Description
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!
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.
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.
