, specialized, 100% canine technical facilities - Access to over 80 in-house and certification-track training courses - Opportunities for internal mobility and advancement to leadership positions - Discounts on services for your pets - Access to an Employee Representative Committee Equipment - Laparoscope - Endoscope - Orthopedic motor - Surgical suction unit - Electrosurgical unit - CT scanner - Ultrasound machine - Radiology machine - Ligasure - Centrifuges for blood tests and PRP That Extra Special Touch Louhans is renowned for its more than 150 arcades and its weekly market featuring Bresse poultry, offering a unique local culinary experience and numerous outdoor activities nearby. 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: 12743 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.
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