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!