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Description
A Leadership Role, On Your Terms:
As the sole veterinarian leading the day-to-day of our clinic, you have a rare opportunity to shape our clinical approach, refine processes, and own the operations of our medical program. You are trusted to make decisions and work as a leader within the broader organization, with the autonomy to practice the way you believe is best.
For the right candidate, there is also room to grow this role beyond the clinic walls – building out a visiting vet program, deepening community education, or expanding the scope of services we offer. None of that is required. If you simply want to focus on excellent medicine in a supportive environment, that works too.
You will spend much of your time performing spay and neuter surgeries, along with general medical care for shelter animals. When needed, you will also take on additional surgical cases from neighboring shelters and rescue groups.
We also provide low-cost services to the public. When time and space allow, you may perform surgeries for owned animals whose families cannot access or afford care elsewhere.
You will work closely with two experienced veterinary assistants in a small, efficient clinic. The space is compact, but organized and functional.
Requirements
*Doctor of Veterinary Medicine from an accredited veterinary school
*Current California veterinary license in good standing, or ability to obtain California licensure prior to employment (MCHS covers yearly cost after employment)
*DEA license, or ability to obtain one (MCHS covers yearly cost after employment)
*Ability to perform high-volume spay/neuter surgeries for dogs and cats
*Ability to diagnose and treat common medical conditions in shelter and community animals
*Strong surgical, medical, and anesthesia skills
*Commitment to humane animal care and the mission of a no-kill animal shelter
*Ability to work independently and make sound medical decisions
*Strong communication and interpersonal skills when working with staff, volunteers, clients, and rescue partners
*Comfortable working in a fast-paced environment with limited resources
*Ability to maintain accurate medical records and comply with veterinary regulations
*Experience with shelter medicine, high-volume spay/neuter, or community clinic work preferred but not required
*New graduates with strong surgical interest and a passion for animal welfare are encouraged to apply
Why This Role is Different:
There are no quotas and no production pressure. You are trusted to practice good medicine and make decisions based on what is best for the animals. The work is steady, but purposeful, and has a direct impact on the community. This role is an ideal fit for a veterinarian who wants meaningful work, values autonomy, and is comfortable with surgery or interested in building those skills.
Schedule & Workflow
Typical hours are 8:30 AM through the end of the day. Most days include between 4 and 12 surgeries, depending on the case mix and available recovery space. You are a salaried employee and trusted to manage your time and workflow.
Because we are responsible for our shelter animals, there may be times when you need to return after hours or assist on a weekend if something urgent comes up. Our veterinary assistants provide weekend coverage, and we work together to coordinate time off.