Veterinarian

Associate Veterinarian

Merced Animal Medical Center

Salary: $120,000–$140,000 (DOE) + production & benefits

We are a well-established, community-focused veterinary
hospital in California’s Central Valley, and we’re excited to grow our doctor
team. This is a great opportunity for a veterinarian who wants to  practice
high-quality medicine, build real confidence, and be supported every step of
the way —whether you’re a new graduate or an experienced DVM.

About the Hospital
Merced Animal Medical Center is a  well-supported GP
clinic with surgery, urgent care, and emergency services , serving a diverse
and loyal community. The hospital has undergone recent renovations, including  updated
exam rooms and new equipment , and continues to evolve with the needs of our
patients and team in mind.

We’re open  7 days per week (9am–5pm) , with doctors
typically working 4-day work weeks, arriving between  7–8am . You’ll
almost always be working alongside  another experienced DVM , ensuring
collaboration and support throughout the day.

Our Doctor Team
You’ll be joining a knowledgeable, down-to-earth group of
veterinarians, including:

Dr.
Kafka (Managing DVM)  – a long-tenured leader with a strong background
in community practice, surgery, and mentorship

Dr.
Hannigan  – UC Davis graduate with deep ties to the hospital and
community

Dr.
Benson  – sees cats, dogs, and exotics

Dr.
Hayer  – a recent graduate with strong local roots and interests in
behavior, preventative care, and internal medicine

Culture & Support

Well-knit,
collaborative team with  long-tenured staff  (some 10–20+ years)

2:1
tech-to-doctor ratio  with experienced RVTs

Team
engagement meetings

A mix
of seasoned team members and newer staff bringing fresh energy

A
culture built around  support, learning, and doing right by both clients
and teammates
This is a hospital where you’ll  see a lot and do a lot  .
New graduates are given   longer appointment times (up to 1 hour initially)
and mentorship tailored to their comfort level.

The Role

Mix of
appointments, surgery, urgent care, and emergency cases

Soft
tissue and orthopedic surgery performed in-house

In-house
diagnostics and imaging interpretation

Occasional
weekend shifts as part of a shared schedule

Who We’re Looking For

DVM
licensed (or eligible) in California

Open
to  new graduates and experienced veterinarians

Interest
in surgery and urgent care is preferred

Team-oriented,
adaptable, and eager to grow

Someone
who’s looking to build a long-term home

Why Animal Clinic of Merced?

You’ll
gain  hands-on experience across a wide variety of cases

Strong
mentorship and emergency/urgent care support

Almost
always practicing alongside another DVM

A
hospital that values learning, teamwork, and realistic medicine

A
chance to truly make an impact in the community you serve

If you’re looking for a place where you can grow your
skills, be supported by experienced teammates, and practice meaningful medicine
every day, we’d love to connect. Apply today!

National Veterinary Associates is a leading global pet care organization united in the love of animals and the people who love them.
At NVA, we’re on a mission to improve the lives of pets and the people who love them. That starts by empowering our care teams. We nurture their growth with resources to practice medicine their way. Our network of 1,000 hospitals connects them to a community of professionals who share their passion so they can learn and grow together. Our national presence enables us to deliver technology and innovations that simplify work and expand care for all.

At NVA, we're committed to your professional growth. We support your entire career journey, offering opportunities ranging from mentorship to ownership.
NVA offers a comprehensive benefits program including medical, dental, vision, a 401k with employer match, and paid time off (including sick time) for all eligible employees.  The team can provide more information about compensation and benefits for your specific location during the process.  For positions based in Colorado, NVA provides eligible employees with paid sick and safe leave and public health emergency leave in accordance with the requirements of Colorado's Healthy Families and Workplaces Act.
NVA is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, protected veteran or disabled status, or genetic information. Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, Los Angeles Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance, and any other state or local hiring regulations, we will consider for employment any qualified applicant, including those with arrest and conviction records, in a manner consistent with the applicable regulation.