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Job description
At PetVet Care Centers, our mission is to improve the lives of animals and people — providing exceptional and compassionate care at every stage — for all the moments that matter.
Because life is better with pets.
We deliver the Ultimate Care Experience — every pet, every client, every time. That starts with a Culture of Care that supports our team members as much as the pets and clients we serve.
With more than 420 locally led hospitals and over 11,000 team members nationwide , we offer:
Local autonomy with national support
Career mobility and development opportunities
A collaborative, inclusive environment where your wellbeing comes first
You care for pets. We care for you.
Position Overview
We are seeking a compassionate and skilled Associate Veterinarian 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.
Montecito Pet Hospital in beautiful Santa Barbara, California is a comprehensive small animal practice. You cannot beat our hospital's friendly & professional culture as we have a 4.9-star rating on Google! Our ideal candidate will have an interest in dentistry to complement their general practice surgical skills and client service.
Why Join Us
Our well-trained team members will allow you to focus on being a doctor and not technician, allowing you to make a difference in the lives of pets and our clients.
Located on a pristine stretch of California’s central coastline, Santa Barbara brings together the Golden State’s Spanish influence, laid-back vibe, and upscale sensibility in a way few places can.
What We Offer
We care deeply about supporting our team members — professionally and personally. Benefits include:
Signing, retention, and relocation packages up to $75,000
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
Comprehensive patient exams and medical work-ups
Client communication and education
Performing diagnostic procedures and surgery
Maintaining accurate medical records
Pharmacy duties such as prescribing medications to patients and following controlled substance protocols
Promote teamwork and staff efficiency
Work with the Hospital Manager on weekly priorities and expectations
Evaluate and monitor protocols for the daily running of the hospital from intake to discharge
Monitor cases in the hospital and attend daily rounds when possible to be sure the highest standards are being upheld
Participate in practice management updates and training at all levels
Performs other duties as assigned by Management.
Qualifications (Required)
Veterinarian degree (DVM or VMD) from an accredited college or university
Current State Veterinary License
DEA registration must be obtained and maintained
1+ years of experience in a veterinary practice
Strong diagnostic and clinical skills.
Excellent surgical and dental skills.
Ability to work well in a team-oriented environment.
Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills.
Commitment to providing compassionate and high-quality veterinary care.
Excellent Communication Skills and the ability to communicate effectively, efficiently, and in a timely manner with all members of the Medical and Hospital staff.
Client communication skills, must be able to elicit information, establish rapport, offer explanations with pet owners.
Display confidence and reassurance when dealing with pets experiencing severe stress, illness, or pain.
May include some climbing, balancing, stooping, kneeling, crouching, or crawling.
Some tasks involve the periodic performance of moderately physically demanding work.
Position does require the ability to lift up to 50 pounds.
Preferred Skills (Nice to Have)
Clinical Knowledge and Skills: Demonstrate clinical knowledge and skill in examining and assessing animals. Perform cardiovascular, respiratory, orthopedic, neurological and other necessary examinations. Diagnosis and prescribe appropriate treatment.
Problem-Solving: Ability to develop solutions to challenges relating to the management of a high-quality veterinary hospital.
Communication Skills: Demonstrate effective communication of diagnostic and therapeutic options to clients. Display effective communication with internal medical and hospital staff.
Professionalism: Work as part of a high-quality, professional veterinary team with the ability to provide and receive appropriate constructive criticism, suggestions, and feedback.
Business Acumen: Ability to understand the management and finances of the veterinary hospital practice.
Ethics: Knowledge and understanding of ethical principles that guide decisions affecting patients.
Commitment to Continuing Education: Commitment to utilize available resources of continuing education and to facilitate learning of others.
Pay Range
$150,000 — $185,000 USD
At PetVet Care Centers, we’re committed to a Culture of Care — for pets, for the people who love them, and for the team members who make it all possible. With more than 420 hospitals across the U.S. and a team of over 11,000 dedicated professionals , including 1700+ veterinarians , we offer a unique blend of local leadership and national support that helps our hospitals thrive.
Our model is built on partnership, collaboration, and local medical autonomy , empowering each hospital to deliver high-quality care while benefiting from shared resources and a strong professional community. Whether you’re providing care in a hospital or supporting operations behind the scenes, PetVet is a place where you can grow your career, stay connected to your purpose, and make a meaningful impact.
Why Consider Our Montecito Hospital?
At Montecito Pet Hospital, our team members all share the same passion for making and keeping animals healthy.
Our hospital truly is an excellent place to work, with a highly skilled team focused on 'best in practice' veterinary care.
We are very supportive of individuals looking to grow their veterinary careers and look forward to hearing from you.
We invite you to explore your veterinary career options with Montecito Pet Hospital, where you'll be a respected member of a team that loves animals and values the contributions from every individual on the team.
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/mental disabilities, military status or any other basis prohibited by law. EOE, M/F/D/V
PetVet respects your privacy and is committed to protecting your personal information. Please see our privacy notice for additional information about our data practices.
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Worksite address
santa barbara, CA, 93190, US
Who can apply
Review the original listing for work authorization, qualifications and employer requirements.