Associate Veterinarian

CareVet Health • Rockford, IL

6d

About The Position

Associate Veterinarian – Established Small Animal Practice | Rockford, IL
CareVet of Rockford is seeking a full-time Associate Veterinarian to join our well-established small animal practice in Rockford, Illinois. Our hospital has proudly served the community since 1986 and has built a strong reputation for compassionate care, long-term client relationships, and quality medicine. This is an excellent opportunity to join a stable, supportive team while practicing medicine in a welcoming and collaborative environment.
About the Hospital
CareVet of Rockford is a trusted, community-focused practice that values teamwork and continuity of care. You will work alongside two experienced veterinarians and a knowledgeable support staff who are committed to helping each other succeed. The practice encourages collaboration, mentorship, and open communication, making it a great fit for both experienced veterinarians and confident newer graduates.
The hospital is well-equipped to support efficient, high-quality medicine and includes ultrasound, digital dental radiography, and a surgical laser, along with a modern surgical suite and strong technical support.
The Role
This is a full-time Associate Veterinarian position in a small animal general practice. The ideal candidate enjoys building relationships with clients, practicing thorough and thoughtful medicine, and working as part of a team. This role is open to both a new graduate seeking strong mentorship as well as an experienced veterinarian looking for a collaborative, stable practice. There is flexibility to pursue areas of interest within general practice, including surgery and dentistry, with support from experienced colleagues.
Living in Rockford, Illinois
Rockford offers an attractive combination of affordability, recreation, and culture. The area features a lower cost of living compared to larger metropolitan areas, affordable housing, and a strong sense of community. Outdoor enthusiasts enjoy Rock Cut State Park and the region’s many trails and waterways, while Anderson Japanese Gardens is nationally recognized for its beauty. Rockford also offers a growing arts and dining scene and is conveniently located within driving distance of Chicago and Madison, providing easy access to big-city amenities while maintaining a relaxed lifestyle.
CareVet Offers You:
Six figure starting salary plus production with no negative accrual
Generous signing bonus, student loan support, relocation stipend and no upfront non-compete.
Custom compensation packages, tailored to the needs of the Veterinarian
Robust benefits package including medical, dental and vision insurance, 401k with match, company-paid short-term disability and life insurance
Parental support including paid parental leave and adoption assistance
Veterinarian-focused culture, schedule flexibility promoting work/life balance and paid time off with free access to Carebnb, CareVet’s vacation properties
Mentorship-driven experience with strong focus on skill development and CE opportunities
Employee Assistance Program with a focus on compassion fatigue and stress support, including access to CareVet’s on-staff licensed social worker
For our full list of Veterinarian benefits, check out CareVet’s Ultimate CarePackage!

Requirements

• Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM/VMD) or equivalent degree required
• Licensure in the state/s candidate will be working
• Ability to show compassion to both pets and their owners
• Outstanding dexterity in handling animals while performing precise tasks
• Ability to react quickly and make decisions under pressure about the wellbeing of an animal
• Strong fondness and understanding of animals
• Good communication and interpersonal skills
• Knowledge of animal behavior
• Ability to use medical technologies during diagnosis, research and surgery of animals

Responsibilities

• Examine animals to assess their health and diagnose problems
• Treat and dress wounds
• Perform surgery on animals
• Test for and vaccinate against diseases
• Operate medical equipment, such as x-ray machines
• Advise animal owners about general care, medical conditions, and treatments
• Prescribe medication
• Work closely in collaboration with team members to provide high quality care

Benefits

• Six figure starting salary plus production with no negative accrual
• Generous signing bonus, student loan support, relocation stipend and no upfront non-compete.
• Custom compensation packages, tailored to the needs of the Veterinarian
• Robust benefits package including medical, dental and vision insurance, 401k with match, company-paid short-term disability and life insurance
• Parental support including paid parental leave and adoption assistance
• Veterinarian-focused culture, schedule flexibility promoting work/life balance and paid time off with free access to Carebnb, CareVet’s vacation properties
• Mentorship-driven experience with strong focus on skill development and CE opportunities
• Employee Assistance Program with a focus on compassion fatigue and stress support, including access to CareVet’s on-staff licensed social worker

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: Ph.D. or professional degree