Lead a respected companion-animal hospital as Medical Director in Santa Rosa, CA, with compensation up to $195,000. Eligible candidates may also receive signing, retention, and relocation packages up to $100,000.
The Hospital
This full-service, community-focused hospital delivers preventive care, internal medicine, surgery, dentistry, and oncology services for dogs, cats, and select small mammals and birds. The team culture centers on compassionate communication, organized workflows, and collaborative case management between doctors and skilled support staff. Clinicians benefit from on-site diagnostics and an in-house laboratory for rapid results, diagnostic imaging to support comprehensive workups, a dedicated surgical suite, and an integrated online pharmacy for streamlined client service. Therapeutic laser options and modern client tools such as online booking help support a smooth, efficient day. Predictable daytime hours and defined support roles contribute to a stable, collegial environment that values professional growth and mentorship.
Location
The role is based in Santa Rosa, CA - the county seat in the heart of Sonoma County Wine Country. Santa Rosa blends a lively downtown and historic Railroad Square with abundant outdoor recreation, a strong healthcare and education presence, and convenient regional travel options via Highway 101 and a nearby regional airport.
- Central to Sonoma County Wine Country with easy access to wineries, tasting rooms, and farm-to-table dining
- Extensive parks and trails nearby, including Spring Lake, Howarth Park, and Annadel State Park for hiking, boating, and cycling
- Vibrant arts and culture with theaters, galleries, and year-round performances
- Historic, walkable downtown with boutiques, cafes, and a preserved streetscape
- Thriving craft beverage scene that complements the wine region
- Charles M. Schulz - Sonoma County Airport provides convenient regional air service
- Good regional transit and highway connections; San Francisco is within driving distance
- Mild Mediterranean climate supports year-round outdoor living
- Quick access to redwood forests and the Sonoma Coast for day trips and weekend adventures
Benefits
- Signing, retention, and relocation packages up to $100,000
- No negative accrual production model
- Annual Medical Director stipend
- Comprehensive health benefits (medical, dental, vision) with FSA/HSA options
- 401(k) with employer contribution
- Generous paid time off
- Substantial CE allowance plus additional paid CE time
- Reimbursement for professional licenses and membership dues
- Paid parental leave (birth, adoption, foster)
- Employee pet care discounts
- Wellbeing resources, including 24/7 employee assistance support
- Flexible scheduling within predictable daytime hours
- Professional liability coverage
- Short- and long-term disability and life insurance
- Mentorship and career development resources
The Role
- Lead medical standards and quality of care; establish and refine clinical protocols and policies
- Provide clinical care, including appointments, procedures, and dentistry, while modeling best practices
- Mentor, coach, and support veterinarians and the wider team; facilitate collaborative rounds and ongoing training
- Partner with hospital leadership on budgeting, inventory, and equipment planning
- Ensure accurate medical records, appropriate handling of controlled substances, and adherence to regulatory requirements
- Champion excellent client communication and service recovery; address escalations and collaborate on resolutions
- Participate in DVM hiring, onboarding, and performance coaching
- Monitor key performance indicators and collaborate on initiatives that drive hospital growth and service expansion
Requirements
- DVM or VMD degree from an accredited institution
- License (or eligibility) to practice veterinary medicine in California
- DEA registration (or eligibility)
- 3-5+ years of clinical experience with strong diagnostic, medical, surgical, and dental skills
- Demonstrated leadership, communication, and team-building abilities
- Ability to meet the physical requirements of the role, including lifting up to 50 pounds
- Eligibility to work in the United States
How to Apply
Ready to lead a high-performing team in one of Northern California’s most desirable communities? Click apply and one of our team will be in touch shortly.