Agriculture & Food

Veterinarian

SOC 29-1131.00 · ESCO 2250 · OSCA 269531

Role snapshot

Overview

Examines, diagnoses, and treats animals ranging from household pets to livestock, performing surgeries, prescribing medications, and advising owners on nutrition and preventive care. Veterinarians safeguard animal health and welfare, contributing to public health by managing zoonotic diseases and ensuring food safety.

Ensures the health and well-being of animals, prevents the spread of diseases, and provides compassionate care, often supporting the emotional health of pet owners and the economic stability of agricultural producers.

On the job

Diagnose illnesses and injuries in animals through physical exams, lab tests, and imaging.
Perform surgical procedures, including spays, neuters, and more complex operations.
Administer vaccinations and prescribe medications.
Advise animal owners on preventive care, nutrition, and behavior.
Respond to emergency cases and provide critical care for sick or injured animals.

Tools & technology

StethoscopeX-ray and ultrasound machinesSurgical instrumentsMicroscopesLaboratory diagnostic equipmentVeterinary practice management software

Average salary

$100K

MEDIAN SALARY Annual · USD

$75K Bottom 10%

$140K Top 10%

Job outlook

Growing

Job growth is expected to be above average over the next five years.

Education & training

Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) degree required, followed by state licensing.

Career pathways

WHERE YOU COULD GO

Senior Veterinarian

Veterinary Practice Owner

Veterinary Specialist (e.g., Surgeon, Oncologist)

CURRENT ROLE

Veterinarian

Agriculture & Food

ADJACENT MOVES

Veterinary Researcher

Animal Nutritionist

Veterinary Intern

New Graduate Veterinarian

STARTING POINTS

Who thrives here

Interest profile

realistic · RIC

Individuals who are practical, enjoy working with animals, solving scientific problems, and applying systematic methods to diagnose and treat diseases will find this role fulfilling.

Personality characteristics

Curious

Enjoys investigating complex medical cases and learning about new treatments and techniques in animal health.

Conscientious

Meticulous in diagnosis, treatment, and surgical procedures, ensuring the highest standards of animal welfare.

Empathetic

Shows compassion for animals and understands the emotional concerns of their owners, providing supportive care.

Resilient

Manages emotional demands and stressful situations, such as emergencies or difficult prognoses, with professional composure.

Practical

Prefers hands-on work with animals and tangible solutions to health problems, applying scientific knowledge effectively.

Best for

People passionate about animal health and welfare, with a strong scientific aptitude.
Those who thrive on solving complex biological puzzles and performing precise medical and surgical procedures.
Individuals who can balance scientific rigor with compassionate communication with animal owners.

Watch out for

Can be emotionally demanding, dealing with animal suffering, owner grief, and ethical dilemmas.
Irregular hours and emergency calls can disrupt personal time and require significant commitment.
Requires continuous education to stay updated with rapidly evolving medical advancements and regulations.