Veterinary Anesthesiologist - Veterinary Referral Associates (Gaithersburg)

Position Overview

We are seeking a dedicated Board‑Certified or Residency‑Trained Veterinary Anesthesiologist to join our growing team at VRA. The ideal candidate will have a passion for anesthesia and pain management, advanced anesthesia techniques, and excellent communication skills to build lasting relationships with our clients. The role involves working closely with the Hospital Manager, Regional Manager, and a team of veterinarians, technicians, and support staff in a state‑of‑the‑art facility to provide top‑tier care to patients.

Why Join Us

• AAHA‑accredited
• 24‑hour specialty and emergency hospital with over 30,000 square feet and a wide range of specialty services including medical and radiation oncology, internal medicine, surgery, emergency and critical care, ophthalmology, anesthesiology, neurology, cardiology, radiology, acupuncture, physical rehabilitation, radioactive iodine treatment, and an in‑house pathology department.
• Located 30 minutes from Washington D.C. in a vibrant community with easy access to urban amenities and outdoor activities.

What We Offer

• Signing, retention, and relocation packages up to $75,000
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• Paid parental leave (birth, adoption, foster)
• 401(k) with discretionary contribution
• Team member pet discounts
• Emotional wellbeing support – including Calm app access and 24/7 EAP
• CE stipends and career development resources
• Grant Circle – a relief fund for team members facing personal hardship
• Local hospital culture backed by national resources

Key Responsibilities

• Comprehensive patient exams and medical work‑ups
• Client communication and education
• Maintaining accurate medical records
• Pharmacy duties such as prescribing medications 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 daily hospital running from intake to discharge
• Monitor cases and attend daily rounds when possible to uphold high standards
• 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
• 1‑year rotational internship in small animal medicine, surgery, ER (university or large referral practice)
• Completed a 3‑year, AVMA‑approved residency program
• Current state veterinary license
• DEA registration obtained and maintained
• Strong diagnostic and clinical skills
• Ability to work well in a team‑oriented environment
• Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills
• Commitment to compassionate and high‑quality veterinary care
• Excellent communication with all members of the medical and hospital staff
• Client communication skills – ability to elicit information, establish rapport, and explain with pet owners
• Display confidence and reassurance when dealing with stressed, ill, or painful pets
• Physical requirements: may include climbing, balancing, stooping, kneeling, crouching, or crawling; periodic moderate demands; ability to lift up to 50 pounds

Preferred Skills (Nice to Have)

• Board certification
• 2‑5 years of experience post‑residency
• Strong clinical knowledge and skill in examining and assessing animals, including cardiovascular, respiratory, orthopedic, neurological, and other examinations; diagnosis and prescription of appropriate treatment
• Problem‑solving for high‑quality hospital management challenges
• Effective communication of diagnostic and therapeutic options to clients and internal staff
• Professionalism and constructive feedback provision and reception
• Business acumen in veterinary hospital management and finances
• Ethics knowledge guiding patient decisions
• Commitment to continuing education and facilitation of others’ learning

Pay Range

$180,000 — $250,000 USD

Equal Employment Opportunity

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