Part Time Emergency Veterinarian | Pacific & Santa Cruz Veterinary Specialists

Part-Time Veterinarian

At PetVet Care Centers, our mission is to improve the lives of animals and people providing exceptional and compassionate care at every stage for all the moments that matter. Because life is better with pets. We deliver the Ultimate Care Experience every pet, every client, every time. That starts with a Culture of Care that supports our team members as much as the pets and clients we serve.

With more than 420 locally led hospitals and over 11,000 team members nationwide, we offer:

• Local autonomy with national support
• Career mobility and development opportunities
• A collaborative, inclusive environment where your wellbeing comes first

You care for pets. We care for you.

Join our team as a Part-Time Veterinarian with predictable hours and a consistent home hospital assignment. You'll enjoy flexibility while working alongside a locally led care team supported by national resources.

Whether you're balancing family commitments, pursuing personal interests, or simply seeking a more sustainable pace, we're here to support you. This role allows you to stay clinically engaged without sacrificing balance, connection, or continuity of care. We're flexible, open to conversation, and committed to understanding your availability and goalsand building a schedule that works for both you and the hospital.

At Pacific and Santa Cruz Veterinary Specialists, we foster a unique, supportive culture where collaboration, mutual respect, and enjoying our work environment are key values. We believe in making a difference for our patients and clients while genuinely enjoying the company of our colleagues.

Santa Cruz, CA, is nestled between the stunning Pacific coastline and lush redwood forests, is a dynamic city known for its laid-back lifestyle, active outdoor scene, and thriving tech, education, and creative industries. Whether you're surfing in the morning, hiking scenic trails, or enjoying local art and culture, Santa Cruz offers a unique blend of relaxation and opportunity. Join us and become part of a community that values sustainability, diversity, and work-life balance!

Compensation for Part Time roles is prorated based on experience and hours/shifts worked. Salary ranges listed in this posting reflect full-time roles.

Ready to take the next step? Apply today! For questions or to connect directly, please email your resume to Julia Stephens at View email address on click.appcast.io.

What We Offer

We care deeply about supporting our team members professionally and personally. Benefits include:

• Signing and retention incentives up to $50,000
• CE stipend
• Licensing and dues reimbursement
• 401(k) participation
• Team member pet discounts
• Emotional wellbeing support, including Calm app access and 24/7 EAP
• A supportive home hospital environment, backed by national resources and a strong Culture of Care

Key Responsibilities

• Comprehensive patient exams and medical work-ups
• Client communication and education
• Performing diagnostic procedures and surgery
• Maintaining accurate medical records
• Pharmacy duties such as prescribing medications to patients and following controlled substance protocols
• Promote teamwork and staff efficiency
• Work with the Hospital Manager on weekly priorities and expectations
• Evaluate and monitor protocols for the daily running of the hospital from intake to discharge
• Monitor cases in the hospital and attend daily rounds when possible to be sure the highest standards are being upheld
• Participate in practice management updates and training at all levels
• Performs other duties as assigned by Management.

Qualifications (Required)

• Veterinarian degree (DVM or VMD) from an accredited college or university
• Current State Veterinary License
• DEA registration must be obtained and maintained
• 1+ years of experience in emergency practice
• Strong diagnostic and clinical skills.
• Excellent surgical and dental skills.
• Ability to work well in a team-oriented environment.
• Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills.
• Commitment to providing compassionate and high-quality veterinary care.
• Excellent Communication Skills and the ability to communicate effectively, efficiently, and in a timely manner with all members of the Medical and Hospital staff.
• Client communication skills, must be able to elicit information, establish rapport, offer explanations with pet owners.
• Display confidence and reassurance when dealing with pets experiencing severe stress, illness, or pain.
• May include some climbing, balancing, stooping, kneeling, crouching, or crawling.
• Some tasks involve the periodic performance of moderately physically demanding work.
• Position does require the ability to lift up to 50 pounds.

Preferred Skills (Nice to Have)

• Clinical Knowledge and Skills: Demonstrate clinical knowledge and skill in examining and assessing animals. Perform cardiovascular, respiratory, orthopedic, neurological and other necessary examinations. Diagnosis and prescribe appropriate treatment.
• Problem-Solving: Ability to develop solutions to challenges relating to the management of a high-quality veterinary hospital.
• Communication Skills: Demonstrate effective communication of diagnostic and therapeutic options to clients. Display effective communication with internal medical and hospital staff.
• Professionalism: Work as part of a high-quality, professional veterinary team with the ability to provide and receive appropriate constructive criticism, suggestions, and feedback.
• Business Acumen: Ability to understand the management and finances of the veterinary hospital practice.
• Ethics: Knowledge and understanding of ethical principles that guide decisions affecting patients.
• Commitment to Continuing Education: Commitment to utilize available resources of continuing education and to facilitate learning of others.

Pay Range $210,000$220,000 USD

At PetVet Care Centers, we're committed to a Culture of Care for pets, for the people who love them, and for the team members who make it all possible. With more than 400 hospitals across the U.S. and a team of over 11,000 dedicated professionals, including 1700+ veterinarians, we offer a unique blend of local leadership and national support that helps our hospitals thrive.

Our model is built on partnership, collaboration, and local medical autonomy, empowering each hospital to deliver high-quality care while benefiting from shared resources and a strong professional community. Whether you're providing care in a hospital or supporting operations behind the scenes, PetVet is a place where you can grow your career, stay connected to your purpose, and make a meaningful impact.

You care for pets. We care for you.

PetVet is an equal opportunity employer. All employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, age, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, marital status, pregnancy, religion, citizenship, national origin/ancestry, physical/mental disabilities, military status or any other basis prohibited by law. EOE, M/F/D/V

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