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 - Corte 2B
Employee
3000 - 5000 per month
Corte
An independent veterinary clinic in Corte, Haute-Corse, is looking for a veterinarian M/F to work as a salaried employee or in a self-employed capacity, as part of the development of its business and a plan to form an association by 2027. Terms and conditions Salaried or self-employed (depending on profile), with plans to form a partnershipFixed day ratePosition to be filled in summer 2026 The structure This independent veterinary clinic is located in Corte, in the heart of Haute-Corse, at the foot of an exceptional mountain range. The main activity is canine, supplemented by a rural component including prophylaxis and the management of a few local emergencies. The carefully-maintained, functional structure offers a comfortable working environment, designed to ensure good working conditions and to support the development of the business. The team is made up of two veterinarians and two experienced veterinary assistants, in a simple, respectful and collaborative atmosphere. The gradual retirement of one of the partners, scheduled for 2027, opens up a real opportunity for takeover and long-term investment within a structured, supported project. Remuneration Remuneration in accordance with the collective bargaining agreement, plus 20% bonus The benefits Structured and supported partnership project, with gradual and serene handoverPosition open to both junior and experienced profiles, with a genuine desire to train and pass onSmall, close-knit and stable team, friendly and caring atmosphereIndependent, well-equipped and accessible clinicReal work-life balance, in an exceptional natural settingLively university town all year round, with all the necessary infrastructure (schools from nursery to university, accessible rental market) Facilities Two consultation roomsDedicated surgery roomGaseous anaesthesia and respiratorDigital radiology with planar sensorLatest-generation high-definition ultrasoundComplete analysis laboratoryHospitalization room and care area The little extra Corte is often referred to as the capital of Corsica's interior, and with good reason: perched on a rocky spur overlooking the confluence of the Tavignano and Restonica rivers, it offers one of the island's most breathtaking panoramas. The Genoese citadel that dominates the old town is a strong symbol of Corsican identity, and the Restonica gorges, just a few minutes away, are among the most spectacular natural sites on the Mediterranean. A rare living environment, for a professional project that is just as rare. Profile required Veterinary surgeon qualified in France or the European Union, registered or eligible for registration with the Ordre. Contact us on 07 44 71 65 08 or by e-mail at [email protected] Ad reference: 11200 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. Candidates from the European Union: Jober Group, France's leading recruitment agency for healthcare professionals, supports you free of charge right up to the start of your business: Put you in touch with our partner teachersFollow-up for registration with the Ordre des MédecinsConsultant(s) dedicated to your support
Veterinary Clinic Manager - Issoudun 36
Employee
3000 - 5000 per month
Issoudun
We are recruiting a veterinary clinic manager M/F to join a clinic located in Issoudun, in the Indre department. Terms and conditions - Permanent contract or self-employed possible - Full time or part time - Weekend on-call duty once a month and on-call duty some evenings The structure You will be joining a general veterinary clinic based in Issoudun, which mainly treats companion animals. The clinic retains a family and local feel, fostering a serene working environment. Its team is made up of several veterinarians and qualified veterinary auxiliaries, enabling collaborative organization and a reassuring welcome for customers. Remuneration - 100,000 gross/year (fixed + variable) Missions - Clinical practice for around 80% of workload - 20% clinic management (financial management, human resources and regulatory compliance) - Define and implement the clinic's project in conjunction with central services - Implement an efficient organization to achieve project objectives - Ensure the safety and well-being of staff and develop the working environment - Commit the clinic to continuous improvement and medical excellence - Foster the team's cooperation with other group establishments and contacts The benefits - Spacious 400 m² premises and full technical facilities - Attractive remuneration package and mixed fixed/variable remuneration - Luncheon vouchers and premium health insurance 100% covered in the case of salaried employees - Access to internal and external training and specialist networks - Operational team of veterinarians and veterinary auxiliaries - Good working atmosphere and fluid communication within the team - Nearby parking and accessibility Our equipment - Planar sensor radio - Ultrasound - Endoscope - Analysis laboratory (biochemistry, blood count, ionogram, Sedivue) - Three gases - Dental unit (drill, polisher, scaler) - Operating microscope (ophthalmology) - Four operating theatres The little extra Issoudun is a town with a rich medieval heritage, famous for its Tour Blanche and historic streets. Just 30 minutes from Châteauroux and 1h30 from Tours, it offers a lifestyle that combines peace and quiet, nature and access to regional amenities. Profile required Veterinarian qualified in France or the European Union, registered or eligible for registration with the Ordre. Contact us on: 07 44 71 65 08 or by e-mail at [email protected] Ad reference: 12604 Candidates from the European Union: Jober Group, leader in the integration of healthcare professionals in France, supports you free of charge right up to the start of your activity: - Introduction to our partner teachers - Follow-up for registration with the French Medical Association - Dedicated consultant to support you Find over 4,000 healthcare job offers on our Jober Group website and mobile application. Benefit from 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 - Saint-Germain-sur-Morin 77
Employee
2000 - 5000 per month
Saint-Germain-sur-Morin
A veterinary clinic in Saint-Germain-sur-Morin, Seine-et-Marne, is actively seeking a part-time CDI for a canine veterinarian. Terms and conditions - CDI - Part-time (25h/week) - Thursday, Friday and Saturday mornings - 9:00 am to 12:40 pm and 2:40 pm to 7:00 pm on weekdays - 9:00 am to 1:00 pm on Saturday The structure Located in Saint-Germain-sur-Morin, in the Seine-et-Marne region, this veterinary clinic is predominantly canine (99% of consultations, with a marginal share of NACs) and covers 160 m² with two consultation rooms. The team consists of two veterinarians, including a former medical intern, and four qualified veterinary assistants. The facility is set in a pleasant rural and residential environment, with a stable, committed clientele ready to invest in their pets' health. Remuneration - Remuneration in accordance with the collective bargaining agreement, to be specified according to profile and experience Benefits - No on-call duty - Clinic on a human scale, with a friendly, family atmosphere - Active junior profiles welcome, with dedicated support when taking up post - Premium health insurance covered at 100% by the structure - Luncheon vouchers - Access to the CSE - Access to a wide network of specialists, in-house, external and diploma training courses - Solidarity fund to cover the cost of animals for owners in financial difficulty - Regular friendly team events Our equipment - Digital radiography - Ultrasound (with training possibilities) - On-board analysis laboratory (blood count, biochemistry, ionogram) - Laser therapy - Kennel and cattery The little extra Saint-Germain-sur-Morin is a charming village in the Seine-et-Marne region, with the peaceful waters of the Grand Morin running through it - an ideal setting for lovers of nature and tranquillity. And for moments of relaxation, Disneyland Paris is just a few minutes away: it's hard to find a better neighborhood for a magical getaway after a busy week. Profile required Veterinary surgeon qualified in France or the European Union, registered or eligible for registration with the Ordre. Contact us on 07 44 71 65 08 or by e-mail at [email protected] Ad reference: 12602 Find over 4,000 healthcare job offers on our Jober Group website and mobile application. Benefit from 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. Candidates from the European Union: Jober Group, France's leading recruitment agency for healthcare professionals, supports you free of charge right up to the start of your business: - Introduction to our partner teachers - Follow-up for registration with the French Medical Association (Ordre des Médecins) - Dedicated consultant to support you
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