Associate Veterinarian - Clearlake Veterinary Clinic

Position Overview

We are seeking a compassionate and skilled Associate Veterinarian to join our team at Clearlake Veterinary Clinic in Clearlake, California. 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 experienced veterinarians, technicians, and support staff and collaborate closely with the Hospital Manager and Regional Director.

Why Join Us

• Located in a beautiful, scenic area of Northern California with an affordable small‑town lifestyle and easy access to larger city benefits.
• Efficient support staff allows doctors to focus on patients; community‑centered with outreach programs including the ACME Foundation, Rotary of Lake County, and the Clearlake Police K9 Unit.

What We Offer

• Competitive salary: $130,000 – $150,000 (negotiable based on experience).
• Production incentive plan/bonus structure.
• No negative accrual and no non‑compete.
• Generous sign‑on bonus and relocation assistance.
• Paid time off and holidays.
• Flexible scheduling for work‑life balance.
• Opportunities for professional growth and continuing education, including reimbursement for CE and license fees and time off.
• Full benefits package (health, dental, vision, disability, liability) starting at 30 days.
• 401(k) with company contribution.
• VIN & PLUMB membership.
• Employee pet care discounts.
• Signing, retention, and relocation packages up to $75,000.
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• Paid parental leave (birth, adoption, foster).
• Team member pet discounts.
• Emotional wellbeing support (Calm app access and 24/7 EAP).
• CE stipends and career development resources.
• Grant Circle – relief fund for personal hardship.
• Local hospital culture backed by national resources.

Key Responsibilities

• Comprehensive patient exams and medical work‑ups.
• Client communication and education.
• Perform diagnostic procedures and surgery.
• Maintain accurate medical records.
• Pharmacy duties, including prescribing medications and following controlled substance protocols.
• Promote teamwork and staff efficiency.
• Work with the Hospital Manager on weekly priorities and expectations.
• Evaluate and monitor hospital protocols from intake to discharge.
• Monitor cases and attend daily rounds when possible to ensure high standards.
• Participate in practice management updates and training at all levels.
• Perform 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 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.
• Client communication skills – elicit information, establish rapport, offer explanations to pet owners.
• Display confidence and reassurance when dealing with stressed, ill, or painful pets.
• Physical stamina: may include climbing, balancing, stooping, kneeling, crouching, or crawling.
• Some tasks involve moderately physically demanding work.
• Must be able to lift up to 50 pounds.

Preferred Skills (Nice to Have)

• Clinical knowledge and skills in bodily system examinations and appropriate treatment prescription.
• Problem‑solving and development of solutions for veterinary hospital management.
• Effective communication of diagnostic and therapeutic options to clients and internal staff.
• Professionalism: provide and receive constructive criticism, suggestions, and feedback.
• Business acumen: understand hospital practice management and finances.
• Ethical principles in patient decisions.
• Commitment to continuing education and facilitation of learning for others.

Pay Range

$130,000 – $150,000 USD

Equal Opportunity Employer

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.