Veterinary Criticalist - The Regional Veterinary Referral Center

Vetreferralcenter; Springfield (VA); On-site; USD 180,000 - 250,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Signing, retention, and relocation package up to $100,000

Medical, dental, and vision insurance

Paid parental leave

Job summary

Vetreferralcenter in Springfield, Virginia is seeking a Board-Certified or Residency Trained Veterinary Criticalist to provide high-quality veterinary care. The candidate should have strong diagnostic skills, excellent communication, and the ability to work in a team. Responsibilities include conducting patient exams, educating clients, and maintaining medical records. A supportive work environment, competitive pay, and comprehensive benefits including signing bonuses and CE stipends are offered.

Qualifications

• Commitment to providing compassionate and high-quality veterinary care.
• Effective client communication skills, including building rapport.
• Physical ability to lift up to 50 pounds.

Responsibilities

• Conduct comprehensive patient exams and medical work‑ups.
• Communicate and educate clients.
• Maintain accurate medical records.

Skills

Strong diagnostic and clinical skills

Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills

Ability to work well in a team‑oriented environment

Education

Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM or VMD)

1-year rotational internship in small animal medicine, surgery, or emergency/critical care

Completed a 3-year AVMA-approved residency program

Current state veterinary license

Job description

Position Overview

We are seeking a dedicated Board‑Certified or Residency Trained Veterinary Criticalist to join our team. The ideal candidate will be passionate about providing high‑quality veterinary care and possess excellent communication skills to build lasting relationships with our clients. You will work alongside a team of experienced veterinarians, technicians, and support staff and will work closely with the Hospital Manager and Regional Manager.

About the Regional Veterinary Referral Center

The Regional Veterinary Referral Center (RVRC) in Springfield, Virginia offers 24/7 emergency and critical care and provides specialty services consisting of Surgery, Internal Medicine, Medical Oncology, Critical Care, Dermatology, Neurology, Cardiology, Radioiodine, and Physical Rehabilitation. The RVRC is centrally located near Washington DC and receives referrals from across the Mid‑Atlantic region. In addition to our specialties, the center houses an I‑131 treatment center (Radiocat), ultrasound, digital radiography, linear accelerator, CT and an MRI unit. The in‑house diagnostic center allows you to get rapid and accurate patient analytic data to make informed patient decisions.

Why Join Us

• Support from a dedicated Hospital Manager who cares about the well‑being of every employee
• Emphasis on work‑life balance, feedback and mentorship
• Collaborative approach to hospital growth and visionary direction

What We Offer

• Signing, retention and relocation package up to $100,000
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• Paid parental leave (birth, adoption, foster)
• 401(k) with discretionary contribution
• Team member pet discounts
• Emotional wellbeing support – including Calm app access and 24/7 EAP
• CE stipends and career development resources
• Grant Circle – a relief fund for team members facing personal hardship
• Local hospital culture backed by national resources

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct comprehensive patient exams and medical work‑ups
• Communicate and educate clients
• Maintain accurate medical records
• Prescribe medications and follow controlled substance protocols
• Promote teamwork and staff efficiency
• Collaborate with the Hospital Manager on weekly priorities and expectations
• Evaluate and monitor protocols for daily hospital operations from intake to discharge
• Monitor cases in the hospital and attend daily rounds to ensure the highest standards are upheld
• Participate in practice management updates and training at all levels
• Perform other duties as assigned by management

Qualifications (Required)

• Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM or VMD) from an accredited university
• 1‑year rotational internship in small animal medicine, surgery, or emergency/critical care
• Completed a 3‑year AVMA‑approved residency program
• Current state veterinary license
• DEA registration obtained and maintained
• Strong diagnostic and clinical skills
• Ability to work well in a team‑oriented environment
• Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills
• Commitment to providing compassionate and high‑quality veterinary care
• Effective client communication skills, including building rapport and providing explanations
• Confidence and reassurance when dealing with stressed, ill, or painful pets
• Physical ability to lift up to 50 pounds and perform moderate physically demanding tasks such as climbing, balancing, stooping, kneeling, crouching, or crawling as required

Preferred Skills (Nice to Have)

• Board certification
• 2‑5 years of experience post‑residency
• Demonstrated clinical knowledge and skill in examining and assessing animals
• Experience in cardiovascular, respiratory, orthopedic, neurological, and other necessary examinations
• Problem‑solving ability to address challenges in veterinary hospital management
• Effective communication of diagnostic and therapeutic options to clients and internal staff
• Professionalism in a high‑quality veterinary team, including constructive feedback
• Business acumen and understanding of veterinary hospital finances
• Knowledge of ethical principles guiding patient care decisions
• Commitment to continuing education and facilitating learning for others

Pay Range

$180,000 — $250,000 USD

Contact

Ready to take the next step? Please email your resume to Julia Stephens at [e-mail] for questions or to connect directly.

Equal Opportunity Statement

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 or mental disabilities, military status or any other basis prohibited by law. EOE, M/F/D/V

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