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
[email protected] 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
