Veterinarian

City of Hesperia; Hesperia (CA); On-site; USD 110,000 - 160,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health benefits

CalPERS Pension

Vacation 80 hours

Sick leave 96 hours

Life Insurance

13 holidays

EAP

Deferred compensation 457(b)

Job summary

The City of Hesperia is seeking a dedicated Shelter Veterinarian to deliver medical care, perform surgeries, and oversee vaccinations for animals in our community.

You will manage emergency cases, maintain medical records, and support staff—while promoting responsible pet ownership and building community connections through outreach and adoption events.

Qualifications

• DVM degree from an accredited institution and at least 1 year of veterinary experience in diagnosis, treatment, and surgery.
• Shelter experience preferred.
• California veterinary license and DEA registration within 90 days.

Responsibilities

• Provide expert medical care and perform high-quality spay/neuter surgeries.
• Oversee treatments and vaccinations for stray animals.
• Manage emergency cases and maintain medical records.
• Lead, train, and support shelter staff; promote responsible pet ownership.
• Engage with the community through adoption events and outreach.

Skills

Clinical veterinary skills

Leadership & training

Community outreach

Education

Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM)

Job description

Help shape Hesperia, where rural charm meets opportunity! Join the City of Hesperia's Animal Shelter as a Veterinarian and be part of a team driven by service, integrity, innovation, and efficiency. Help us create a safe, thriving community while experiencing true Hometown Hospitality.

Examples of Duties

We’re looking for a compassionate Shelter Veterinarian to make an impact on the health and well‑being of animals in our community. In this role, you’ll provide expert medical care, perform high-quality spay/neuter surgeries, oversee treatments and vaccinations for stray animals, and manage emergency cases. You’ll establish health protocols, maintain detailed medical records, and ensure safe handling and compliance of medications. As a leader, you’ll support and train staff, promote responsible pet ownership, and build community connections through adoption events and outreach. This unique position combines hands‑on veterinary care, team leadership, and community impact—join us to make a real difference in animal welfare at the City of Hesperia's Animal Shelter.

Bonus Structure

• Sign-On Bonus: New team members are eligible for a one-time $2,500 sign-on bonus, paid after completing their first full pay period. (Subject to applicable taxes and withholdings.)
• Retention Incentive: We’re committed to recognizing your dedication with a retention bonus totaling $50,000 over a 48-month period with continuous employment IAW our bonus Policy.
  • After 6 months: Receive $5,000
  • After 12 months: Receive $10,000
  • After 24 months: Receive $10,000
  • After 48 months: Receive $25, 000

Typical Qualifications

Any education and experience providing the necessary skills and knowledge for a Veterinarian position. Typically, this includes a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) degree from an accredited institution and one year of experience in animal diagnosis, treatment, and surgery in a clinical, private practice, or shelter environment. Relevant clinical experience during veterinary school may qualify. Shelter experience preferred.

Licenses/Certifications

• Current Veterinary Medicine license from the California Board of Examiners.
• DEA license (within 90 days of hire, maintain while employed).

Other Requirements

Must adhere to the City’s Adjusted Workweek Schedule, including assignments on weekends, holidays, nights and rotating shifts. On-call for emergencies and pre-scheduled days to support community service.

Standard Employment Benefits

• Prior Public Service - CalPERS Formula 2.7% @ 55 (Employee contributes 8% (employee cost) and 1% (cost sharing) of annual salary)
• CalPERS Pension Reform Formula 2% @ 62 (Employee contributes 7.75% (normal cost) of annual salary)
• Health Benefits - up to $1,750 per month toward medical, dental and vision insurance
• City Paid
• Employee Only Premium for Dental Insurance
• Employee Only Premium for Vision Insurance
• Life Insurance
• Vacation (80 hours accrued during first year)
• 13 holidays
• Sick leave (96 hours per year)
• Employee Assistance Program available
• 457 (b) Deferred Compensation Program available
• IRS 125 Plan Flexible Spending Accounts available
• Short Term and Long Term Disability Insurance participation required
• Adjusted Workweek Schedule participation required
• The City does not participate in the Social Security program, except for the mandatory 1.45% Medicare Contribution

At Will Senior Management Classifications

• 84 Hours Administrative Leave per fiscal year
• 4% City Contribution into 401 (a) Deferred Compensation Plan

Contracted Benefits to include;

• Designated titles receive cell phone allowance of $100 per month