Veterinary jobs span clinical practice, emergency and specialty medicine, research, public health and practice leadership. Whether you are a veterinarian looking for your next role or a clinic searching for veterinarians for hire, demand is high and the market favors qualified, licensed professionals. Pulivarthi Group connects veterinarians, technicians and practice leaders with clinics and hospitals across the U.S.
The Veterinary Job Market in 2026
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, there were about 91,100 veterinarian jobs in the U.S., with employment projected to grow 9% from 2025 to 2035, faster than the average for all occupations. Veterinary technician employment is projected to grow 9% over the same period.
- Practices are competing for a limited pool of licensed DVMs and credentialed technicians.
- Pet ownership and spending on veterinary care continue to support new openings.
- Relief, per diem and contract work give veterinarians more control over schedules and pay.
Types of Veterinary Jobs Available
- Veterinarian (DVM/VMD): general practice, emergency and critical care, specialty medicine, shelter and public health
- Veterinary technician (CVT/LVT/RVT): anesthesia, surgery, dentistry, diagnostics and client education
- Veterinary assistant: patient handling, kennel care and clinical support
- Practice manager and medical director: operations, people, finance and clinical leadership
- Client service and reception: scheduling, communication and medical records
Relief, Per Diem, Contract and Permanent Veterinary Jobs
Not every role is a full-time staff position. Relief veterinarians cover leave and vacations, often for a day to several months. Per diem roles fill individual shifts such as weekends and holidays. Contract roles commit you to a practice for a set term, usually three to twelve months. Permanent roles are direct hires onto a practice payroll. Many veterinarians combine relief and contract work before choosing a permanent home.
Veterinary Job Salaries
| Role | U.S. median pay (May 2025) |
|---|---|
| Veterinarian | $130,100 |
| Veterinary technologist or technician | $47,380 |
| Veterinary assistant | $38,150 |
| Medical and health services manager | $123,860 |
Sources: Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook (veterinarians, technicians, assistants, managers). Relief veterinarians commonly earn $600 to $1,500 per day depending on market and shift.
Veterinarians for Hire: How Clinics Find Licensed Vets Fast
If you run a practice and need veterinarians for hire, the right route depends on how long you need coverage:
- A long-term hire: permanent veterinary staffing
- Leave, vacation or a sudden resignation: temporary veterinary staffing with licensed relief vets
- Individual shifts and weekends: per diem veterinary staffing
- A three- to twelve-month need: contract veterinary staffing
To hire a general practice associate, see how to hire an associate veterinarian, compare providers in our list of the top veterinary staffing agencies, or request a staffing quote.
How to Apply for Veterinary Jobs
Create a candidate profile on our talent page and tell us your license states, preferred settings and schedule. Our recruiters match you with relief, contract and permanent openings. New to the field? Read our guide on how to become an associate veterinarian.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can clinics find veterinarians for hire?
Clinics usually find veterinarians through a staffing agency, a veterinary recruiter, job boards such as the AVMA Career Center, or relief platforms. An agency like Pulivarthi Group can supply relief, contract, per diem and permanent veterinarians, with licensure verified before placement.
How much do veterinarians earn in 2026?
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports a median annual wage of $130,100 for veterinarians (May 2025). Relief veterinarians commonly earn $600 to $1,500 per day depending on market, shift and specialty.
Are relief and per diem veterinary jobs available?
Yes. Relief, per diem and contract roles are in steady demand because many practices use them to cover leave, vacations and gaps between permanent hires.
How do I apply for veterinary jobs through Pulivarthi Group?
Create a candidate profile on our talent page and our recruiters will match you with relief, contract and permanent openings that fit your license, location and schedule.
