Associate Veterinarian - Surfside Animal Hospital

PetVet Care Centers; Oceanside (CA); On-site; USD 160,000 - 180,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive Salary

Signing, retention, and relocation packages up to $75,000

Medical, dental, and vision insurance

Paid Parental Leave

401(k) with discretionary contribution

Team Member Pet Discounts

Emotional wellbeing support

CE stipends and career development resources

Job summary

A veterinary practice in Oceanside is looking for a compassionate Associate Veterinarian to provide high-quality veterinary care. The ideal candidate will have a degree in veterinary medicine and a current state license, with at least 1 year of experience. Responsibilities include conducting patient examinations, performing surgeries, and collaborating with the medical staff. The position offers a competitive salary range of $160,000—$180,000 and various benefits, including signing and relocation packages up to $75,000.

Qualifications

• Minimum 1 year of experience in a veterinary practice.
• DEA registration must be obtained and maintained.
• Commitment to providing high-quality veterinary care.
• Ability to perform physically demanding tasks and lift up to 50 pounds.

Responsibilities

• Conduct comprehensive patient examinations and medical work‑ups.
• Communicate and educate clients.
• Perform diagnostic procedures and surgery.
• Maintain accurate medical records.
• Collaborate with the Hospital Manager on weekly priorities.

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

Client communication skills

Education

Veterinarian degree (DVM or VMD)

Current State Veterinary License

Job description

Position Overview

We are seeking a compassionate and skilled Associate Veterinarian to join our team. 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 experienced veterinarians, technicians, and support staff and will work closely with the Hospital Manager and Regional Manager.

Our hospital offers general practice medicine and emergency/critical care services performed by experienced emergency veterinarians. General practitioners will handle routine cases while emergency veterinarians manage urgent cases and support you with critical case management.

Benefits

• Competitive Salary
• Quarterly Production No Deficit Carryover
• 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

• Conduct comprehensive patient examinations and medical work‑ups.
• Communicate and educate clients.
• Perform diagnostic procedures and surgery.
• Maintain accurate medical records.
• Carry out pharmacy duties, including prescribing medications and following controlled substance protocols.
• Promote teamwork and staff efficiency.
• Collaborate with the Hospital Manager on weekly priorities and expectations.
• Evaluate and monitor protocols for daily hospital operations from intake to discharge.
• Monitor cases in the hospital, attend daily rounds when possible to ensure the highest standards are 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 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.
• Effective communication with all members of the Medical and Hospital staff.
• Client communication skills: elicit information, establish rapport, and offer explanations with pet owners.
• Display confidence and reassurance when dealing with pets experiencing severe stress, illness, or pain.
• Capability to climb, balance, stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl as required.
• Ability to perform moderately physically demanding tasks and lift up to 50 pounds.

Preferred Skills (Nice to Have)

• Clinical knowledge and skills: examining and assessing animals with cardiovascular, respiratory, orthopedic, neurological, and other examinations; diagnosing and prescribing appropriate treatment.
• Problem‑solving: develop solutions for challenges in managing a high‑quality veterinary hospital.
• Communication: effectively convey diagnostic and therapeutic options to clients and internal staff.
• Professionalism: provide and receive constructive criticism, suggestions, and feedback.
• Business acumen: understand management and finances of the veterinary hospital practice.
• Ethics: knowledge of ethical principles guiding patient decisions.
• Commitment to continuing education: utilize available resources and facilitate learning for others.

Pay Range

$160,000—$180,000 USD

Equal Opportunity Employment

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