Associate Veterinarian

AAVMP; Carbondale (IL); On-site; USD 110,000 - 180,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Signing bonus

Advanced imaging

Mentor network

CE allowance

Job summary

Lakeside Spears Animal Hospital in Carbondale, IL is seeking an Associate Veterinarian to join our 3-doctor practice. This full-time role offers a signing bonus up to $100K and a starting salary of $110,000, with mentorship and a diverse caseload across medicine, surgery, and emergency care.

Join a team equipped with CT, ultrasound, in-house labs, and advanced imaging. We support professional growth through mentorship, CE allowances, relocation support, and a comprehensive benefits package, with

Qualifications

• DVM degree (or equivalent) from an accredited program.
• Current DEA license or to be obtained on hire.
• Active veterinary state license required.
• USDA accreditation or to be obtained on hire.

Responsibilities

• Handle a diverse caseload in a general practice setting.
• Collaborate closely with a team of veterinarians and support staff.
• Provide compassionate client education and high-quality patient care.

Skills

Compassionate

Team oriented

Strong communicator

Medicine & surgery

Education

DVM degree or equivalent

Tools

CT imaging

Ultrasound

Radiology equipment

Job description

Full Time Associate Veterinarian | Signing Bonus up to $100K | $110,000 Starting Salary | Mentorship Opportunities

Lakeside Spears Animal Hospital, a well‑established 3‑doctor practice in Carbondale, IL, is seeking a dedicated Associate Veterinarian to join our mission‑driven team. We offer comprehensive hospital care, surgery, urgent care, dentistry, diagnostics, radiology, ultrasonography, and CT. As the only emergency veterinary practice within two hours, Lakeside Veterinary Hospital provides essential services to pets in our community, specializing in small animal care. With access to a wide variety of cases and a supportive team, you’ll be part of a critical resource for local pets and families.

Our practice is committed to integrity, service, and excellence, providing the highest level of care through advanced, state‑of‑the‑art diagnostic equipment. With access to the latest technology, you’ll have everything you need to handle a variety of emergency cases with confidence.

• CT Machine, Ultrasound, and X-ray – Advanced imaging for accurate, timely diagnostics.


• In-House Labs – Chemistry and hematology analyzer, blood gases, and more to support quick decision‑making.

Carbondale, Illinois offers an ideal setting for a healthy work‑life balance, featuring excellent schools and abundant outdoor activities. Whether you're an outdoor enthusiast or someone who enjoys a tight‑knit community, Carbondale provides the perfect balance between rural charm and city convenience.

• 2 hours from St. Louis, MO


• 3 hours from Nashville, TN


• 3.5 hours from Louisville, KY

Position Overview: As a General Practice Veterinarian at Lakeside Veterinary Hospital, you will have the opportunity to handle a diverse caseload and work side‑by‑side with a compassionate team of professionals. We empower our DVMs to practice medicine in a way that aligns with their individual styles, ensuring that you can serve our clients and their pets to the best of your abilities.

We value our team and are looking for a veterinarian who is passionate about making a difference in the lives of animals and their owners. If you're a skilled DVM looking for a place to grow professionally in a supportive and collaborative environment, Lakeside Veterinary Hospital is the ideal place for you!

We’re Looking For:

• Full‑Time Veterinarian for day shifts


• Compassionate, team‑oriented, and strong communicator


• Proficient in general medicine and surgery


• Experience preferred, but new graduates seeking mentorship are encouraged to apply!

What We Offer:

• SIGNING BONUS UP TO $100,000!


• Advanced Diagnostic Capabilities and state‑of‑the‑art equipment including CT, radiology, ultrasonography, and more


• Medical Autonomy to practice medicine your way


• Flexible Scheduling to ensure a great work‑life balance


• Full Benefits including PTO, health/dental/vision/life insurance, 401K, and pet care discounts


• Competitive Compensation


• DVM Mentor Network for continuous professional development


• Paid Continuing Education (CE) Allowance & Professional Dues


• Generous Sign‑On Bonus, Relocation Assistance, and Student Loan Aid


• A Network of Support: Backed by a powerful network named one of Inc.’s Best Workplaces 2025!

• Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) degree, or equivalent, from an accredited university


• Current DEA License or obtained upon hire


• Active Veterinary State License


• USDA Accreditation or obtained upon hire

Total compensation is individualized based on experience, schedule (full‑time or part‑time), location, and production. Compensation may include base salary, production incentives, sign‑on bonus, relocation assistance, and other applicable benefits and incentives. Total compensation package for the first year might range from $110,000-$180,000+.