Associate Veterinarian

At Pet Vet 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.

You care for pets. We care for you.

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.

Santa Cruz Veterinary Hospital is a full-service general practice veterinary hospital offering an impressive range of medical services for cats and dogs in Capitola, Santa Cruz, and the surrounding areas. It is our mission to provide state-of-the-art medical care with compassion and exceptional service to our clients. Our brilliant team of smart, caring veterinarians and experienced technicians proudly serve pet owners with high-quality care.

Santa Cruz Veterinary Hospital is a part of the Pet Vet Care Centers network; where each network hospital is unique and connected to its community.

Capitola/Santa Cruz is located on the central California coast. Its long wharf, with eateries and shops, stretches into Monterey Bay. There is a great boardwalk downtown and Pacific Avenue has vintage clothing stores, cafes, and galleries. Along West Cliff Drive, Natural Bridges State Beach is known for its bridge-shaped rock formation. There is something for everyone in Capitola/Santa Cruz!

• Competitive salary: $130,000 $ 150,000 (negotiable based on experience!)
• Production based bonus structure
• No negative accrual and no non‑compete!
• Generous sign‑on bonus and relocation assistance
• Paid time off and holidays
• Flexible scheduling with work‑life balance
• Opportunities for professional growth and continuing education including reimbursement and time off for CE & license fees and more.
• Full benefits package, including but not limited to:
  Health, dental, vision, disability and liability insurance and 401k with company contribution.
• Supportive work environment with a focus on teamwork and collaboration
• Employee pet care discounts

Ready to take the next step? Apply today! For questions or to connect directly, please email your resume to Heather Williams at hw or apply at

• 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.

• 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.
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