Associate Veterinarian - Mixed Animal

Build A Career That Lasts-Under A Really Big Sky

You didn't become a veterinarian to play small.

You chose this profession to solve problems, earn trust, lead with skill, and make an impact that matters.

At West River Veterinary Clinic in Hettinger, North Dakota, that's exactly what you'll do...

We practice progressive, high-quality medicine in a culture that values hard work and lasting relationships - with support that allows you to grow professionally and personally .

We believe great veterinary medicine is rooted in community, teamwork, and legacy Many of our clients have trusted us for two and three generations - that kind of loyalty is built through respect, consistency, and passion.

Whether you're:

• Launching your career
• Expanding advanced skills
• Seeking leadership influence
• Or looking for a long-term professional home

There is space for you here - under the big North Dakota sky. Come where there's room to practice at the top of your abilities.

A True Mixed Animal Practice

• State-of-the-art facility built in 2016
• 50% Cow/Calf (including most area bison herds)
• 45% Small Animal
• 5% Equine & Small Ruminant - with room to expand

We are a 100% haul-in facility for emergencies and individual animal care, giving you the equipment, support, and backup you need when cases get serious. On call is shared evenly among full-time veterinarians and supported by an assistant when possible.

This is hands-on, relationship-driven medicine - not volume-centered, impersonal care.

A Team That Has Your Back

Veterinarians:

• Dr. Bleaux Johnson (Iowa State University; 2008)
• Dr. Jenna Innes (Auburn University; 2014)
• Dr. David Lensing (Kansas State University; 2004)
• Dr. Lindy West (Kansas State University; 2012); part time
• Dr. Dawn Kaiser (University of Wisconsin, 1992); part time/relief

Supported by long-tenured veterinary technicians and assistants, a full-time practice manager, and a dedicated inventory manager.

We discuss case strategy. We share wins. We step in when someone needs backup.

Modern Standards, Rural Setting

Small Animal Equipment:

• In-house CBC/Chem + Sedivue
• Digital Radiology
• Double surgical suite
• Dental unit
• Gas anesthesia
• Ultrasound

Large Animal Facilities:

• Hydraulic tilt-table chutes (Silencer & Foremost)
• Temperature-controlled indoor cattle facility
• Electric hoist
• Equine stocks & surgery suite
• Portable hydraulic chutes for field work

Powered by Partnership

West River Veterinary Clinic is part of the Heritage Vet Partners network, providing operational and business support that allows doctors to focus on medicine. You'll have access to shared expertise, peer collaboration, continuing education resources, and long-term strategic stability - while maintaining our local culture and autonomy.

Life in Hettinger, North Dakota

Hettinger is a small community with a big heart, surrounded by fertile grasslands, buttes, and the rugged Badlands. Enjoy hiking, horseback riding, kayaking, camping, sledding, and some of the best hunting and fishing in the nation.

Explore iconic destinations like Theodore Roosevelt National Park, Custer State Park, Badlands National Park, Mount Rushmore, and Devils Tower.

This is a safe, supportive community with strong schools, competitive sports teams, excellent healthcare, and a diversified agricultural-industrial economy. It's a place where you can build a meaningful career - and a meaningful life

Compensation & Benefits

• Salary is commensurate with experience
• Stocked practice vehicle (where applicable)
• Cell phone stipend
• Professional Dues: 3 per year
• Professional liability provided
• CE Allowance: $3000 biennial
• Generous PTO package
• Full Benefits Package (Health, Dental, Vision, STD, LTD, Life, Accident, + more!)
• 401K with employer match (after 90 days)
• Up to eight weeks PAID parental leave* (after 6 months)
• Accelerated ownership opportunity with our Associate Equity Program!
• Eligibility for North Dakota Veterinary Student Loan Repayment Program
• Eligibility for Federal Veterinary Medicine Loan Repayment Program (VMLRP)

*6 weeks paid medical recovery time for birth mothers + 2 weeks paid bonding time for all parents


We welcome conversations about long-term leadership development and future growth within both our clinic and the Heritage Vet Partners network.

If You're Ready...

If you want community over corporate conveyor belts, teamwork over isolation, and legacy over short-term transactions- we would love to connect.

West River Veterinary Clinic isn't just hiring an associate-we're inviting you to build something that lasts.

STATEMENT

All applicants are considered for all positions without regard to race, religion, color, sex, gender, sexual orientation, pregnancy, age, national origin, ancestry, physical/mental disability, medical condition, military/veteran status, genetic information, marital status, ethnicity, citizenship or immigration status, or any other protected classification, in accordance with applicable federal, state, and local laws. By completing this application, you are seeking to join a team of hardworking professionals dedicated to consistently delivering outstanding service to our customers and contributing to the financial success of the organization, its clients, and its employees. Equal access to programs, services, and employment is available to all qualified persons. Those applicants requiring an accommodation to complete the application and/or interview process should contact a management representative.