Associate Veterinarian

Job Description

Job Description

SALARY $110,000.00 - 220,000.00

Compensation is commensurate with experience, schedule, production structure, and hospital needs. Benefits may include medical, dental, and vision insurance; paid time off; continuing education allowance; paid CE days; professional dues and licensing support; liability coverage; retirement plan participation; employee pet care discounts; relocation assistance; and/or sign-on bonus, as applicable.

SCHEDULE: PT/FT (40hrs/week) May include weekdays, evenings, weekends, holidays, or on-call shifts depending on business needs.

POSITION SUMMARY

At Animal Care Services, we believe exceptional patient care begins with an exceptional team.  The Veterinary Associate provides high-quality medical, surgical, dental, and preventive care for companion animals while supporting a compassionate, client-centered hospital environment. The Associate Veterinarian reports to the Medical Director and works collaboratively with veterinarians, technicians, assistants, client service representatives, and leadership to deliver excellent patient outcomes and positive client experiences.

ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILTIES

·         Perform comprehensive physical examinations and assess patient health status.

·         Diagnose illnesses, injuries, dental conditions, and other medical concerns using appropriate diagnostic tools.

·         Develop and communicate individualized treatment plans, including estimates, follow-up care, and home-care instructions.

·         Prescribe and administer medications, vaccinations, parasite prevention, and other therapies in accordance with medical standards and applicable regulations.

·         Perform routine surgical and dental procedures, including spays, neuters, mass removals, dental cleanings, and extractions, based on experience and hospital protocols.

·         Interpret laboratory results, radiographs, cytology, and other diagnostic findings to guide patient care.

·         Educate clients on preventive care, nutrition, behavior, wellness plans, chronic disease management, and end-of-life options.

·         Maintain accurate, complete, and timely medical records for all examinations, diagnostics, treatments, procedures, and client communications.

·         Collaborate with the veterinary team to ensure efficient workflow, patient safety, and consistent standards of care.

·         Provide compassionate support to clients and patients during urgent, critical, or emotionally difficult situations.

SKILLS AND PROFESSIONAL ATTRIBUTES

·         Excellent communication and client education skills.

·         Compassionate, patient-focused approach to veterinary care.

·         Sound clinical judgment, problem-solving ability, and attention to detail.

·         Ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced clinical environment.

·         Collaborative mindset and respect for all members of the hospital team.

·         Commitment to continuing education and staying current with developments in veterinary medicine.

·         Professional appearance, dependable attendance, and a positive attitude.

·         Comfort using practice management software, digital medical records, diagnostic equipment, and common office applications.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

·         Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree or equivalent from an accredited veterinary program.

·         Current license to practice veterinary medicine in California.

·         DEA registration, or eligibility to obtain one, as required by the role.

·         Fear Free Certificate (preferred)

·         Strong knowledge of small animal medicine, surgery, dentistry, diagnostics, pharmacology, and preventive care.

·         Ability to practice in accordance with applicable laws, regulations, veterinary medical ethics, and hospital policies.

·         New graduates and experienced veterinarians are encouraged to apply; mentorship may be available depending on hospital needs.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

·         Must be able to stand, walk, bend, reach, and work on feet for extended periods.

·         Must be able to safely handle animals of varying sizes, temperaments, and medical conditions.

·         May be exposed to animal dander, odors, noise, bites, scratches, infectious disease, cleaning agents, medications, and radiology or laboratory equipment.

·         Must follow all safety, sanitation, controlled substance, and personal protective equipment protocols.

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY STATEMENT

We are an equal opportunity employer and value a respectful, inclusive workplace. Employment decisions are based on qualifications, experience, business needs, and the ability to perform the essential functions of the role.