Associate Veterinarian
Merced Animal Medical Center
Salary: $120,000$140,000 (DOE) + production & benefits
We are a well-established, community-focused veterinary hospital in Californias Central Valley, and were 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 youre 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.
Were open 7 days per week (9am5pm) , with doctors typically working 4-day work weeks, arriving between 78am . Youll almost always be working alongside another experienced DVM , ensuring collaboration and support throughout the day.
Our Doctor Team
Youll 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 1020+ 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 youll 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 Were 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 whos looking to build a long-term home
Why Animal Clinic of Merced?
- Youll 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 youre looking for a place where you can grow your skills, be supported by experienced teammates, and practice meaningful medicine every day, wed love to connect. Apply today!