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Veterinary Referral Associates Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Veterinary Referral Associates information

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$26.5K

$130.2K

$196.5K

How much do veterinary referral associates jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for veterinary referral associates in the United States is $130,170.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $102,500.00 and $165,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Veterinary Referral Associates?

Veterinary Referral Associates are specialized veterinary clinics or hospitals that provide advanced medical care for animals, typically by referral from a primary care veterinarian. These facilities have board-certified specialists in areas such as surgery, internal medicine, oncology, cardiology, and more. They use advanced diagnostic tools and treatments, offering expertise beyond what general practice veterinarians provide. Pet owners are usually referred to Veterinary Referral Associates for complex or severe conditions that require specialized attention. This collaborative approach ensures pets receive the best possible care tailored to their specific medical needs.

What does collaboration look like between veterinarians and veterinary specialists at Veterinary Referral Associates?

At Veterinary Referral Associates, collaboration between general veterinarians and specialists is a key part of delivering comprehensive patient care. Team members regularly consult with one another to discuss complex cases, share diagnostic insights, and develop integrated treatment plans for animals. This multidisciplinary approach not only enhances patient outcomes but also provides an excellent learning environment for staff, allowing them to expand their knowledge and advance their careers through exposure to a variety of specialties.

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

To thrive as a Veterinary Referral Associate, you generally need a background in veterinary medicine or animal science, strong organizational skills, and experience in a clinical or referral setting. Familiarity with veterinary practice management software, medical records systems, and relevant certifications such as Veterinary Technician licensure are often required. Exceptional communication, empathy, and problem-solving abilities help you coordinate care between primary veterinarians, specialists, and pet owners. These skills ensure effective patient management, smooth referral processes, and high-quality client service in a specialized veterinary environment.
More about Veterinary Referral Associates jobs
What cities are hiring for Veterinary Referral Associates jobs? Cities with the most Veterinary Referral Associates job openings:
What states have the most Veterinary Referral Associates jobs? States with the most job openings for Veterinary Referral Associates jobs include:
Infographic showing various Veterinary Referral Associates job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 26% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $130,170 per year, or $62.6 per hour.
Veterinary Dermatologist - Veterinary Referral Associates

Veterinary Dermatologist - Veterinary Referral Associates

Veterinary Referral Associates

Gaithersburg, MD โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 16 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
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