Shelter Veterinarian

SPCA Florida; Lakeland (FL); On-site; USD 80,000 - 120,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Paid Time Off (120 hours annually)

Continuing Education Allowance ($2,000 first year)

Employer-sponsored Medical, Dental, and Vision plans

403(b) Retirement Plan

Flexible scheduling options

Job summary

SPCA Florida in Lakeland, Florida, is looking for a compassionate Shelter Veterinarian to make a meaningful impact in animal welfare. The ideal candidate will have a DVM/VMD degree, an active veterinary license, strong leadership skills, and a commitment to teamwork and excellence. The role includes developing trusting relationships with colleagues and the community. This position offers competitive compensation, benefits, and opportunities for professional growth in a supportive environment.

Qualifications

• DVM/VMD degree required.
• Must have an active veterinary license.
• Leadership and teamwork skills essential.

Skills

Leadership skills

Team-oriented mindset

Effective communication

Problem-solving

Education

DVM/VMD degree from an AVMA-accredited veterinary school

Active, non-restricted veterinary license

Current DEA license

Job description

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

We Cover 100% of:

• State Veterinary License
• AVMA Annual Dues
• FVMA Annual Dues
• DEA License Fees
• 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.