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Veterinary Pathologist Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Amgen

Pathology Sr. Director

Washington, DC · On-site

The ideal pathologist candidate will have experience managing and interpreting pathology datasets ... DVM, Board Certification in Veterinary Anatomic Pathology (DACVP or comparable credentialing body ...

Umd

Post Doctoral Associate

College Park, MD

$55K - $67K/yr

The Department of Veterinary Medicine at UMD is home to numerous excellent scientists in the field ... Hands-on experience with animal models to study pathogenesis and host immune responses.

Umd

Post Doctoral Associate

College Park, MD

$55K - $67K/yr

The Department of Veterinary Medicine at UMD is home to numerous excellent scientists in the field ... Hands-on experience with animal models to study pathogenesis and host immune responses.

Umd

Post Doctoral Associate

College Park, MD

$55K - $67K/yr

The Department of Veterinary Medicine at UMD is home to numerous excellent scientists in the field ... Hands-on experience with animal models to study pathogenesis and host immune responses.

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All JobsVeterinary Pathologist JobsVeterinary Pathologist Jobs in Washington

Veterinary Pathologist information

See Washington salary details

$51.5K

$282K

$438.3K

How much do veterinary pathologist jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for veterinary pathologist in Washington is $282,018.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $230,500.00 and $340,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Veterinary Pathologist vs Veterinary Laboratory Technician?

AspectVeterinary PathologistVeterinary Laboratory Technician
Required CredentialsDoctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) or equivalent, specialized training in pathologyAssociate's or Bachelor's degree in veterinary technology or related field
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, diagnostic laboratories, universities, or veterinary hospitalsVeterinary clinics, diagnostic labs, research facilities
Industry UsageFocuses on diagnosing diseases through tissue analysis and researchPerforms laboratory tests, prepares samples, and assists in diagnostics

While both roles work within veterinary diagnostics, Veterinary Pathologists specialize in disease diagnosis through tissue examination and research, requiring advanced degrees. Veterinary Laboratory Technicians support diagnostic processes by performing tests and preparing samples, often with less formal education. Understanding these differences helps clarify career paths and job expectations in veterinary diagnostics.

What Does a Veterinary Pathologist Do?

As a veterinary pathologist, your duties are slightly different depending on whether you work in small or large animal veterinary medicine and whether you run a practice that deals mainly with pets or a business that involves consulting and research services for a rancher or other livestock operation. As a small animal or family practice pathologist, your responsibilities are to diagnose diseases in animals. You study tissue samples from organs and body fluid to reach a diagnosis. In livestock veterinary pathology, a veterinary pathologist studies herds for communicable diseases that may affect production. Some veterinary pathologists work for the FDA or other federal programs to investigate outbreaks.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Veterinary Pathologist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Veterinary Pathologist, you need a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) degree, board certification (such as from the ACVP), and expertise in animal disease diagnosis. Familiarity with laboratory diagnostic tools, histopathology techniques, and digital pathology systems is typically required. Strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and effective communication are vital for collaborating with veterinarians and researchers. These skills and qualifications are essential for ensuring accurate disease identification, advancing animal health research, and supporting effective treatment decisions.

What is a veterinary pathologist?

A veterinary pathologist is a specialized veterinarian who studies diseases in animals by examining tissues, organs, bodily fluids, and laboratory test results. They play a crucial role in diagnosing illnesses, understanding disease processes, and supporting animal health by working in laboratories, research institutions, universities, or diagnostic centers. Veterinary pathologists use their expertise to assist in disease surveillance, support public health, and contribute to advancements in both animal and human medicine. Their work can involve both clinical pathology (analyzing blood and other bodily fluids) and anatomical pathology (examining tissues and organs).

What are some common challenges faced by veterinary pathologists in their daily work?

Veterinary pathologists often encounter the challenge of diagnosing complex cases where clinical signs and laboratory findings may be ambiguous or overlap between different diseases. Additionally, they must stay current with rapidly advancing diagnostic techniques and emerging animal diseases. Balancing casework, research, and collaboration with clinicians or other scientists can also be demanding. Effective communication is essential, as pathologists frequently explain findings and recommendations to veterinarians, researchers, and sometimes animal owners.
More about Veterinary Pathologist jobs
What are popular job titles related to Veterinary Pathologist jobs in Washington? For Veterinary Pathologist jobs in Washington, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Veterinary Pathologist jobs in Washington look for? The top searched job categories for Veterinary Pathologist jobs in Washington are:
What cities in Washington are hiring for Veterinary Pathologist jobs? Cities in Washington with the most Veterinary Pathologist job openings:
Veterinary Pathologist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Veterinary Pathologist job openings in Washington as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 4% As Needed, 65% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 16% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $282,018 per year, or $135.6 per hour.
Veterinary Dermatologist - Veterinary Referral Associates

Veterinary Dermatologist - Veterinary Referral Associates

Veterinary Referral Associates

Gaithersburg, MD • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 18 days ago

Job description

At PetVet Care Centers, our mission is to improve the lives of animals and people - providing exceptional and compassionate care at every stage - for all the moments that matter.
Because life is better with pets.
We deliver the Ultimate Care Experience - every pet, every client, every time. That starts with a Culture of Care that supports our team members as much as the pets and clients we serve.
With more than 420 locally led hospitals and over 11,000 team members nationwide, we offer:
  • Local autonomy with national support
  • Career mobility and development opportunities
  • A collaborative, inclusive environment where your wellbeing comes first

You care for pets. We care for you.
Position Overview
We are seeking a compassionate and skilled Board Certified or Residency Trained Veterinary Dermatologist to join our team at Veterinary Referral Associates. 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.
Veterinary Referral Associates (VRA) in Gaithersburg, Maryland is a well-established, high-volume multi-specialty referral and emergency hospital. Our hospital has advanced in-house diagnostic capabilities thanks to a fully equipped in-house laboratory, advanced imaging options (radiographs, ultrasound, CT, and MRI), on-site pathology and cytology support, comprehensive anesthesia and critical care services, and a dedicated emergency and ICU team providing 24/7 support.
Why Join Us:
  • VRA is recognized for delivering exceptional specialty care through advanced medicine, collaboration, and a patient-centered philosophy.
  • Our dermatology service is supported by extensive in-house diagnostics and a large, diverse team of specialty veterinarians, allowing for seamless case collaboration and comprehensive patient care.

Located just outside Washington, DC, Gaithersburg offers a vibrant mix of suburban comfort, cultural opportunities, and outdoor recreation-making it an ideal location for both career advancement and work-life balance.
Ready to take the next step? Apply today! For questions or to connect directly, please email your resume to Julia Stephens at jstephens@petvetcarecenters.com
What We Offer
We care deeply about supporting our team members - professionally and personally. Benefits include:
  • Signing, retention and relocation packages up to $75,000
  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance
  • Paid Parental Leave (birth, adoption, foster)
  • 401(k) with discretionary contribution
  • Team Member Pet Discounts
  • Emotional wellbeing support - including Calm app access and 24/7 EAP
  • CE stipends and career development resources
  • Grant Circle - a relief fund for team members facing personal hardship
  • Local hospital culture backed by national resources

Key Responsibilities
  • Comprehensive patient exams and medical work-ups
  • Client communication and education
  • Maintaining accurate medical records
  • Pharmacy duties such as prescribing medications to patients and following controlled substance protocols
  • Promote teamwork and staff efficiency
  • Work with the Hospital Manager on weekly priorities and expectations
  • Evaluate and monitor protocols for the daily running of the hospital from intake to discharge
  • Monitor cases in the hospital and attend daily rounds when possible to be sure the highest standards are being upheld
  • Participate in practice management updates and training at all levels
  • Performs other duties as assigned by Management.

Qualifications (Required)
  • Veterinarian degree (DVM or VMD) from an accredited college or university
  • 1-year rotational internship in small animal medicine, surgery, ER (university or large referral practice).
  • Completed a 3-year, AVMA approved residency program
  • Current State Veterinary License
  • DEA registration must be obtained and maintained
  • Strong diagnostic and clinical skills.
  • Ability to work well in a team-oriented environment.
  • Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills.
  • Commitment to providing compassionate and high-quality veterinary care.
  • Excellent Communication Skills and the ability to communicate effectively, efficiently, and in a timely manner with all members of the Medical and Hospital staff.
  • Client communication skills, must be able to elicit information, establish rapport, offer explanations with pet owners.
  • Display confidence and reassurance when dealing with pets experiencing severe stress, illness, or pain.
  • May include some climbing, balancing, stooping, kneeling, crouching, or crawling.
  • Some tasks involve the periodic performance of moderately physically demanding work.
  • Position does require the ability to lift up to 50 pounds.

Preferred Skills (Nice to Have)
  • Board Certification
  • 2-5 years of experience post-residency
  • Clinical Knowledge and Skills: Demonstrate clinical knowledge and skill in examining and assessing animals. Perform cardiovascular, respiratory, orthopedic, neurological and other necessary examinations. Diagnosis and prescribe appropriate treatment.
  • Problem-Solving: Ability to develop solutions to challenges relating to the management of a high-quality veterinary hospital.
  • Communication Skills: Demonstrate effective communication of diagnostic and therapeutic options to clients. Display effective communication with internal medical and hospital staff.
  • Professionalism: Work as part of a high-quality, professional veterinary team with the ability to provide and receive appropriate constructive criticism, suggestions, and feedback.
  • Business Acumen: Ability to understand the management and finances of the veterinary hospital practice.
  • Ethics: Knowledge and understanding of ethical principles that guide decisions affecting patients.
  • Commitment to Continuing Education: Commitment to utilize available resources of continuing education and to facilitate learning of others.

Pay Range
$220,000-$280,000 USD
At PetVet Care Centers, we're committed to a Culture of Care - for pets, for the people who love them, and for the team members who make it all possible. With more than 420 hospitals across the U.S. and a team of over 11,000 dedicated professionals, including 1700+ veterinarians, we offer a unique blend of local leadership and national support that helps our hospitals thrive.
Our model is built on partnership, collaboration, and local medical autonomy, empowering each hospital to deliver high-quality care while benefiting from shared resources and a strong professional community. Whether you're providing care in a hospital or supporting operations behind the scenes, PetVet is a place where you can grow your career, stay connected to your purpose, and make a meaningful impact.
You care for pets. We care for you.
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
PetVet respects your privacy and is committed to protecting your personal information. Please see our privacy notice for additional information about our data practices.

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