Veterinary Oncologist DVM

Veterinary Medical Oncologist (DVM) – Santa Cruz, CA | Medical Oncology | $250,000 – $275,000 Base + Sign-On Bonus Up to $125K

Deliver advanced, compassionate cancer care while working with a collaborative specialty team where the redwoods meet the Pacific Ocean in Santa Cruz, California.

A well-established specialty & emergency veterinary hospital in Santa Cruz, California is seeking a full-time Board Certified or Residency Trained Veterinary Medical Oncologist (DVM) to join a collaborative team dedicated to delivering compassionate, high-quality care on the scenic Central Coast.

Why Veterinarians Are Interested in This Role

• Sign-on bonus up to $125,000 (including retention and relocation assistance)
• Competitive base salary: $250,000 – $275,000
• Collaborative, team-oriented culture with local medical autonomy
• Integrated specialty care — partner closely with Surgery, Internal Medicine, and ECC
• Dedicated support staff and high technician utilization
• Comprehensive benefits package with paid parental leave and emotional wellbeing support
• Opportunity to build lasting relationships with clients while providing cutting-edge cancer care

About the Hospital & Practice Environment

This well-established specialty and emergency veterinary hospital in Santa Cruz, California provides comprehensive oncology care, offering an integrated approach to cancer treatment in a supportive, multi-disciplinary environment. The practice is known for its compassionate approach, strong referral relationships, and commitment to high-quality veterinary care. The hospital fosters a culture of collaboration, mutual respect, and joy at work, where specialists work alongside experienced technicians and support staff focused on patient care and team wellbeing.

• Collaborative specialty practice serving oncology patients in close partnership with Surgery, Internal Medicine, and Emergency & Critical Care
• Comprehensive services including diagnostic workups, advanced staging, medical oncology, and client education
• Strong technician and support staff utilization so doctors can focus on medicine
• Established hospital with a loyal referral base across Santa Cruz and the Central Coast
• Collaborative veterinary team that values communication, teamwork, and mutual respect
• Leadership committed to maintaining a supportive and sustainable work environment with local hospital autonomy

Qualifications

• Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM or VMD) from an accredited veterinary school
• Completed a 1-year small animal rotational internship (university or large referral practice)
• Completed a 3-year AVMA-approved residency program in Veterinary Medical Oncology
• Board Certified or Residency Trained in Veterinary Medical Oncology
• Eligible for or currently licensed to practice veterinary medicine in California
• Active DEA registration (or ability to obtain)

Benefits

• Full benefits package including medical, dental, and vision coverage, 401(k) with contribution, PTO, paid parental leave, CE allowance, and pet care perks
• Relocation, signing, and retention packages up to $125,000
• Emotional wellbeing support including Calm app access, 24/7 EAP, and hardship relief funds (Grant Circle)
• Strong technician and support staff utilization so veterinarians can focus on practicing medicine

Location – Santa Cruz, California

Located on the scenic Central Coast of California between the Pacific coastline and the coastal redwoods, Santa Cruz offers a vibrant coastal lifestyle surrounded by natural beauty while maintaining a strong sense of community. The area is known for its outdoor recreation, thriving food and arts scene, and relaxed pace of life.

• Situated between the ocean and the redwoods with easy access to Monterey, San Jose, and the Bay Area
• Easy access to surfing, hiking, mountain biking, beaches, and year-round outdoor recreation
• Surrounded by beautiful coastal landscapes, state parks, and redwood trails
• Charming coastal community with a strong commitment to sustainability, diversity, and work-life balance

For veterinarians who enjoy coastal living, outdoor adventure, and a strong sense of community, Santa Cruz offers the opportunity to practice meaningful medicine while living where others come to escape.