Veterinarian

Associate Veterinarian – Mentorship, Flexible Schedule, Exotics & Fear‑Free Medicine

Southwest Illinois | Near St. Louis, MO

Looking for a veterinary hospital where you can practice high‑quality medicine, have autonomy in your cases, and still have time to enjoy life outside of work?

We are seeking an Associate Veterinarian to join our collaborative 4‑doctor practice in southwest Illinois, just outside St. Louis. We are open to both full‑time and part‑time veterinarians and are happy to create a schedule that works for the right fit. Whether you are a new graduate seeking strong mentorship, an experienced veterinarian looking for more flexibility, or someone seeking a supportive, well‑equipped hospital, we would love to connect.

We are a well‑established, AAHA‑accredited, full‑service small animal hospital providing medical, surgical, and dental care for dogs, cats, exotics, reptiles, and pocket pets. Our caseload includes wellness care, preventive medicine, diagnostics, dentistry, and surgery.

Led by Managing Veterinarian Dr. Amy Edgar, our team values collaboration, clinical growth, and strong day‑to‑day mentorship for newer doctors, including hands‑on guidance in medicine, surgery, and case management.

We also utilize Fear‑Free handling techniques to improve patient comfort and create a better experience for pets, clients, and staff.

Mentorship Opportunities

New graduates receive daily, hands‑on guidance from Dr. Edgar and the hospital team, paired with structured support through NVA. In addition, new graduates will participate in NVA’s 12‑month General Practice Mentorship Program, led by Dr. Larry Hill, designed to complement in‑hospital training and support early‑career veterinarians as they build confidence in day‑to‑day practice. The program includes one‑on‑one mentorship with Dr. Hill, a cohort of new graduate veterinarians across Illinois, and structured wellness programming focused on stress management and building a sustainable career in veterinary medicine.

Schedule & Work‑Life Balance

Full‑time, part‑time, and reduced schedule options are available.

• 4‑day work week options available
• Flexible scheduling options
• No on‑call shifts
• Closed on Sundays
• One 3‑day weekend off per month (Saturday–Monday)
• Rotating Saturdays

Compensation & Benefits

Base salary: $100,000–$130,000 , depending on schedule & experience, plus production bonuses.

• No negative accrual
• Sign‑on and/or retention bonuses
• Annual CE allowance and CE days
• Relocation assistance
• Medical, dental, vision, and ancillary benefits
• Life and disability insurance (including company‑paid short‑term disability)
• 401(k) with company match
• Paid time off, holidays, and sick days
• State license, DEA, and professional membership dues covered

Hospital Overview

• Eight exam rooms
• Dedicated surgical suite
• Digital dental and full‑body radiology
• Fully stocked pharmacy
• Diverse caseload (dogs, cats, exotics, reptiles, pocket pets)
• Services from wellness care to advanced diagnostics and dentistry
• Separate comfort room for clients

Located just outside St. Louis, Missouri, enjoy a balance of community living with access to restaurants, sports, entertainment, and outdoor activities.

If you are looking for a hospital where you can grow clinically, feel supported, and maintain work‑life balance, we would love to connect.

Learn More: Northgate Small Animal Hospital