Veterinary Extern

University Veterinary Hospital & Diagnostic Center

Job Description

Hands‑on clinical externship in a busy, high‑quality general practice with on‑site housing in one of Salt Lake City’s most desirable neighborhoods.

Clinical‑year students looking for a true hands‑on externship in a high‑quality general practice will find an exceptional learning experience at University Veterinary Hospital & Diagnostic Center. From a busy and varied caseload to on‑site housing, this externship is designed to immerse students in real‑world medicine while feeling supported every step of the way.

About the Hospital
University Veterinary Hospital & Diagnostic Center is an AAHA‑accredited, multi‑doctor small animal practice that has served the Salt Lake City community since 1992. Located on the iconic 9th & 9th corner in the very popular, walkable neighborhood of 9th & 9th / Liberty Park, the hospital is known for high standards of medicine, a collaborative team culture, and a busy, diverse caseload that provides strong hands‑on learning opportunities for clinical‑year students.

About the Location
This externship is a great fit for students looking for both strong clinical experience and a destination rotation. The hospital is just minutes from downtown Salt Lake City, Liberty Park, and the University of Utah, with easy access to local restaurants, coffee shops, and outdoor recreation including hiking and skiing in the nearby Wasatch Mountains. On‑site housing is provided in an apartment located on the second floor of the hospital that shares space with the team break room and offers convenient accommodations throughout the externship.

About the Mentor
Externs work closely with Dr. Rachel Walton, the hospital’s Medical Director. Dr. Walton began her career at University Veterinary Hospital & Diagnostic Center as a veterinary technician before attending veterinary school, then returned after earning her DVM to join the team as an associate veterinarian. She has since grown into hospital leadership, bringing a practical, supportive mentorship style shaped by real experience as a technician, student, and practicing veterinarian. 

Externship Details
Class of 2026 spots have been filled. 

Externship rotations at University Veterinary Hospital & Diagnostic Center typically range from two to four weeks, depending on student and hospital schedules. Veterinary students in the clinical portion of their education are encouraged to apply and are eligible for a $3,000 travel stipend.


National Veterinary Associates is a leading global pet care organization united in the love of animals and the people who love them.

At NVA, we’re on a mission to improve the lives of pets and the people who love them. That starts by empowering our care teams. We nurture their growth with resources to practice medicine their way. Our network of 1,000 hospitals connects them to a community of professionals who share their passion so they can learn and grow together. Our national presence enables us to deliver technology and innovations that simplify work and expand care for all. At NVA, we're committed to your professional growth. We support your entire career journey, offering opportunities ranging from mentorship to ownership.

At National Veterinary Associates, we want to make sure your experience connecting with us is seamless and straightforward. Here’s what to expect when interacting with us:
 
We’ll always reach out via verified LinkedIn profiles or emails ending in @nva.com
All job opportunities and applications are hosted on our official careers site: careers.nva.com
There is no cost or confidential information required to apply or be considered for a position
 
If you have any doubts about a communication, feel free to visit our careers page to verify authenticity or email us at hiringhub@nva.com. Thank you for exploring opportunities at NVA!

NVA offers a comprehensive benefits program including medical, dental, vision, a 401k with employer match, and paid time off (including sick time) for all eligible employees.  The team can provide more information about compensation and benefits for your specific location during the process.  For positions based in Colorado, NVA provides eligible employees with paid sick and safe leave and public health emergency leave in accordance with the requirements of Colorado's Healthy Families and Workplaces Act.
 
NVA is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, protected veteran or disabled status, or genetic information. Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, Los Angeles Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance, and any other state or local hiring regulations, we will consider for employment any qualified applicant, including those with arrest and conviction records, in a manner consistent with the applicable regulation.