Lab Manager Jobs in Merced, CA (NOW HIRING)

At PetVet Care Centers, our mission is to improve the lives of animals and people — providing exceptional and compassionate care at every stage.

Position Overview

We are seeking a compassionate and skilled Medical Director to join our team at Taylor Veterinary Emergency Hospital in Turlock, California. The ideal candidate will be passionate about providing high‑quality veterinary care and possess excellent communication skills to build lasting relationships with our clients. You will work alongside a team of experienced veterinarians, technicians, and support staff and will work closely with the Hospital Manager and Regional Director.

Taylor Veterinary Emergency Hospital is located in Turlock, California and operates a 24‑hour support staff in an 8,500 sq. ft. facility equipped with state‑of‑the‑art equipment, including a Snyder O2 unit, digital & portable x‑ray, rigid/endoscope, 2 fully equipped ORs, 5 exam rooms, skills lab & training classroom, ultrasounds, and a fully remodeled Idexx lab.

Why Join Us

• Daily rounding and consultations with experienced veterinarians provide a team approach to challenging cases and a professionally rewarding experience.
• Located in the heart of the Central Valley with easy access to California attractions.

Key Responsibilities

• Maintain a high quality of progressive veterinary care:
  • Oversee and give directives regarding medical standards and quality of care.
  • Set policies pertaining to medical practice.
  • Facilitate team collaboration across services.
  • Recommend updates to hospital inventory and budget new equipment.
  • Provide clinical patient care.
  • Ensure clear communication with clients and staff.
  • Review patient records for completeness and accuracy.
  • Manage controlled drugs and approve alternative requests.
  • Conduct regular doctor meetings.
  • Perform other duties as assigned by Manager.
• Handle patient care problems, client complaints, and referral partner issues.
• Manage complaints from veterinary staff, clients, and board and recommend resolutions.
• Develop and enforce medical policies.
• Ensure compliance with State Veterinary Medical Practice Act, OSHA, and AAHA standards.
• Monitor DVM performance and provide coaching.
• Mentor and serve as a role model for all staff veterinarians.
• Lead candidate interviews for potential DVMs.
• Identify new service opportunities and maintain hospital revenue and success through KPI monitoring.
• Plan for operational challenges and potential locum solutions.

Qualifications (Required)

• Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM or VMD) from an accredited institution.
• Current State Veterinary License.
• DEA registration maintained.
• 3‑5+ years of experience in a veterinary practice.
• Strong diagnostic and clinical skills.
• Excellent surgical and dental skills.
• Team‑oriented work capability.
• Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills.
• Commitment to compassionate, high‑quality care.
• Client communication proficiency, including rapport building with pet owners.
• Ability to handle pets in severe stress, illness, or pain with confidence and reassurance.
• Physical ability to lift up to 50 pounds and perform moderate physical tasks.

Preferred Skills (Nice to Have)

• Exceptional written and verbal communication.
• Excellent time‑management and delegation.
• Sound judgment and decision‑making.
• Professionalism and courtesy.
• Well‑developed interpersonal skills.

Pay Range

$250,000 — $275,000 USD

What We Offer

• Signing, retention, and relocation packages up to $100,000.
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• Competitive salary and production bonus (no negative accrual option).
• Paid parental leave (birth, adoption, foster).
• 401(k) with discretionary contribution.
• Team member pet discounts.
• Emotional wellbeing support (Calm app access and 24/7 EAP).
• CE stipends and career development resources.
• Grant Circle relief fund for personal hardship.
• Local hospital culture backed by national resources.

PetVet is an equal opportunity employer. All employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, age, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, marital status, pregnancy, religion, citizenship, national origin/ancestry, physical/mental disabilities, military status or any other basis prohibited by law. EOE, M/F/D/V

Why Consider Our Turlock Hospital?

Our team members share a passion for keeping animals healthy. The hospital supports career growth and values contributions from every individual.