Shelter Veterinarian (Veterinary Surgeon)- Per Diem

County of Riverside; California; On-site; Part time

Job summary

A governmental entity in California seeks a Per Diem Shelter Veterinarian to perform surgeries, oversee medical care, and provide treatment for shelter animals. Key responsibilities include spaying/neutering animals, conducting small surgeries, and supervising technical staff. Candidates must have a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree and a valid CA veterinary license. This position offers an opportunity to work in a supportive environment dedicated to animal welfare, with the ability to impact the lives of shelter animals.

Qualifications

• DVM from accredited veterinary medical school.
• Valid California veterinary license (or obtain within 12 months).
• Ability to perform surgeries and diagnose diseases.

Responsibilities

• Perform spay/neuter surgeries on shelter and private animals.
• Conduct small animal surgeries to enhance adoptability.
• Provide medical oversight for shelter animals.

Skills

Medical treatment administration

Surgical skills

Effective public interaction

Knowledge of veterinary practices

Education

Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM)

Valid license to practice veterinary medicine in California

Job description

Shelter Veterinarian (Veterinary Surgeon) – Per Diem

The County of Riverside Human Resources Temporary Assignment Program (TAP) seeks a Veterinary Surgeon – Per Diem to support the Department of Animal Services at Jurupa, San Jacinto, and Thousand Palms locations.

Responsibilities

• Perform spay/ neuter surgeries (25–40 per day) on shelter animals and privately owned pets.
• Conduct other small animal surgeries, including soft tissue and orthopedic procedures, to improve animal care and adoptability.
• Provide medical oversight of impounded animals.
• Examine, develop treatment plans, and oversee the medical progress of sick and injured shelter animals.
• Administer anesthesia, medications, and perform immunizations for disease control.
• Perform post‑mortem examinations to document pathological findings for animal cruelty cases and community health.
• Maintain meticulous medical records and prepare reports and correspondence.
• Supervise and train veterinary technicians, animal care staff, and clerical personnel in animal care and procedures.
• Manage medicinal and surgical supplies and ensure all clinic equipment and requisitions are adequately maintained.

Minimum Qualifications

• Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) from an accredited veterinary medical school.
• Valid license to practice veterinary medicine in the State of California (license may be obtained within 12 months of hire if not yet held).
• Valid California Driver’s License.
• Ability to administer medical treatment, perform surgeries, diagnose diseases, and interact effectively with the public.
• Knowledge of modern veterinary medicine practices for small animals (dogs, cats) and understanding of licensing, quarantine, and impounding regulations.
• Physical ability to work in environments with animal odor, dander, fluids/wounds, and aggressive animals; experience with euthanasia and animal handling.
• Preferred experience in shelter medicine and high‑volume spay/neuter procedures.

Additional Requirements

For specific questions regarding this position, contact Brian Arcinas at [e-mail].

Equal Opportunity Employer

The County of Riverside is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All applicants will be considered without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, marital status, ancestry, or medical condition.