Associate Veterinarian - Ygnacio Animal Hospital

Ygnacioanimalhospital; Walnut Creek (CA); On-site; USD 160,000 - 180,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental, and vision insurance

Paid parental leave

401(k) with discretionary contribution

Emotional wellbeing support

Job summary

Ygnacio Animal Hospital, part of PetVet Care Centers, is looking for an Associate Veterinarian in Walnut Creek, California. The role requires providing high-quality veterinary care, effective communication with clients, and teamwork with hospital management.

Ideal candidates will have a DVM degree, a state veterinary license, and skills in diagnostics and surgery. Compensation includes a salary range of $160,000 to $180,000, along with benefits like paid time off and a sign-on bonus.

Qualifications

• At least 1 year of experience in a veterinary practice.
• Ability to work well in a team-oriented environment.
• Physical ability to lift up to 50 pounds.

Responsibilities

• Conduct extensive patient exams and medical work-ups.
• Perform diagnostic procedures and surgical operations.
• Maintain accurate medical records and comply with protocols.

Skills

Strong diagnostic skills

Excellent surgical and dental skills

Exceptional interpersonal skills

Client communication skills

Education

Veterinarian degree (DVM)

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 Ygnacio Animal Hospital in Walnut Creek, California. The ideal candidate will provide high‑quality veterinary care, communicate effectively with clients and staff, and collaborate closely with the Hospital Manager and Regional Manager.

Key Responsibilities

• Comprehensive patient exams and medical work‑ups
• Client communication and education
• Performing diagnostic procedures and surgery
• Maintaining accurate medical records
• Prescribing medications and following controlled substance protocols
• Promoting teamwork and staff efficiency
• Collaborating with the Hospital Manager on weekly priorities and expectations
• Evaluating and monitoring protocols for daily hospital operations from intake to discharge
• Monitoring cases and attending daily rounds when possible to ensure high standards
• Participating in practice management updates and training at all levels
• Performing other duties as assigned by Management

Required Qualifications

• Veterinarian degree (DVM) from an accredited college or university
• Current State Veterinary License
• DEA registration
• At least 1 year 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 compassionate, high‑quality care
• Ability to communicate effectively with all members of Medical and Hospital staff
• Client communication skills: establishing rapport and providing clear explanations to pet owners
• Confidence and reassurance when dealing with stressed or in‑pain animals
• Physical ability to lift up to 50 pounds and perform tasks such as stooping, kneeling, or crawling as required

Preferred Qualifications

• Demonstrated clinical knowledge in cardiopulmonary, orthopedic, neurological, and other examinations
• Problem‑solving ability for veterinary hospital management challenges
• Skill in communicating diagnostic and therapeutic options to clients and staff
• Professionalism and willingness to give and receive constructive feedback
• Business acumen related to veterinary hospital operations
• Knowledge of ethical principles guiding patient care decisions
• Commitment to continuing education and mentoring others

Compensation Overview

• Salary Range: $160,000 – $180,000
• Sign‑on bonus and relocation assistance available
• No negative accrual; no non‑compete
• Paid time off and holidays

Benefits

• 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 and 24/7 EAP
• CE stipends and career development resources
• Grant Circle – a relief fund for personal hardship
• Local hospital culture backed by national resources

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, disability, military status, or any other basis prohibited by law. EOE, M/F/D/V