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Associate Veterinarian Jobs in Decatur, TX (NOW HIRING)

Join us as an Associate Veterinarian at VCA Saginaw Animal Hospital. You'll quickly discover that you're well supported by world-class medicine, technology, facilities, and a talented team. You'll be ...

Join us as an Associate Veterinarian at VCA Bedford Meadows Animal Hospital. You'll quickly discover that you're well supported by world-class medicine, technology, facilities, and a talented team.

Description Associate Veterinarian Full Time Thrive Hurst, Texas Thrive Hurst is looking for an Associate Veterinarian to join our team in Hurst, TX. About Our Hospital Thrive Hurst is a small animal ...

Description Associate Veterinarian Full Time Thrive Hurst, Texas Thrive Hurst is looking for an Associate Veterinarian to join our team in Hurst, TX. About Our Hospital Thrive Hurst is a small animal ...

Description Associate Veterinarian Full Time Thrive Hurst, Texas Thrive Hurst is looking for an Associate Veterinarian to join our team in Hurst, TX. About Our Hospital Thrive Hurst is a small animal ...

With the launch of our new veterinary practices, we are looking for a full-time Associate Veterinarian to join our Healthcare Practice Team. As a clinical team member, you'll work in a practice ...

With the launch of our new veterinary practices, we are looking for a full-time Associate Veterinarian to join our Healthcare Practice Team. As a clinical team member, you'll work in a practice ...

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Showing results 1-20

Associate Veterinarian information

See Decatur, TX salary details

$23.7K

$116.4K

$175.7K

How much do associate veterinarian jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for associate veterinarian in Decatur, TX is $116,362.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $91,600.00 and $147,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as an Associate Veterinarian, you need a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) degree, state licensure, and a solid understanding of animal anatomy, diagnostics, and treatment protocols. Familiarity with veterinary practice management software, diagnostic imaging tools, and laboratory equipment is typically required. Strong communication, empathy, and problem-solving skills help veterinarians effectively interact with pet owners and work within a clinical team. These skills ensure high-quality patient care, accurate diagnostics, and positive client relationships essential in veterinary practice.

How much do associate veterinarians make in the US?

Associate veterinarians in the US typically earn an average annual salary of around $100,000 to $120,000, depending on experience, location, and practice size. Salaries can vary based on additional benefits, hours worked, and specialization, with some earning more through bonuses or profit sharing.

What is an associate veterinarian?

An associate veterinarian is a physician who provides medical care to animals. Unlike veterinarians who are practice owners, associate veterinarians typically work full-time or part-time as employees for other veterinary clinics, often enjoying more flexibility in their schedules. As an associate veterinarian, your responsibilities include performing veterinary medical, surgical, and dental procedures, along with maintaining patient medical records. You may also work closely with and supervise veterinary technicians as part of your duties. To become an associate veterinarian, you must earn a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) degree and become licensed in the state you wish to practice. Once you get job experience and refine your skills, you may also pursue certification in a specialty to gain a competitive edge in your career.

What are some common challenges faced by associate veterinarians in their daily practice?

Associate Veterinarians often encounter challenges such as balancing a high caseload with quality patient care, managing client expectations, and staying up-to-date with the latest medical advancements. Additionally, they may need to navigate emotional situations with pet owners and collaborate closely with veterinary technicians and support staff. Effective communication, time management, and teamwork are essential skills that help address these challenges and contribute to a positive work environment.

What does it mean to be an associate veterinarian?

An associate veterinarian is a licensed veterinary professional who works as a partner or employee in a veterinary practice, providing medical care, diagnosis, and treatment for animals. They typically work under the supervision of a senior veterinarian or practice owner and may perform surgeries, examinations, and client consultations as part of their duties.

What is the difference between Associate Veterinarian vs Veterinary Technician?

AspectAssociate VeterinarianVeterinary Technician
CredentialsDVM or VMD degree, state licensureCVT, RVT, or LVMT certification
Work EnvironmentPerform surgeries, diagnose, prescribe treatmentsAssist with exams, administer medications, lab work
Employer & Industry UsageVeterinary clinics, hospitals, animal sheltersVeterinary clinics, hospitals, research labs

Associate Veterinarians and Veterinary Technicians work closely in veterinary settings but have different roles. Vets diagnose and treat animals, requiring a DVM or VMD degree, while Vet Techs support these activities with technical skills. Both are essential for animal care but differ in education, responsibilities, and scope of practice.

What cities near Decatur, TX are hiring for Associate Veterinarian jobs? Cities near Decatur, TX with the most Associate Veterinarian job openings:
Infographic showing various Associate Veterinarian job openings in Decatur, TX as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 27% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $116,362 per year, or $55.9 per hour.

Associate Veterinarian

Purple Cow Recruiting

Fort Worth, TX โ€ข On-site

$130K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted yesterday

New


Job description

Description:

Associate Veterinarian | Fairfield, CT
Full-Time | On-Site | Small Animal Veterinary Medicine
Elizabeth Banzhaf, LPN
Co-Founder & COO | Heartline Staffing
Call or Text: 272-230-3157
LinkedIn: View Elizabeth's LinkedIn
Prefer a quick conversation? Call or text Elizabeth directly.
Heartline Staffing, in partnership with Purple Cow Recruiting, is seeking a compassionate and skilled Associate Veterinarian for a full-time opportunity in Fairfield, Connecticut. This position offers the opportunity to practice in a progressive, AAHA-accredited, state-of-the-art veterinary hospital while collaborating with an experienced and supportive clinical team.
POSITION OVERVIEW
The Associate Veterinarian will provide high-quality medical and surgical care to companion animals, primarily dogs and cats. Responsibilities include diagnosing and treating illnesses and injuries, performing surgical and dental procedures, administering preventive care and vaccinations, counseling pet owners, and coordinating care with referring veterinarians and hospital leadership.
The practice is open to both experienced veterinarians and new graduates. Candidates with two or more years of veterinary hospital experience are preferred, but recent graduates who demonstrate strong clinical potential, teamwork, and a commitment to continued learning will be considered.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
• Examine and diagnose diseases and injuries in companion animals
• Develop and manage appropriate medical treatment plans
• Perform surgical procedures as clinically appropriate
• Perform dental procedures
• Administer core vaccinations
• Provide preventive and wellness care
• Counsel pet owners regarding preventive care, treatment options, and ongoing medical needs
• Interpret diagnostic information and manage patient outcomes
• Collaborate with veterinary technicians, support staff, and other veterinarians
• Communicate and coordinate with referring veterinarians
• Work with hospital and regional leadership to maintain high standards of patient care
• Participate in continuing education, seminars, and professional training
• Manage clinical time and prioritize cases effectively
• Work efficiently in a busy, fast-paced veterinary hospital environment
• Contribute to a positive and collaborative workplace for staff, clients, and patients
CLINICAL ENVIRONMENT
The successful veterinarian will practice within a collaborative hospital environment equipped to provide high-quality companion-animal care. Relevant clinical responsibilities may include:
• Physical Examinations
• Medical Diagnosis and Treatment
• Preventive Medicine
• Vaccinations
• Soft-Tissue Surgery
• Dentistry
• Dental Extractions
• Anesthesia / Analgesia Management
• Diagnostic Interpretation
• Case Management
• Client Education
• Referral Coordination
NEW GRADUATES
New veterinary graduates are encouraged to be considered for this opportunity. Internship training is preferred but not required. Candidates should be prepared to discuss clinical rotations, internships, externships, mentorship experience, surgical exposure, dentistry, and other hands-on small-animal experience.
COMPENSATION & INCENTIVES
The position offers a competitive compensation structure that may include:
• Base Salary Starting at $130,000
• Production-Based Compensation Opportunities
• Additional Financial Incentives
• Sign-On Bonus of Up to $100,000
• Relocation Bonus When Applicable
BENEFITS
• Medical Insurance
• Dental Insurance
• Vision Insurance
• 401(k) with Company Match of Up to 4% After 6 Months
• Generous Paid Time Off
• Company-Paid or Applicable State Bonding Leave
• Employer-Assisted Student Loan Repayment
• Mental Health Resources
• Veterinary Service and Product Discounts
• Reference Laboratory Testing Discounts
• Pet Food Discounts
• Pet Insurance Discounts

Requirements:

• Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) Degree or Equivalent Qualification from an Accredited Institution REQUIRED
• Eligibility to Obtain a Connecticut State Veterinary License REQUIRED
• Hands-On Small Animal Clinical Experience REQUIRED
• Ability to Examine, Diagnose, and Medically Treat Companion Animals REQUIRED
• Ability to Perform Appropriate Surgical Procedures REQUIRED
• Dental Procedure Experience / Clinical Training REQUIRED
• Preventive Care and Vaccination Knowledge REQUIRED
• Strong Client Communication and Education Skills REQUIRED
• Ability to Collaborate with Veterinary Teams and Referring Veterinarians REQUIRED
• Strong Time Management and Prioritization Skills REQUIRED
• Ability to Thrive in a Fast-Paced Veterinary Hospital Environment REQUIRED
• Ability to Work On-Site in Fairfield, CT REQUIRED
• 2+ Years of Veterinary Hospital Practice Experience Preferred
• Veterinary Internship Training Preferred
• AAHA-Accredited or High-Volume Veterinary Hospital Experience Preferred
EXPERIENCE NOTE: Two or more years of veterinary hospital experience is preferred; however, new graduates will be considered. Do not reject an otherwise qualified recent graduate solely for not having two years of post-graduate practice experience.
LICENSE NOTE: Candidates do not need to already hold a Connecticut veterinary license at the time of initial screening, but they must be eligible to obtain one. Candidates currently licensed in another state should be screened for Connecticut licensure eligibility and anticipated timeline.
CLINICAL SKILLS: Strong candidates should demonstrate competence or appropriate training in companion-animal physical exams, diagnosis and treatment, preventive medicine, vaccinations, surgery, dentistry, anesthesia/analgesia, diagnostic interpretation, and client communication.
Not ready to apply? If you are a veterinarian interested in a collaborative small-animal practice and would prefer to discuss the opportunity first, call or text Elizabeth directly at 272-230-3157.