Associate Veterinarian Aspiring Leadership in Des Moines

Additional Hospital Information & What We Are Looking For:

Associate Veterinarian (Aspiring Leadership) – Des Moines, IA

• Interest In: Small-animal general practice as an Associate Veterinarian with potential aspirations for clinical leadership. Clinical interests may include preventative care, wellness, diagnostics, dentistry, soft-tissue surgery, internal medicine, urgent/same-day care, and client education. Opportunities exist to work across a variety of hospital settings depending on interest and long-term goals within the Des Moines market.

• Associate Veterinarian with Leadership Aspirations: We are seeking an Associate Veterinarian who has an interest in growing into a Medical Lead role over time. This is an ideal opportunity for a veterinarian who enjoys practicing high-quality medicine and is also motivated to take on increased responsibility in clinical decision-making, team support, and shaping medical standards.

• Leadership Development Opportunity: This role is designed for veterinarians who want more than just a traditional associate position. You’ll have the opportunity to develop leadership skills, contribute to medical protocols, support team alignment, and partner with hospital leadership creating a natural pathway into a future Medical Lead position within the Des Moines market.

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• Open to New Graduates or Experienced Veterinarians: We welcome both new graduates and experienced veterinarians, with a supportive, team-oriented environment that encourages learning, collaboration, and professional growth. New grads will benefit from mentorship and strong case exposure, while experienced veterinarians will enjoy autonomy and the ability to practice high-quality medicine with a loyal client base. For new graduates, we offer a well-developed, structured one-year mentorship program designed to provide consistent support, hands-on learning, and confidence-building throughout your first year in practice. 

• Supportive, Experienced Technical Staff: Work alongside highly skilled technician teams and experienced support staff who enable efficient workflows, strong patient care, and high-quality medicine allowing you to focus on both clinical excellence and professional growth.

• Flexible Hospital & Caseload Exposure: Opportunities may exist to practice in General Practice, Urgent Care, or hybrid environments, with flexibility to align your caseload and schedule with your clinical interests and long-term leadership goals.

• Collaborative Team Environment: Join a hospital that values communication, mentorship, and professional development, where veterinarians are encouraged to share knowledge, build confidence, and grow into leadership roles at their own pace.

• Patient Mix: A diverse small-animal caseload primarily consisting of dogs and cats, with opportunities for urgent care, advanced procedures, exotics potential, and varied case exposure depending on hospital placement and interest.

Apply today for immediate consideration!

If you’re a veterinarian who enjoys practicing great medicine and is excited about growing into a leadership role, we’d love to connect.

For confidential consideration, please send your resume to Katie Shaffer at: katie.shaffer@mvetpartners.com

All applications and conversations are upheld with the utmost discretion and professionalism.

Why Des Moines, IA?

Located in the heart of the Midwest, Des Moines offers a welcoming, affordable lifestyle with a strong sense of community and growing opportunities. Residents enjoy a vibrant downtown, local restaurants and breweries, outdoor recreation including trails and parks, and a calendar full of community events and festivals. With short commute times, a lower cost of living, and a balance of urban amenities and Midwestern charm, Des Moines provides an excellent place to build both your veterinary career and your life outside of work.

What Your Day-to-Day Looks Like

• Build Lasting Relationships: Connect with clients and their pets, becoming their trusted partner in a pet's lifelong health.
• Practice Your Best Medicine: From diagnosis to treatment, you'll lead patient care with the freedom to uphold the highest standards.
• Educate and Empower: Clearly communicate findings and treatment plans, empowering clients to make informed decisions.
• Collaborate and Grow: Work alongside a supportive paraprofessional team, contributing to a positive hospital culture.

Who We're Looking For

• Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) degree.
• A valid state license and in good standing to practice.
• A collaborative spirit and a dedication to practicing the highest standard of medicine.
• Excellent communication skills with a positive, friendly attitude.