Veterinarian - Community Medicine
Humane Society for Southwest Washington·Vancouver, Washington
Humane Society for Southwest Washington·Vancouver, Washington
Provide high-quality general practice veterinary care focusing on wellness, preventative medicine, and treatment of common illnesses for a diverse community of patients. Lead medical care during clinic days and support access to care for income-qualified families to keep pets with their owners.
Description The Humane Society for Southwest Washington is currently seeking a Veterinarian - Community Medicine to join our team. This is a full-time, FLSA exempt opportunity.
Since 1897, HSSW has been the leader in animal welfare across Southwest Washington. With an annual operating budget of $15 million, we are the largest and most innovative animal welfare organization in the region. Our shelter campuses in Vancouver and Longview, WA serve more than 10,000 animals each year, providing high-quality care, medical services, and the compassion they deserve.
Our community-based approach helps keep pets and people together. Through the Nierenberg Community Veterinary Clinic, the Sandra Richardson Miller Mobile Veterinary Clinic, the Swigert Family Behavior & Training Center, and programs like free pet food and other essential resources, we serve more than 18,000 owned animals annually expanding access to affordable veterinary care, spay/neuter, training, and support. We also own and operate ReTails Thrift Store, a top shopping destination named Best Thrift Store in Clark County for eight consecutive years, providing vital funding for our mission.
At HSSW, you’ll find an innovative, high-energy culture where your passion for animals and people can make a real difference. We’re looking for team members who want to be part of something bigger: supporting pets, strengthening families, and shaping the future of animal welfare in Southwest Washington. HSSW has been honored as Best Non-Profit for two years running—a recognition of our impact and leadership in the community.
Veterinarian – Community Medicine (General Practice Focus)
Provide compassionate, high-quality general practice veterinary care to a diverse community of patients, with a focus on wellness, preventative medicine, and the diagnosis and treatment of common illnesses and injuries. This role is responsible for leading the medical care delivered during clinic days, supporting access to care for income-qualified families, and helping keep pets with the people who love them.
This position is ideal for an experienced GP veterinarian who enjoys client communication, outpatient medicine, and building relationships, while practicing in a mission-driven, high-impact environment.
Medical Care Perform comprehensive physical examinations for canine and feline patients Diagnose and treat common medical conditions, including sick and injured animals within scope of care Develop and implement treatment plans, including diagnostics, medications, and follow-up care Provide preventative care services including vaccines, parasite control, and client education Perform and oversee minor outpatient procedures as appropriate Participate in spay/neuter and surgical services as needed, based on clinic needs and individual skillset Triage and refer cases outside scope of care to appropriate specialty or emergency providers Perform humane euthanasia in accordance with HSSW protocols Maintain a safe and low-stress environment for patients, clients, and staff Client Service Communicate clearly and compassionately with clients in a non-judgmental manner Educate pet owners on preventative care, treatment options, and long-term health planning Support clients in making informed, realistic decisions based on their circumstances Provide clear discharge instructions and ensure continuity of care Team Collaboration & Leadership Collaborate closely with veterinary technicians, assistants, and support staff Provide guidance and mentorship to clinic team members Contribute to a positive, solutions-oriented team culture Assist in refining medical protocols and service delivery models based on patient and community needs Administrative Maintain accurate and timely medical records Document exam findings, diagnostics, and treatment plans Support efficient clinic flow and scheduling
Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM or equivalent) Current Washington State veterinary license (or ability to obtain within 60 days) Strong clinical skills in general small animal medicine Excellent communication and client education skills Commitment to low-stress handling and patient-centered care Sound clinical judgment and ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced environment Alignment with mission-driven, access-to-care veterinary services Preferred Experience 3+ years of general practice experience strongly preferred Experience with high-volume or community medicine settings a plus Surgical experience (spay/neuter or outpatient procedures) helpful but not required Experience working with underserved populations or access-to-care models a plus Leadership or mentorship experience a plus Compensation The annual salary range for this position is $115,000 - $125,000. The starting pay within that range is dependent upon experience.
Rescue. Return. Restore. Rehome. Reconnect.
One animal at a time
Values: Compassion. Collaboration. Excellence. Service. Integrity.
Displays interest, enthusiasm, and an affinity for working with people. Demonstrates an attitude in being of-service, using good judgment, maintaining a positive outlook, and ideally, a sense of humor. Works well in teams and demonstrates an attitude and commitment to collaboration with a sincere interest in helping others succeed. Is committed to achieving excellence individually and as a part of the team. Exhibits adaptability, curiosity, flexibility to change, open to new ideas, and encourages others to recognize changes in work tasks, situations, and environment as an opportunity for transformation. Is committed to personal and professional development through life-long learning. Physical Requirements & Work Conditions Work requires standing for long periods and performing repetitive motions. Ability to lift up to 40 lbs and handle cats of varying temperaments. Exposure to allergens, anesthetic agents, zoonotic diseases, and cleaning agents. 3 or 4-day workweek with no weekend, evening, or holiday shifts.
Does HSSW sound like the right place for you? Does this job sound like a great fit & do you meet the qualifications for this position? If so, then click the Apply button to begin your journey to join our team today. HSSW participates in E-Verify The Humane Society for Southwest Washington is an equal opportunity employer and provides reasonable accommodations during the hiring process for qualified applicants with disabilities.
Open until filled.
Requires a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) degree and a current Washington State veterinary license. Strong clinical skills in small animal medicine and a commitment to mission-driven, access-to-care services are essential.
Market context
In Washington, community medicine veterinarian roles typically reflect steady demand for small animal care, especially in access-to-care settings that serve a broad client base. These positions are competitive because employers look for a DVM, a current Washington veterinary license, strong clinical skills, and a clear commitment to mission-driven care. Review the AI-summarized requirements and benefits on this page to quickly compare fit, then confirm your license status and community medicine experience before applying.