Part Time Emergency Veterinarian

Pacificsantacruzvet; Santa Cruz (CA); On-site; USD 210,000 - 220,000; Part time

Benefits offered by this job

Signing and retention incentives up to

CE stipend

Licensing and dues reimbursement

Emotional wellbeing support (Calm app,

Supportive home hospital environment

Job summary

Pacific & Santa Cruz Veterinary Specialists is seeking a Part-Time Emergency Veterinarian in Santa Cruz, CA. The role emphasizes flexible scheduling within a locally led hospital supported by national resources, offering a balanced pace for clinicians who want to stay clinically active.

You will join a team focused on compassionate, high‑quality care while maintaining work‑life balance. The hospital provides strong collaboration, ongoing education, and a Culture of Care for pets, clients, and

Qualifications

• DVM or VMD from an accredited college/university.
• Current State Veterinary License.
• DEA registration must be obtained and maintained.
• 1+ years of experience in emergency practice.
• Strong diagnostic and clinical skills.
• Excellent surgical and dental skills.
• Ability to work well in a team.

Responsibilities

• Perform comprehensive patient exams and medical work-ups.
• Communicate with clients and educate on care plans.
• Conduct diagnostic procedures and surgeries as needed.
• Maintain accurate medical records.
• Handle pharmacy duties and controlled substances protocols.
• Promote teamwork and staff efficiency.
• Support hospital management on weekly priorities and training.
• Monitor protocols from intake to discharge.

Skills

Emergency care

Surgical skills

Dental skills

Teamwork

Communication

Education

DVM/VMD degree

Job description

Part Time Emergency Veterinarian | Pacific & Santa Cruz Veterinary Specialists

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.

Because life is better with pets.

We deliver the Ultimate Care Experience — every pet, every client, every time. That starts with a Culture of Care that supports our team members as much as the pets and clients we serve.

With more than 400 locally led hospitals and over 11,000 team members nationwide, we offer:

• Local autonomy with national support
• Career mobility and development opportunities
• A collaborative, inclusive environment where your wellbeing comes first

You care for pets. We care for you.

Position Overview

Care for pets. Maintain balance and flexibility. Nurture ongoing care.

Join our team as a Part-Time Veterinarian with predictable hours and a consistent home hospital assignment. You’ll enjoy flexibility while working alongside a locally led care team supported by national resources.

Whether you’re balancing family commitments, pursuing personal interests, or simply seeking a more sustainable pace, we’re here to support you. This role allows you to stay clinically engaged without sacrificing balance, connection, or continuity of care. We’re flexible, open to conversation, and committed to understanding your availability and goals—and building a schedule that works for both you and the hospital.

At Pacific and Santa Cruz Veterinary Specialists, we foster a unique, supportive culture where collaboration, mutual respect, and enjoying our work environment are key values. We believe in making a difference for our patients and clients while genuinely enjoying the company of our colleagues.

Santa Cruz, CA, is nestled between the stunning Pacific coastline and lush redwood forests, is a dynamic city known for its laid‑back lifestyle, active outdoor scene, and thriving tech, education, and creative industries. Whether you're surfing in the morning, hiking scenic trails, or enjoying local art and culture, Santa Cruz offers a unique blend of relaxation and opportunity. Join us and become part of a community that values sustainability, diversity, and work‑life balance!

• Compensation for Part Time roles is prorated based on experience and hours/shifts worked. Salary ranges listed in this posting reflect full-time roles.

We care deeply about supporting our team members — professionally and personally. Benefits include:

• Signing and retention incentives up to $50,000
• CE stipend
• Licensing and dues reimbursement
• Emotional wellbeing support, including Calm app access and 24/7 EAP
• A supportive home hospital environment, backed by national resources and a strong Culture of Care

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
• Performs 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 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)

• Clinical Knowledge and Skills: Demonstrate clinical knowledge and skill in examining and assessing animals. Perform cardiovascular, respiratory, orthopedic, neurological and other necessary examinations. Diagnosis 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.

Pay Range

$210,000 — $220,000 USD

At PetVet Care Centers, we’re committed to a Culture of Care — for pets, for the people who love them, and for the team members who make it all possible. With more than 400 hospitals across the U.S. and a team of over 11,000 dedicated professionals, including 1700+ veterinarians, we offer a unique blend of local leadership and national support that helps our hospitals thrive.

Our model is built on partnership, collaboration, and local medical autonomy, empowering each hospital to deliver high‑quality care while benefiting from shared resources and a strong professional community. Whether you’re providing care in a hospital or supporting operations behind the scenes, PetVet is a place where you can grow your career, stay connected to your purpose, and make a meaningful impact.

You care for pets. We care for you.

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

PetVet respects your privacy and is committed to protecting your personal information. Please see our privacy notice for additional information about our data practices.

Why Consider Our Santa Cruz Hospital?

At Pacific & Santa Cruz Veterinary Specialists, our team members all share the same passion for making and keeping animals healthy.

Our hospital truly is an excellent place to work, with a highly skilled team focused on 'best in practice' veterinary care.

We are very supportive of individuals looking to grow their veterinary careers and look forward to hearing from you.

We invite you to explore your veterinary career options with Pacific & Santa Cruz Veterinary Specialists, where you'll be a respected member of a team that loves animals and values the contributions from every individual on the team.