Shelter Veterinarian

HumanePro; Lakeland (FL); Hybrid; USD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Paid Time Off

6 Paid Holidays

CE Allowance

401(k) Plan

Medical, Dental, Vision plans

Pet care discounts

License fees covered

Job summary

SPCA Florida is seeking a compassionate Shelter Veterinarian to join a mission-driven team in Lakeland, Florida. You will collaborate with technicians and staff to care for homeless animals across Polk County in a positive, progress-focused environment.

The role emphasizes leadership, ongoing learning, and community partnerships within a nonprofit setting that supports animal welfare and public service programs.

Qualifications

• Active, non-restricted veterinary license
• Current DEA license
• Strong leadership skills with a positive, team-oriented mindset
• Passion for building trusting relationships with colleagues, volunteers, and the community
• Commitment to continued learning, skill development, and mentoring staff

Skills

Active veterinary license

Current DEA license

Leadership

Relationship building

Mentoring staff

Commitment to learning

Education

DVM/VMD degree from an AVMA-accredited veterinary school

Job description

HumanePro's biweekly e-newsletter delivers the latest news, training, education opportunities and special offers to help you in your work with animals.

Job Description

Shelter Veterinarian

Changing the world of an animal's life is what we do best.

SPCA Florida is seeking a compassionate and mission-driven Shelter Veterinarian who wants to make a meaningful impact in a positive, collaborative environment. Join our dynamic team and work alongside dedicated technicians and staff who are transforming the lives of homeless animals throughout Polk County.

Our ideal candidate is positive, solution-oriented, and committed to excellence while helping care for animals in need.

About Us

At SPCA Florida, we pride ourselves on fostering a friendly, welcoming culture-we are more than coworkers; we are a family. Our team collaborates closely, supports one another, and shares a deep commitment to animal welfare.

Each year, we:

• Help approximately 4,500 animals find their forever homes
• Operate a robust foster and adoption program
• Manage an active animal transfer program
• Provide community support programs, helping pet owners access food and medical care when facing financial hardship
• Support disaster response efforts through FL SARC, a FEMA-approved emergency response program serving Florida and beyond

Why Lakeland, Florida?

Lakeland offers the perfect blend of affordability, growth, and lifestyle:

• Centrally located between Tampa and Orlando
• Less than an hour from beautiful Gulf and Atlantic beaches
• Access to parks, lakes, trails, and major attractions
• No state income tax
• One of the fastest-growing cities in the U.S., while still maintaining affordable housing and a strong sense of community

Qualifications

• DVM/VMD degree from an AVMA-accredited veterinary school
• Active, non-restricted veterinary license (or ability to obtain)
• Current DEA license (or ability to obtain)
• Strong leadership skills with a positive, team-oriented mindset
• Passion for building trusting relationships with colleagues, volunteers, and the community
• Commitment to continued learning, skill development, and mentoring staff

What We Offer

Competitive Compensation & Benefits Package, including:

• Paid Time Off (120 hours annually)
• 6 Paid Holidays
• Continuing Education Allowance ($2,000 first year + incremental increases annually)
• Paid Continuing Education Days
• 403(b) Retirement Plan
• Employer-sponsored Medical, Dental, and Vision plans
• Employer-paid portion of Medical Insurance
• Basic Life Insurance
• Pet care discounts

We Cover 100% of:

• State Veterinary License
• AVMA Annual Dues
• FVMA Annual Dues
• DEA License Fees
• AVMA PLIT Professional Liability Insurance

Additional Perks

• Flexible scheduling with 4-day or 5-day work week options
• Emphasis on work/life balance
• Opportunities for personalized training and professional growth
• Eligibility for Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) for federal student loans

Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF)

As a nonprofit employer, SPCA Florida qualifies for PSLF. Eligible employees may receive federal student loan forgiveness after 120 qualifying payments. Additional information and required forms are available at StudentAid.gov.

Our Commitment

We believe that a supportive workplace creates stronger outcomes-for our team, our community, and the animals we serve. At SPCA Florida, we are committed to maintaining a balance between professional excellence and a positive, fulfilling work environment.

SPCA Florida is an Equal Opportunity Employer and a Drug-Free Workplace. Background checks are required.

This is a full time job

Contact Information

Job Contact Details

Name Jo Hendon
Title Director of HR
Telephone Number 863-646-7722
Email Address [e-mail]
Website https://www.spcaflorida.org/

Closing Date: Monday, December 28, 2026

Posting Date: October 2, 2026