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Veterinary Internist Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Veterinary Internist information

See Iowa salary details

$132K

$199.1K

$222.6K

How much do veterinary internist jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for veterinary internist in Iowa is $199,063.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $192,500.00 and $206,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a veterinary internist?

A Veterinary Internist is a specialized veterinarian who diagnoses and treats complex internal medical conditions in animals. They focus on diseases affecting organs such as the liver, kidneys, gastrointestinal system, and endocrine system. Using advanced diagnostic tools like ultrasound, endoscopy, and lab tests, they develop treatment plans for chronic and severe illnesses. Veterinary internists often collaborate with other specialists and primary care veterinarians to provide comprehensive care for animals.

What does a veterinary internist do?

A typical workday for a Veterinary Internist involves reviewing patient histories, conducting detailed diagnostic evaluations, performing or interpreting advanced imaging or lab tests, and developing tailored treatment plans for complex internal medicine cases. Veterinary Internists frequently consult with referring general practitioners, collaborate with other veterinary specialists, and counsel pet owners about diagnoses and care options. Most days involve a mix of direct patient care, diagnostic procedures, and multidisciplinary team meetings. This collaborative and varied environment enables internists to address a wide range of challenging health conditions and contribute to the advancement of veterinary medicine.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a veterinary internist?

To thrive as a Veterinary Internist, you need in-depth knowledge of veterinary internal medicine, strong diagnostic abilities, and a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) degree along with board certification from the American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine (ACVIM). Expertise with advanced diagnostic tools, laboratory equipment, and medical record software is typically required. Outstanding problem-solving abilities, compassion, and effective communication are vital soft skills for supporting patients and collaborating with pet owners and veterinary teams. These competencies help ensure accurate diagnoses, successful treatment plans, and high-quality care for complex animal health cases.

Infographic showing various Veterinary Internist job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Locum Tenens, 2% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 19% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $199,063 per year, or $95.7 per hour.

Veterinary Specialist Internal Medicine

BluePearl Pet Hospitals

Des Moines, IA • On-site

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 18 days ago


Job description

Veterinary Internist (Board-Certified or Board-Eligible)

Des Moines, IA

BluePearl Pet Hospital in Des Moines, Iowa is seeking a Veterinary Internal Medicine Specialist to join the largest 24-hour emergency and referral center in the greater Des Moines area. This is an opportunity to practice advanced Internal Medicine within a well-established, high-volume hospital supported by a collaborative team of specialists and emergency clinicians.

Why This Role Stands Out
  • Established referral center with a strong and consistent caseload
  • Collaborative, multi-specialty environment
  • Advanced diagnostic tools and treatment capabilities
  • Central location with easy access across the metro area
  • Opportunity to contribute to and grow within a respected hospital
About the Hospital

Our 13,000-square-foot, state-of-the-art facility is designed to support high-level specialty and emergency care:

  • 24/7 emergency and critical care services
  • Board-certified and residency-trained specialists in:
    • Neurology
    • Internal Medicine
    • Oncology
    • Surgery

Advanced on-site diagnostics include:

  • CT scanner
  • Endoscopy
  • Ultrasound
  • Digital radiography
  • Chemotherapy capabilities

This robust infrastructure allows you to deliver comprehensive, efficient, and high-quality patient care.

Life in Des Moines
  • Des Moines offers a balance of affordability, opportunity, and quality of life.
  • Growing metro with a strong sense of community
  • Low cost of living compared to many major cities
  • Expanding food, arts, and cultural scene
  • Outdoor recreation including biking trails, parks, and waterfront areas
  • Family-friendly environment with excellent schools and amenities
Compensation & Benefits
  • Competitive compensation + production bonus
  • Relocation assistance
  • Comprehensive health, dental, vision, and life insurance
  • 401(k) with employer match
  • Parental leave + fertility support
Professional Growth
  • CE stipend + premium learning resources (VetGirl, VetFolio, etc.)
  • BluePearl Science (clinical research opportunities)
  • Leadership and mentorship pathways
Wellbeing Support
  • Mental health resources (LYRA + EAP)
  • A culture that prioritizes sustainability—not burnout
Make an Impact in a Growing Market

If you are looking to practice high-level Internal Medicine in a collaborative and well-supported environment, we encourage you to connect with us!

BluePearl is committed to a diverse work environment in which all individuals are treated with respect and dignity. We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, national origin, religion, creed, sex, age, disability, genetic information, marital status, citizenship status, sexual orientation or affectional preference, or gender identity or expression, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. If you need assistance or an accommodation during the application process because of a disability, it is available upon request. The company is pleased to provide such assistance, and no applicant will be penalized as a result of such a request. We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and a Drug Free Workplace.