Veterinary Surgeon

About the Role

Western Veterinary Specialists and Emergency Centre is looking for a Board-Certified Veterinary Surgeon to anchor the surgical programme at this dynamic Calgary referral hospital. You'll work alongside specialists in critical care, ophthalmology, oncology, internal medicine, radiation oncology, and radiology — meaning every case benefits from a multidisciplinary lens and genuine collegial support.

The surgical caseload here is genuinely varied and challenging. You'll have access to state-of-the-art equipment including a C-arm, Arthrex arthroscopy/laparoscopy unit, Synthes locking plate systems for TPLOs, battery-operated driver, and Bio-Medtrix total hip replacement system. Digital radiography, ultrasound, endoscopy, bronchoscopy, fluoroscopy, CT scanner, positive-pressure ventilation, and a linear accelerator round out the facility. The hospital culture emphasizes teamwork and camaraderie — the kind that naturally translates to exceptional care for clients, referring vets, and the community.

Calgary itself is one of the most livable cities in the world, offering everything from outdoor recreation and vibrant dining to cultural attractions and a strong professional community. This is a full-time position with a practice that invests genuinely in your growth and wellbeing.

Key Responsibilities

• Perform surgical procedures across a diverse referral caseload
• Collaborate with board-certified specialists in emergency, critical care, internal medicine, oncology, ophthalmology, and radiology
• Contribute to the hospital's culture of teamwork and evidence-based medicine
• Provide exceptional surgical care that meets the standards of a tertiary referral centre
• Engage with referring veterinarians and pet owners to deliver comprehensive surgical outcomes

Requirements

• Board Certification in Surgery (or equivalent recognized credential)
• Current valid veterinary licence in Alberta
• Demonstrated commitment to ongoing professional development and evidence-based practice

Benefits

• RRSP 5% Employer Group Match Program
• VCA Canada RRSP Student Loan Program (available to eligible candidates)
• VCA Academy Mentorship Program — six-month tailored mentorship with ongoing support
• Medical Library Access — 2,000+ journals, 600+ textbooks, research databases
• Continuing education benefits
• 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, sleep, exercise, and focus support
• Virtual health care access for quick quality care
• Professional liability insurance coverage
• Community involvement opportunities through VCA Canada initiatives

About the Practice

Western Veterinary Specialists and Emergency Centre is part of VCA Canada, a network of veterinary hospitals with headquarters in Calgary and nearly 45 years of commitment to pets, people, and local communities. The practice combines emergency care and specialist referral services under one roof, with disciplines spanning critical care, surgery, ophthalmology, oncology, internal medicine, radiation oncology, radiology, and rehabilitation.

VCA Canada became part of the Mars Veterinary Health family in 2017, strengthening the network's stability and resources. The organization employs over 4,000 Canadians across the country and has been recognized as one of Alberta's Top Employers (2026, third consecutive year) and one of Canada's Top Employers for Young People (2026).