Associate Veterinarian - Berkeley Dog & Cat Hospital

Berkeleydogandcat; Berkeley (CA); On-site; USD 160,000 - 180,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental, and vision insurance

401(k) with discretionary contribution

Team Member Pet Discounts

Emotional wellbeing support

Job summary

Berkeley Dog & Cat Hospital, part of PetVet Care Centers, is looking for a compassionate Associate Veterinarian. You will provide high-quality veterinary care, communicate effectively with clients and work with a dedicated team. Located in the scenic Berkeley, California, the hospital is committed to delivering exceptional services.

In addition to competitive pay ($160,000 – $180,000), we offer outstanding benefits including medical, dental, 401(k), and relocation packages. Join us and make a difference in the lives of pets and their owners.

Qualifications

• 1+ years of experience in a veterinary emergency practice.
• Client communication skills required for rapport with pet owners.
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds.

Responsibilities

• Comprehensive patient exams and medical work-ups.
• Client communication and education.
• Performing diagnostic procedures and surgery.

Skills

Strong diagnostic and clinical skills

Excellent surgical and dental skills

Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills

Ability to work well in a team-oriented environment

Education

Veterinarian degree (DVM or VMD)

Current State Veterinary License

Job description

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.

Position Overview

We are seeking a compassionate and skilled Associate Veterinarian to join our team at Berkeley Dog & Cat 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.

Berkeley Dog & Cat Hospital is located in beautiful Berkeley, California. Our hospital is open to providing General Practice and Urgent Care Services to our clients & their beloved pets. We are known for our vibrant, high performing, and incredibly rewarding workplace.

Why Join Us

• Within our 15,000 square foot facility, we have a fully stocked pharmacy, in-house laboratory, helical CT scan, two X-ray suites, ultrasound, operating microscope, endoscopes, a comprehensive dental suite, and extensive specialty surgery equipment in two surgical suites.
• We take pride in creating exceptional and meaningful work experiences, encouraging innovation, delivering award‑winning benefits to our patients, and being involved with our communities.
• Located in the heart of the San Francisco Bay Area, Berkeley offers an unbeatable blend of natural beauty, cultural vibrancy, and progressive spirit.

Key Responsibilities

• Comprehensive patient exams and medical work-ups
• Client communication and education
• Performing diagnostic procedures and surgery
• Maintaining accurate medical records
• Pharmacy duties such as prescribing medications to patients 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 the daily running of the hospital from intake to discharge
• Monitor cases in the hospital and attend daily rounds when possible to be sure the highest standards are being 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 must be obtained and maintained
• 1+ years of experience in a veterinary emergency 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.
• Excellent communication skills and the ability to communicate effectively, efficiently, and in a timely manner with all members of the Medical and Hospital staff.
• Client communication skills, must be able to elicit information, establish rapport, offer explanations with pet owners.
• Display confidence and reassurance when dealing with pets experiencing severe stress, illness, or pain.
• May include some climbing, balancing, stooping, kneeling, crouching, or crawling.
• Some tasks involve the periodic performance of moderately physically demanding work.
• Position does require the ability to lift up to 50 pounds.

Preferred Skills (Nice to Have)

• Demonstrate clinical knowledge and skill in examining and assessing animals. Perform cardiovascular, respiratory, orthopedic, neurological and other necessary examinations. Diagnose and prescribe appropriate treatment.
• Problem‑Solving: Ability to develop solutions to challenges relating to the management of a high-quality veterinary hospital.
• Communication Skills: Demonstrate effective communication of diagnostic and therapeutic options to clients. Display effective communication with internal medical and hospital staff.
• Professionalism: Work as part of a high-quality, professional veterinary team with the ability to provide and receive appropriate constructive criticism, suggestions, and feedback.
• Business Acumen: Ability to understand the management and finances of the veterinary hospital practice.
• Ethics: Knowledge and understanding of ethical principles that guide decisions affecting patients.
• Commitment to Continuing Education: Commitment to utilize available resources of continuing education and to facilitate learning of others.

What We Offer

• Signing, retention, and relocation packages up to $75,000
• No negative accrual options available, no non‑compete
• 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

Pay Range: $160,000 — $180,000 USD

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

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