Veterinarian

The PAW Mission

Job Description

The Veterinarian (General Practice) provides high-quality, accessible veterinary care in a nonprofit/community medicine setting. This role is ideal for a confident early-career or experienced veterinarian who can independently manage a full clinical day while working within a collaborative, mission-driven environment. Services include wellness care, community medicine, spay/neuter (as applicable), and dentistry, with a strong emphasis on efficiency, client education, and compliance with California veterinary regulations.

This position is new‑graduate friendly, provided the candidate is comfortable running a day independently with appropriate support staff.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

Independently manage and oversee a full clinical day, including medical decision-making and patient flow

Perform comprehensive physical examinations and develop diagnostic and treatment plans

Provide preventative and wellness care, including vaccinations, parasite control, and client education

Diagnose and manage common medical conditions and chronic disease

Perform routine surgical procedures as applicable to the role, including:

Spay/neuter (as scheduled or assigned)

Dentistry, including dental exams and routine extractions (advanced procedures as trained)

Interpret laboratory diagnostics, imaging, and in-house test results

Prescribe, dispense, and administer medications in compliance with California law

Ensure accurate, timely, and compliant medical records per VMB standards

Communicate clearly and compassionately with clients, including treatment options, consent, estimates, and discharge instructions

Supervise and collaborate with RVTs, veterinary assistants, and support staff

Maintain compliance with:

California Veterinary Practice Act

California Veterinary Medical Board (VMB) regulations

DEA and controlled substance requirements

OSHA and workplace safety standards

Support community-focused initiatives, including low-cost services, shelter partnerships, and access-to-care programs

Participate in quality improvement, protocol development, and continuing education

Required Qualifications

Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM or VMD) degree from an AVMA-accredited institution

Active California veterinary license (or ability to obtain prior to start date)

Ability to independently manage a full clinical day

DEA registration (or ability to obtain)

Strong foundational medical and surgical skills appropriate for general practice

Excellent communication and time-management skills

Commitment to ethical, accessible veterinary care and community service

Preferred Qualifications

Experience or strong interest in nonprofit, shelter, or community medicine

Experience with spay/neuter and/or high-volume environments

Dental experience, including routine extractions

Bilingual (English/Spanish) strongly preferred but not required

Prior experience supervising or mentoring support staff

Physical & Work Requirements

Ability to stand for extended periods in a clinical setting

Ability to lift and restrain animals up to ___ lbs with assistance

Manual dexterity sufficient for examinations, dentistry, and surgical procedures

Ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced, high-impact environment

Schedule & Compensation

Full-time or Part-time (specify)

Daytime clinic hours (no or limited on-call/emergency work, if applicable)

Competitive salary commensurate with experience

Benefits may include:

Health insurance

Paid time off and sick leave (per California requirements)

Continuing education allowance and paid CE days

DEA and license fee coverage

Malpractice insurance

Retirement plan options

Employee pet care benefits

Work Environment & Culture

Our organization is a mission-driven nonprofit committed to expanding access to veterinary care. We value collaboration, efficiency, mentorship, and compassion—for both clients and staff. This role offers meaningful community impact while maintaining high medical standards.

Equal Opportunity Statement

We are an equal opportunity employer and are committed to fostering an inclusive and respectful workplace. All qualified applicants will be considered without regard to protected characteristics.