Medical Director

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.

You care for pets. We care for you.

Position Overview

We are seeking a compassionate and skilled Medical Director to join our team at Des Moines Veterinary Hospital. The ideal candidate will be passionate about providing high‑quality veterinary care and possess excellent communication skills to build lasting relationships with our clients. You will work alongside a team of experienced veterinarians, technicians, and support staff and will work closely with the Hospital Manager and Regional Director.

Responsibilities

• Conduct comprehensive patient examinations and medical work‑ups.
• Communicate effectively with clients and provide education about pet health.
• Perform diagnostic procedures and surgical interventions.
• Maintain accurate medical records and pharmacy documentation.
• Prescribe medications to patients and adhere to controlled substance protocols.
• Promote teamwork and improve staff efficiency.
• Collaborate with the Hospital Manager on weekly priorities and expectations.
• Evaluate and monitor hospital protocols from intake to discharge.
• Attend daily rounds to ensure high standards are upheld.
• Participate in practice management updates and training at all levels.
• Perform 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 obtained and maintained.
• 2+ years of experience in a veterinary 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.
• Demonstrated ability to communicate effectively with all members of the Medical and Hospital staff.
• Client communication skills, including eliciting information, establishing rapport, and offering explanations to pet owners.
• Confidence and reassurance when assisting pets experiencing severe stress, illness, or pain.
• Physical ability to perform climbing, balancing, stooping, kneeling, crouching, or crawling as required.
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds.
• Perform moderately physically demanding work periodically.

Preferred Skills (Nice to Have)

• Demonstrated clinical knowledge and skill in comprehensive animal examinations.
• Proven problem‑solving skills for high‑quality veterinary hospital management.
• Effective communication of diagnostic and therapeutic options to clients.
• Professionalism and ability to give and receive constructive feedback.
• Business acumen related to veterinary hospital finances.
• Strong ethical judgment guiding patient‑care decisions.
• Commitment to continuing education and facilitation of others’ learning.

Compensation & Benefits

Competitive base salary: $130,000–$150,000 USD. Benefits include medical, dental, and vision insurance; paid parental leave; 401(k) with discretionary contribution; team‑member pet discounts; emotional wellbeing support; CE stipends; and a relief fund for personal hardship.

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.