Surgeon, Small Animal

About the Role

Guardian Veterinary Centre, a well-established specialty hospital in Edmonton, is seeking a Board-Certified Surgeon to join its growing surgical team. Since 2007, the practice has built strong relationships throughout its referral community, serving Northern Alberta, Northern British Columbia, Yukon, the Northwest Territories, and Nunavut. You'll work alongside specialists who have collaborated for over a decade, building a foundation of trust and mutual respect that extends to every patient and referring veterinarian.

Beyond exceptional clinical work, you'll actively mentor interns, residents, and support staff in a collaborative learning environment. The practice offers flexibility with scheduling—whether you're seeking full-time, part-time, or a customized arrangement, they'll work with your needs. A $100,000 signing bonus is available for board-certified surgeons. The hospital features a state-of-the-art 20,000 square foot facility with newly updated CT, ultrasound, fluoroscopy, endoscopy, and arthroscopy equipment. An exciting expansion is underway this year, adding 10,000 square feet with an MRI, dedicated ICU, and additional exam and procedure rooms.

Edmonton offers the largest urban parkland in Canada with over 7,300 hectares along the beautiful North Saskatchewan River. The city hosts world-renowned festivals including Folk Fest and the Fringe Festival, and you're just a short drive from the majestic Rocky Mountains—Jasper and Banff National Parks are home to world-class hiking, camping, rafting, and skiing. Rogers Place brings top entertainment and our NHL team, the Edmonton Oilers.

Key Responsibilities

• Perform advanced surgical procedures and deliver exceptional patient care while maintaining high clinical standards
• Provide clear, compassionate communication with pet parents, explaining surgical procedures, expected outcomes, and supporting them throughout their pet's care journey
• Mentor and educate interns, residents, and support staff in a collaborative, learning-focused environment
• Support and educate the referral network throughout the year, sharing expertise on innovative surgical procedures and advancements in veterinary surgery

Requirements

• Successful completion of a veterinary surgery residency program with board certification or eligibility to sit for the certification examination
• Strong client communication skills with commitment to partnering with pet parents
• Passion for mentoring and collaborative learning

Benefits

• Competitive compensation package with production opportunities
• $100,000 signing bonus for board-certified surgeons
• Relocation support available
• RRSP 5% Employer Group Match Program
• VCA Canada RRSP Student Loan Program
• Medical Library Access: 2,000+ journals, 600+ textbooks, research, and more
• Continuing education benefits
• Career and leadership opportunities
• Licensing, membership dues, and conference fees covered
• Referral bonus rewards
• Paid wellness days, paid sick days, paid vacation time
• Employee assistance programs
• E-tools for meditation, better sleep, exercise, and focus
• Virtual health care with quick access to quality care
• Professional liability insurance coverage
• Opportunities to give back in your community through VCA Canada initiatives

About the Practice

Guardian Veterinary Centre is part of VCA Canada, a network of veterinary hospitals with nearly 45 years of commitment to positively impacting pets, people, and local communities. What truly sets Guardian apart is its hospital culture—specialists work as a strong, highly collaborative team to deliver exceptional patient care. The current specialty team includes members who have been together for at least 10 years, creating a strong foundation of trust and support. Registered Veterinary Technologists are highly skilled, utilized to their fullest potential, and eager to learn. The energetic, experienced emergency team works closely with specialists, and doctors are deeply respected by the referring community.

In 2017, VCA Canada became part of Mars Veterinary Health, strengthening commitment to the veterinary profession. The organization has been named one of Alberta's Top Employers for the third consecutive year in 2026, and was selected as one of Canada's Top Employers for Young People 2026, recognizing exceptional places to work and career development programs.