Animal Assistant Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

The Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences in the College of Veterinary Medicine at Iowa State University invites applications for a full-time faculty position in the small animal surgery section of the Lloyd Veterinary Medical Center (LVMC). We are in search of a small animal surgeon who is passionate about advancing the art of veterinary surgery and providing the highest level of care available to a large patient population coming from all corners of the Midwest. With a growing, vibrant, and cohesive group of faculty members in specialties including cardiology, dentistry, dermatology, emergency and critical care, radiology, internal medicine, ophthalmology, as well as medical and radiation oncology, the LVMC offers an incredible environment for collaboration, cross pollination, and innovative care and treatment of patients. This is bolstered by strong leadership in both the Department and the LVMC with administrators who continue to practice in clinics and truly embodies the spirit of the servant leader.

Unlike many traditional academic positions, the opportunities at ISU are boundless in many respects. Though the clinical service is divided between soft tissue and orthopedic surgery, the percentage of clinic time spent on each service can be tailored to an individual's interest and desired career development. An opportunity for an endowed professorship in small animal surgery is available for a qualifying individual (e.g., Associate or Full Professor). The Small Animal Hospital at the LVMC is fully equipped with five state-of-the-art and spacious surgical suites complemented by top-of-the-line equipment to facilitate minimally invasive surgery (orthopedics and soft tissue) with near infrared technology, joint replacements, and interventional radiology procedures. With generous support from donors and the College administration, continued upgrades and addition of equipment is always available, including the recent purchase of a mobile radiology unit allowing for imaging in the operating suites to improve efficiency and further minimize surgical site contamination. The Department has also been proactive in encouraging and providing resources to support clinical research. A core laboratory has been established by the Department and is staffed by two staff researchers to aid clinical investigators with their projects. Internal funding is available to support clinical or preliminary research in preparation for outside grant application. Both primary investigator and collaborative research opportunities are available within the department and across the other College departments.

We look forward to the application from candidates dedicated to exceptional patient care and with a strong desire to share their knowledge and clinical expertise to educate students, house officers, and technicians. The Department has placed heavy emphasis and efforts in providing personalized mentorship to ensure faculty success in both clinical and tenure-track positions with the understanding of the different but equally important roles. For those looking for a strongly collaborative environment to work in where peers from different specialties work together to provide the best treatment and patient care, we are confident that you will find no position more welcoming and supported than this one at ISU.

• DVM or equivalent degree

• Successful completion of an American College of Veterinary Surgeons (ACVS), or European College of Veterinary Surgeons (ECVS) approved residency training program. Candidates in their third year of an approved surgical residency training program will also be considered an are encouraged to apply.

• State of Iowa Veterinary License on or before the first day of employment

• Board certification in the American or European College of Veterinary Surgeons

• Additional years of active experience in small animal surgery

• An advanced degree (MS, PhD or equivalent) or notable potential for scholarship through both manuscript publication, granting activity or national scholarly, clinical, or education presentations, commensurate with their stage of career

• Documented commitment to veterinary instruction and education of students and/or house officers

The LVMC is a state-of-the-art facility to designed to provide specialized care of comprehensive medical and surgical services for companion and large animals throughout Iowa and surrounding states. Our clinicians, residents, interns, technicians, staff, and senior veterinary students work collaboratively to provide 24-hour, high-quality care to animal patients. As the nation's first public veterinary school, Iowa State University's College of Veterinary Medicine takes pride in its heritage while shaping the future of veterinary professional practice, education, research and service.

Ames, Iowa is a progressive community of 60,000, located approximately 30 minutes north of Des Moines, and was recently voted as one of the best college towns in the nation.

https://vetmed.iastate.edu/vcs/

This position is open to some candidates eligible for employment-based immigration sponsorship. ISU is unable to provide H-1B immigration sponsorship for candidates who did not hold H-1B status as of September 20, 2025.

To apply for this position, please click on "Apply" and complete the Employment Application. Please be prepared to enter or attach the following:
1) Resume/Curriculum Vitae
2) Letter of Application/Cover Letter
3) Contact Information for Three (3) external to Iowa State references

For full consideration, please apply on or before September 24, 2026.

If you have questions regarding this application process, please email employment@iastate.edu or call 515-294-4800 or Toll Free: 1-877-477-7485.
Why Choose ISU?
Iowa State Faculty enjoy comprehensive health and work-life benefits, including medical and dental; as well as:
Retirement benefits, including defined benefit and defined contribution plans
Generous leave plans
Onsite childcare (Ames, Iowa)
Life insurance and long-term disability
Flexible Spending Accounts
Various voluntary benefits and discounts
Employee Assistance Program
Wellbeing program

Iowa State University does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, age, ethnicity, religion, national origin, pregnancy, sexual orientation, genetic information, sex, marital status, disability, or status as a U.S. Veteran. Inquiries regarding non-discrimination policies may be directed to Office of Equal Opportunity, 2680 Beardshear Hall, 515 Morrill Road, Ames, Iowa 50011, Tel. 515-294-7612, email eooffice@iastate.edu.

General ISU compensation information can be found on the University Human Resources website. Please note that this is only a list of ranges and individuals will be paid commensurate with qualifications.