Associate Veterinarian

Companion Pet; Santa Cruz (CA); On-site; USD 160,000 - 210,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Salary

Medical insurance

Mentorship

CE allowance

401(k)

Modern facilities

License fees covered

Work-life balance

Growth opportunities

Relocation assistance

Job summary

Animal Hospital of Soquel in Santa Cruz, CA is seeking an Associate Veterinarian to diagnose and treat companion animals alongside an experienced medical team. You will practice high-quality medicine with mentorship from the Medical Director while delivering compassionate care to every patient and their families.

The role offers a balanced mix of clinical autonomy and guidance, with a supportive environment focused on continuing education, ethics, and client relationships.

Qualifications

• DVM degree and current state veterinary license required.
• DEA license required.
• New graduates are welcome to apply.
• Excellent communication skills with clients and team members.

Responsibilities

• Diagnose and treat companion animals.
• Provide high-quality medicine with guidance from Medical Director.
• Build trust and clearly explain diagnoses and home care.
• Collaborate with veterinary technicians and staff.
• Educate clients on preventive care and vaccinations.

Skills

Communication with clients

Clinical judgment

Diagnostic procedures

Surgical techniques

Time management

Compassion for animals

Interpersonal skills

Practice management software

Ethics

Mentorship

Education

DVM degree

Current state license

DEA license

New graduates welcome

Job description

Why Join Our Team

Join a nationally recognized leader in veterinary health. Animal Hospital of Soquel is proud to be named one of the Best Veterinary Hospitals in the US for 2026 by Newsweek. We are a premier pet care destination, combining gold-standard medicine with premium lodging and daycare services. Our AAHA-accredited, state-of-the-art facility offers a sophisticated medical environment—including emergency care, surgery, advanced diagnostics, and dentistry—for professionals who are passionate about practicing at the highest level.

Our practice takes pride in fostering a peaceful, healing environment for both pets and people. Our compassionate team extends care beyond our facility by supporting local nonprofits and animal welfare organizations, making a difference for animals throughout the community.

What Sets Us Apart

• Excellence Recognized: Our "Best Veterinary Practice" award and AAHA accredidation reflect our unwavering commitment to quality medicine and veterinary excellence
• Comprehensive Services: Equipped and staffed for everything from preventative care to complex surgeries
• Community Impact: Active support for local shelters and rescue groups
• Calm Environment: Peaceful, healing atmosphere for both patients and clients
• Collaborative Culture: Patient-centered team dynamic with growth opportunities

Located in beautiful Santa Cruz, California, experience the perfect blend of nature and culture with beaches at your doorstep, a thriving art scene, farm-to-table cuisine, and wine country meeting the ocean breeze. Join us to make a difference while living your best life in one of California's most desirable coastal communities.

About This Role

Join our veterinary hospital as an Associate Veterinarian and put your medical expertise to work making a meaningful difference in the lives of pets and their families! In this fulfilling role, you'll diagnose and treat companion animals while working collaboratively with our experienced medical team.

You'll practice high-quality medicine with the guidance and support of our Medical Director, providing compassionate care to every patient. This position offers the perfect balance of clinical autonomy and mentorship, allowing you to grow your skills while delivering exceptional veterinary care. If you're passionate about animal health and building lasting client relationships, we'd love to welcome you to our team.

What Success Looks Like

• Clinical Excellence: You'll apply your veterinary expertise to diagnose and treat diseases and injuries, prescribe medications, perform surgeries, and develop comprehensive treatment plans.
• Client Communication: You'll build trust with pet owners by clearly explaining diagnoses, treatment options, and home care instructions with empathy and professionalism.
• Collaborative Care: You'll work seamlessly with our veterinary technicians and support staff, providing guidance while valuing their input and expertise.
• Preventive Focus: You'll educate clients about preventive care, including vaccinations, parasite control, nutrition, and early disease detection.
• Continuous Learning: You'll stay current with veterinary advancements and contribute to our hospital's culture of medical excellence and innovation.

What Makes You a Great Fit

• Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree with current state license
• Exceptional communication skills with both clients and team members
• Sound clinical judgment and strong decision-making abilities
• Genuine compassion for animals and the people who love them
• Professional demeanor and well-developed interpersonal skills
• Proficiency in diagnostic procedures, surgical techniques, and treatment methods
• Ability to manage time effectively in a fast-paced environment
• Commitment to practicing the highest standard of medicine and upholding veterinary ethics
• Comfort with current veterinary technology and practice management software

Education & Experience

• Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM)
• Current state veterinary license in good standing
• DEA license required
• New graduates are welcome to apply

How We'll Support You

• Competitive salary ($160,000 - $210,000) + production bonus opportunities
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance
• Mentorship from experienced veterinarians and supportive team environment
• Continuing education allowance and paid time off
• 401(k) with company match
• State-of-the-art equipment and facilities
• Professional liability coverage and paid license fees
• Balanced scheduling for work-life harmony
• Growth opportunities and employee referral program
• Relocation assistance available

EEO Statement

We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.