OPT Animal Surgeon Jobs
Animal Surgeon jobs on OPT require a DVM or equivalent degree and active state veterinary licensure, two requirements that directly affect your OPT timeline. Most positions are in specialty practices, veterinary hospitals, and academic medical centers. Your 12-month OPT window, or 24-month STEM extension if applicable, shapes which roles and residency programs are realistic to pursue.
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Get Access To All JobsAt PetVet Care Centers, our mission is to improve the lives of animals and people — providing exceptional and compassionate care at every stage — for all the moments that matter. Because life is better with pets. We deliver the Ultimate Care Experience — every pet, every client, every time. That starts with a Culture of Care that supports our team members as much as the pets and clients we serve. With more than 420 locally led hospitals and over 11,000 team members nationwide, we offer:
- Local autonomy with national support
- Career mobility and development opportunities
- A collaborative, inclusive environment where your wellbeing comes first
You care for pets. We care for you.
Position Overview
We are seeking a dedicated Board-Certified or Residency Trained Small Animal Veterinary Surgeon to join our team. 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 Manager. This position comes with a Leadership Opportunity for the right candidate!
Atlantic Coast New York Veterinary Specialists (ACNYVS) is a thriving 24-hour specialty and emergency hospital in Bohemia, NY. Bohemia, Long Island, NY, offers a great quality of life, with proximity to beautiful beaches, parks, and easy access to the cultural and culinary offerings of the greater New York City area.
Why Choose ACNYVS?
* State-of-the-Art Facilities: Our hospital is equipped with advanced diagnostic tools, including diagnostic ultrasound, in-house labs, MRI, CT scan, fluoroscopy, and a fully equipped rehabilitation department to provide comprehensive patient care.
* Collaborative and Supportive Environment: Join a talented team of board-certified Surgeons, Internists, Cardiologists, Neurologists, Dermatologists, and an experienced ER team. We work together to provide the best possible care for our patients.
* Comprehensive Surgical Capabilities: As part of our surgical team, you'll have the opportunity to handle a wide range of complex and challenging cases in a collaborative setting. Ask us about our Experience Life Bonus: A special program to enhance your personal well-being and work-life balance!
Ready to take the next step? Apply today! For questions or to connect directly, please email your resume to Emily Lunsford at elunsford@petvetcarecenters.com.
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.
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
Pay Range
$150,000—$200,000 USD
At PetVet Care Centers, we’re committed to a Culture of Care — for pets, for the people who love them, and for the team members who make it all possible. With more than 420 hospitals across the U.S. and a team of over 11,000 dedicated professionals, including 1700+ veterinarians, we offer a unique blend of local leadership and national support that helps our hospitals thrive. Our model is built on partnership, collaboration, and local medical autonomy, empowering each hospital to deliver high-quality care while benefiting from shared resources and a strong professional community. Whether you’re providing care in a hospital or supporting operations behind the scenes, PetVet is a place where you can grow your career, stay connected to your purpose, and make a meaningful impact.
You care for pets. We care for you.
PetVet is an equal opportunity employer. All employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, age, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, marital status, pregnancy, religion, citizenship, national origin/ancestry, physical/mental disabilities, military status or any other basis prohibited by law. EOE, M/F/D/V
PetVet respects your privacy and is committed to protecting your personal information. Please see our privacy notice for additional information about our data practices.
At PetVet Care Centers, our mission is to improve the lives of animals and people — providing exceptional and compassionate care at every stage — for all the moments that matter. Because life is better with pets. We deliver the Ultimate Care Experience — every pet, every client, every time. That starts with a Culture of Care that supports our team members as much as the pets and clients we serve. With more than 420 locally led hospitals and over 11,000 team members nationwide, we offer:
- Local autonomy with national support
- Career mobility and development opportunities
- A collaborative, inclusive environment where your wellbeing comes first
You care for pets. We care for you.
Position Overview
We are seeking a dedicated Board-Certified or Residency Trained Small Animal Veterinary Surgeon to join our team. 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 Manager. This position comes with a Leadership Opportunity for the right candidate!
Atlantic Coast New York Veterinary Specialists (ACNYVS) is a thriving 24-hour specialty and emergency hospital in Bohemia, NY. Bohemia, Long Island, NY, offers a great quality of life, with proximity to beautiful beaches, parks, and easy access to the cultural and culinary offerings of the greater New York City area.
Why Choose ACNYVS?
* State-of-the-Art Facilities: Our hospital is equipped with advanced diagnostic tools, including diagnostic ultrasound, in-house labs, MRI, CT scan, fluoroscopy, and a fully equipped rehabilitation department to provide comprehensive patient care.
* Collaborative and Supportive Environment: Join a talented team of board-certified Surgeons, Internists, Cardiologists, Neurologists, Dermatologists, and an experienced ER team. We work together to provide the best possible care for our patients.
* Comprehensive Surgical Capabilities: As part of our surgical team, you'll have the opportunity to handle a wide range of complex and challenging cases in a collaborative setting. Ask us about our Experience Life Bonus: A special program to enhance your personal well-being and work-life balance!
Ready to take the next step? Apply today! For questions or to connect directly, please email your resume to Emily Lunsford at elunsford@petvetcarecenters.com.
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.
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
Pay Range
$150,000—$200,000 USD
At PetVet Care Centers, we’re committed to a Culture of Care — for pets, for the people who love them, and for the team members who make it all possible. With more than 420 hospitals across the U.S. and a team of over 11,000 dedicated professionals, including 1700+ veterinarians, we offer a unique blend of local leadership and national support that helps our hospitals thrive. Our model is built on partnership, collaboration, and local medical autonomy, empowering each hospital to deliver high-quality care while benefiting from shared resources and a strong professional community. Whether you’re providing care in a hospital or supporting operations behind the scenes, PetVet is a place where you can grow your career, stay connected to your purpose, and make a meaningful impact.
You care for pets. We care for you.
PetVet is an equal opportunity employer. All employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, age, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, marital status, pregnancy, religion, citizenship, national origin/ancestry, physical/mental disabilities, military status or any other basis prohibited by law. EOE, M/F/D/V
PetVet respects your privacy and is committed to protecting your personal information. Please see our privacy notice for additional information about our data practices.
See all OPT Animal Surgeon Jobs
Sign up for free to unlock all listings, filter by visa type, and get alerts for new OPT Animal Surgeon Jobs.
Get Access To All JobsTips for Finding OPT Sponsorship in Animal Surgeon
Apply to specialty practices and veterinary teaching hospitals first
Academic veterinary hospitals and specialty referral practices sponsor OPT students far more often than general practices. They have established HR processes for international staff and are accustomed to managing work authorization paperwork alongside credentialing requirements.
Secure your state veterinary license before your start date
Animal surgeon roles require state licensure before you can practice. Licensing timelines vary by state and can run six to twelve weeks. Start your application immediately after graduation so licensure delays do not eat into your authorized OPT employment period.
Understand how surgical residencies interact with OPT
AVMA-accredited surgical residencies count as authorized OPT employment if structured correctly. Confirm with your DSO that the program qualifies under your field of study before accepting an offer, since misclassification can create serious status violations.
Pursue board certification pathways that align with your OPT timeline
ACVS diplomate candidacy takes three to four years minimum, so most OPT students will transition to H-1B visa or another visa during that process. Discuss H-1B sponsorship intentions explicitly with prospective employers before committing to a residency program.
Ask about H-1B sponsorship during the interview, not after
Specialty veterinary practices hiring surgical residents often have legal counsel experienced with visa sponsorship. Raising H-1B intentions early signals professionalism and gives you critical information before you invest time in a program that cannot support long-term authorization.
Document all employment precisely on your OPT reporting obligations
Animal surgeon roles often involve multiple clinical settings, relief shifts, or academic appointments. Each work location must be reported to your DSO promptly. Gaps longer than 90 days in authorized employment can jeopardize your OPT status and future visa options.
Animal Surgeon OPT: Frequently Asked Questions
Does an animal surgeon role qualify as OPT-eligible employment?
Yes, provided the position directly relates to your veterinary or biomedical degree field. Animal surgeon jobs require a DVM or equivalent, which creates a clear degree-to-role connection that satisfies OPT employment requirements. Confirm the match with your DSO before accepting any offer, since the field-of-study alignment must be documented in SEVIS.
Can I work as an animal surgeon during the OPT application waiting period?
No. You cannot begin working until USCIS approves your EAD card and your authorized start date has arrived. Animal surgeon positions cannot begin under a verbal offer or letter of intent alone. Many practices will hold a position for credentialed candidates, but you must have your physical EAD in hand before your first clinical shift.
Do animal surgeon jobs typically sponsor H-1B visas after OPT?
It varies significantly by employer type. Academic veterinary medical centers and large specialty hospital groups are more likely to sponsor H-1B petitions than small private practices, which often lack the administrative infrastructure. When evaluating residency or staff surgeon offers, ask directly whether the organization has sponsored H-1B petitions previously and whether they work with immigration counsel.
Where can I find animal surgeon jobs open to OPT candidates?
Migrate Mate is the recommended starting point. It filters for employers willing to work with OPT and visa-sponsored candidates, which saves significant time compared to applying broadly and asking about authorization after the fact. Specialty and academic practices that list on Migrate Mate have generally already considered sponsorship as part of their hiring process.
How does the 90-day unemployment limit affect animal surgeon job searches?
USCIS allows a maximum of 90 days of unemployment during post-completion OPT, and up to 150 days total if you receive a STEM extension. Animal surgeon hiring timelines can be long due to credentialing and licensure verification, so start your job search well before your program ends. Any period without an active, qualifying employment arrangement counts against your unemployment limit.