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Associate Veterinarian - Full-time/Part-time

Pawmetto Lifeline

Job Description

Associate Veterinarian (Full-Time or Part-Time)
Practice Medicine That Matters
Join Pawmetto Lifeline and become part of a mission-driven veterinary team transforming access to care for pets and families throughout Columbia and beyond.
As an AAHA-accredited, no-kill organization, Pawmetto Lifeline believes no pet should suffer from a treatable condition simply because of financial limitations. Our veterinarians practice high-quality, compassionate medicine in a fast-paced, collaborative environment where every case truly matters.
We are seeking an experienced Associate Veterinarian who is passionate about accessible veterinary medicine, enjoys surgical and medical variety, and thrives in an environment focused on patient outcomes—not production quotas.
Compensation & Benefits
Full-Time Veterinarians
Starting salary of $150,000+ annually
$7,500 Retention Bonus paid quarterly
Relocation assistance up to $5,000
$10,000 Annual Debt Relief Payment after each completed 12-month period of employment
IRA with company match
Comprehensive health, dental, vision, and life insurance
Company-paid short-term disability
Paid parental leave
Annual continuing education stipend
Professional development support
Experienced veterinary technician support team
No production quotas or revenue-based compensation
Part-Time Veterinarians
Competitive compensation based on desired hours and experience
Flexible scheduling opportunities
Continuing education support and additional benefits available
About the Role
This is not a traditional private practice position.
Our veterinarians practice access-to-care medicine in a dynamic, high-volume setting that combines general practice, urgent care, surgery, and community outreach. The role is ideal for veterinarians who enjoy variety, independent case management, and the opportunity to make a meaningful difference every day.
The primary focus of this position includes:
Wellness and preventive care
Sick visits and medical case management
Dentistry
Diagnostics and treatment planning
Soft tissue surgery
Same-day urgent and emergency medical support
Our team prioritizes exceptional patient care while working compassionately with clients facing financial limitations.
What You’ll Do
Medical Responsibilities
Perform comprehensive physical examinations and diagnostics
Develop and implement treatment plans
Manage wellness and preventive care appointments
Accommodate urgent walk-in and same-day emergency cases
Interpret digital radiographs, ultrasound imaging, cytology, and laboratory results
Communicate clearly and compassionately with clients regarding treatment options and financial considerations
Surgical Responsibilities
Perform surgical procedures independently, including:
Canine and feline spay/neuter
Mass removals
Foreign body surgeries
Enucleations
Limb amputations
Femoral Head Ostectomy (FHO)
Dentistry and extractions
Team & Community Support
Collaborate closely with veterinary technicians and support staff
Support mobile vaccine clinic initiatives as needed
Maintain accurate and thorough medical records
Contribute to a positive, mission-focused culture
What We’re Looking For
The ideal candidate is compassionate, efficient, adaptable, and confident practicing independently in a fast-paced environment.
Qualifications
Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM/VMD) degree from an AVMA-accredited veterinary school or equivalent
Five years’ experience in a private practice general care clinic
Active veterinary license (or ability to obtain prior to start date)
Current DEA registration
Controlled Substance License (if applicable)
USDA Category I Accreditation or completion within two months of hire
Demonstrated ability to independently manage medical and surgical cases
Strong communication and clinical decision-making skills
Ability to remain professional and compassionate during emotional or high-pressure situations
Valid U.S. driver’s license
Why Columbia, South Carolina?
Located in the heart of South Carolina, Columbia offers an outstanding quality of life with vibrant entertainment, excellent restaurants, museums, theaters, outdoor recreation, easy access to beaches and mountains, and a vibrant growing community.
Be Part of Something Bigger
Our 27,000-square-foot facility is more than a veterinary clinic—it is a lifesaving community resource providing accessible care, advanced surgical services, outreach programs, and innovative solutions that impact more than 60,000 pets annually.
At Pawmetto Lifeline, you will have the opportunity to practice meaningful medicine, save lives daily, and help reshape the future of veterinary access-to-care services.
Apply today and help us create a future where every pet receives the care they deserve.
Curious but not ready to apply? Reach out for a confidential conversation or schedule a facility tour—we’d love to show you what makes Pawmetto Lifeline different.