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Animal Surgeon Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Tuskegee University

The Small Animal Surgeon must have a commitment to the University's tri-partite mission of teaching, research, and service; and participate in classroom, clinical and laboratory instruction of ...

AnimERge

Small Animal Surgeon - AnimERge

Raritan, NJ · On-site

Position Overview We are seeking a dedicated Board-Certified or Residency Trained Small Animal Veterinary Surgeon to join our team. The ideal candidate will be passionate about providing high-quality ...

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Animal Surgeon information

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$155K

$368.9K

$400K

How much do animal surgeon jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for animal surgeon in the United States is $368,879.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $350,000.00 and $400,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How do you become an animal surgeon?

To become an animal surgeon, you must first earn a bachelor's degree, then complete a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) degree from an accredited veterinary college. Afterward, you typically complete a surgical internship and residency to gain specialized training in veterinary surgery, and obtain licensure to practice veterinary medicine. Strong skills in anatomy, surgery, and animal care are essential, along with certification from relevant veterinary boards for specialization.

What is the difference between Animal Surgeon vs Veterinarian?

AspectAnimal SurgeonVeterinarian
Required CredentialsDoctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM), specialized surgical trainingDoctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM)
Work EnvironmentOperating rooms, clinics, hospitals, surgical centersGeneral clinics, hospitals, outpatient care, surgeries
Employer & IndustryVeterinary hospitals, specialty surgical clinicsAnimal clinics, hospitals, research facilities
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for surgical expertise and specializationBroader role including diagnosis, treatment, and prevention

Animal Surgeons are specialized veterinarians focusing on surgical procedures, requiring advanced surgical training. Veterinarians have a broader scope, including diagnosis and general care. While all Animal Surgeons are Veterinarians, not all Veterinarians are Animal Surgeons. The key difference lies in specialization and surgical focus.

What are some common challenges Animal Surgeons face during complex surgical procedures, and how can they be managed?

Animal Surgeons often encounter challenges such as unpredictable complications during surgery, variations in animal anatomy, and managing post-operative pain or infection. To address these issues, surgeons rely on thorough preoperative assessments, clear communication with veterinary technicians, and adherence to strict aseptic techniques. Continuous learning and collaboration with veterinary specialists also help in effectively managing unexpected situations, ensuring the best outcomes for their animal patients.

What is the highest paid animal job?

The highest paid animal job is typically that of a specialized veterinary surgeon, such as a zoo or exotic animal veterinarian, with salaries often exceeding $150,000 annually. These roles require advanced training, certifications, and experience working with diverse species in specialized environments.

Can vets work while pregnant?

Veterinarians, including animal surgeons, can work while pregnant, but they may need to adjust their schedule or workload to accommodate health and safety considerations. It is important to follow medical advice and workplace policies regarding pregnancy and physical demands, such as handling animals and performing surgeries. Many clinics and hospitals support pregnant staff with accommodations to ensure safety for both the employee and the animals.

Can surgeons work on animals?

Animal surgeons, such as veterinary surgeons, perform surgical procedures on animals to treat injuries, diseases, or deformities. They require specialized training in veterinary medicine and surgical techniques, often working in clinics, hospitals, or research settings. Certification and licensing are typically required to practice legally and safely on animals.

What are animal surgeons?

Animal surgeons, also known as veterinary surgeons, are veterinarians who specialize in performing surgical procedures on animals. They diagnose injuries and diseases, recommend surgical options, and perform operations ranging from routine spaying and neutering to complex orthopedic or soft tissue surgeries. Animal surgeons work with a variety of animals, including pets, livestock, and sometimes exotic species. They also provide post-operative care and collaborate with pet owners to ensure the best recovery outcomes. Their expertise is crucial for treating conditions that cannot be managed with medication alone.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Animal Surgeon, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Animal Surgeon, you need a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) degree, board certification in veterinary surgery, and extensive knowledge of animal anatomy and surgical procedures. Proficiency with surgical instruments, anesthesia machines, and diagnostic imaging systems is essential. Strong attention to detail, problem-solving ability, and communication skills with both clients and veterinary teams set candidates apart. These skills ensure successful surgical outcomes, patient safety, and effective collaboration in veterinary practice.
More about Animal Surgeon jobs
What cities are hiring for Animal Surgeon jobs? Cities with the most Animal Surgeon job openings:
What states have the most Animal Surgeon jobs? States with the most job openings for Animal Surgeon jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Animal Surgeon jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Animal Surgeon jobs are:
Animal Surgeon jobs near you
Infographic showing various Animal Surgeon job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 76% Full Time, 22% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $368,879 per year, or $177.3 per hour.

Small Animal Surgeon

Midwest Veterinary Specialists

Greenfield, WI

$246K - $295K/yr

Full-time, Part-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 18 days ago

Job description

Build Something Exceptional With Us
Third Small Animal Surgeon
Midwest Veterinary Specialists | Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Midwest Veterinary Specialists is growing, and we are seeking a third small animal surgeon to join our thriving surgical team in southeast Wisconsin. Competitive compensation, no negative accrual, flexible scheduling, and partnership opportunities available.
This is an opportunity to become part of something special: a rapidly growing, surgeon-led practice that combines clinical excellence, cutting-edge facilities, genuine work-life balance, and the freedom of private ownership. As we continue to grow, we are intentionally building a collaborative three-surgeon team that allows each surgeon to practice outstanding medicine while enjoying the support, flexibility, and camaraderie that can be difficult to find elsewhere.
Midwest Veterinary Specialists is a 100% privately owned specialty hospital focused on orthopedic surgery, soft tissue surgery, sports medicine, rehabilitation, and comprehensive patient care. Since opening our state-of-the-art facility, demand for our services has grown dramatically, creating an exceptional opportunity for another full- or part-time surgeon to join our team and help shape the future of our practice.
This Opportunity Is Different
Join a True Three-Surgeon Team
Rather than practicing in isolation, you'll work alongside experienced surgeons who enjoy collaboration, consultation, and sharing ideas. A three-surgeon model provides greater flexibility for scheduling, vacation coverage, mentorship, case discussion, and long-term sustainability while maintaining clinical autonomy.
Private Practice Freedom
We are independently owned and surgeon-led. Decisions are made by people who understand surgery, patient care, staff wellbeing, and the realities of specialty practice—not by corporate executives or distant management groups.
We measure success by patient outcomes, client experience, team wellbeing, and sustainable growth. We invest heavily in our people, encourage innovation, and empower our doctors to help shape the future direction of the practice.
Build Your Career Your Way
We are looking for a surgeon who wants more than simply filling a schedule. Whether your interests include advanced orthopedics, minimally invasive surgery, neurosurgery, sports medicine, arthroscopy, regenerative medicine, clinical research, resident training, or another area of expertise, we encourage you to develop and grow your niche within our practice.
Work-Life Balance That Actually Exists
Our appointment-based model allows us to provide exceptional specialty care without requiring routine weekend or holiday emergency surgery responsibilities. Client-facing hours are Monday through Friday, creating a schedule that supports both professional fulfillment and personal well-being.
A Hospital Designed by Surgeons, for Surgeons
Our award-winning 9,000-square-foot specialty hospital was purpose-built to maximize efficiency, workflow, collaboration, and surgeon satisfaction.
Highlights include:
• Two expansive orthopedic operating suites
• Dedicated large soft tissue operating room
• Surgical booms and advanced LED lighting systems
• Heated electric surgery tables
• 64-slice GE CT scanner
• High-definition digital radiography
• GE ultrasound system
• Comprehensive implant and instrumentation inventory, including Synthes, Storz, Arthrex, Biomedtrix, IMEX, and more
• Cloud-based medical records and advanced workflow systems
• Spacious treatment, hospitalization, and doctor work areas
Every aspect of the hospital was intentionally designed to help surgeons work efficiently, practice exceptional medicine, and genuinely enjoy coming to work each day.
Integrated Rehabilitation amp; Sports Medicine
One of our greatest strengths is the close integration between surgery, sports medicine, and rehabilitation. Our surgeons work directly alongside our rehabilitation team to optimize patient outcomes from diagnosis through recovery and return to function. This collaborative approach allows us to provide truly comprehensive care while offering surgeons the satisfaction of following patients throughout their entire recovery journey.
Our robust rehabilitation service features:
  • Underwater treadmill therapy
  • SwimEx therapy pool
  • Land treadmill system
  • Shockwave therapy
  • Therapeutic laser
  • Acupuncture
  • Comprehensive rehabilitation gym
A Team Worth Joining
We believe great medicine happens when talented people genuinely enjoy working together. Our culture emphasizes mentorship, collaboration, accountability, innovation, and respect. We invest heavily in our people and are committed to helping each team member grow professionally and personally. We work hard, support one another, celebrate successes, and genuinely enjoy being part of the same team.
Professional Growth Opportunities
We welcome surgeons who are passionate about developing new services, pursuing clinical research, mentoring others, and helping advance the profession. For candidates interested in leadership and long-term involvement in practice growth, meaningful leadership responsibilities and future partnership opportunities are available.
Compensation amp; Benefits
We offer a highly competitive package including:
  • Competitive base salary plus production
  • No negative accrual
  • Relocation assistance
  • Health, dental, life, and disability insurance
  • 401(k) with 4% employer match
  • Generous CE allowance
  • Paid vacation and CE time
  • Professional dues and licensing fees
  • Scrub allowance and pet discount benefits
Why Milwaukee?
Southeast Wisconsin offers an outstanding quality of life with excellent schools, vibrant communities, Lake Michigan living, outdoor recreation, professional sports, exceptional dining, and easy access to Chicago, Madison, and Green Bay. Whether you prefer an urban lifestyle, suburban neighborhood, or rural property, you'll find it here.
Let's Build the Future Together
If you're looking for a place where you can practice exceptional surgery, collaborate with talented colleagues, maintain a fulfilling life outside of work, and help build one of the Midwest's premier specialty hospitals, we'd love to start a conversation.
Learn more about us at: www.midwestveterinaryspecialiss.com
Confidential inquiries welcome.
careers@MidwestVeterinarySpecialists.com

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