NVA

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!