Advance Your Veterinary Career with the Department of the Army
Are you a skilled veterinarian searching for a role that combines professional medical practice with a mission-driven environment? The Department of the Army is currently recruiting for a Veterinarian (NF-04) at the Fort Belvoir Veterinary Treatment Facility. This role offers the unique chance to support military personnel and their families by providing top-tier care to their pets, all while working within a stable, predictable, and supportive government framework.
Job Responsibilities
In this role, you will act as the primary clinical veterinarian. Key responsibilities include:
- Wellness Exams: Performing routine health checks and advising clients on disease prevention.
- Surgery & Treatment: Conducting surgical procedures and treating injuries or illnesses.
- Diagnostics: Collecting and interpreting laboratory samples, including blood, urine, and tissue.
- Administrative Oversight: Maintaining accurate medical records and issuing health certificates.
- Leadership: Mentoring Animal Health Assistants on nursing standards and animal handling.
Requirements
To be considered for this position, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Education: A DVM or VMD degree from an AVMA-accredited institution.
- Licensure: An active, unrestricted state veterinary license.
- Physicality: Ability to lift 45 lbs and perform tasks requiring kneeling, standing, and reaching.
- Documentation: Provide official transcripts prior to onboarding.
Comparison Table: Why Choose Federal Veterinary Practice?
| Feature | Private Practice | DoD Veterinary Practice |
|---|---|---|
| Work-Life Balance | Often high-stress/on-call | Highly predictable/structured |
| Mission | Profit-driven | Beneficiary-focused |
| Benefits | Varies widely | Comprehensive federal package |
| Mentorship | Varies | Strong peer/specialist network |
Salary Overview
This position offers a competitive compensation package ranging from $100,000 to $110,000 annually. The salary is pro-rated based on a 40-hour work week, ensuring fair compensation for your expertise.
Benefits
Employees of the Army Non-Appropriated Funds (NAF) enjoy a robust benefits suite, including:
- Medical, dental, and life insurance.
- 401(k) retirement plans.
- Paid personal time off and all federal holidays.
- Access to on-base fitness facilities and amenities.
Application Tips
- Respect the Limit: Your resume must be two pages or less. Use clear, bulleted points to highlight your relevant experience.
- Be Specific: Do not assume the hiring panel knows your previous duties. Explicitly detail your surgical experience and clinical expertise.
- Use Official Channels: Always apply through the official USAJOBS platform to ensure your application reaches the correct hiring team.
Serving as a Veterinarian at Fort Belvoir is more than just a job; it is an opportunity to provide a meaningful service to military families while maintaining a balanced, professional life. If you meet the qualifications, we encourage you to prepare your application package and apply before the October 27, 2026, deadline.
Why This Veterinarian Nf-04 Job Matters
Transform your veterinary career at Fort Belvoir: Provide exceptional care to military families while enjoying a balanced, fulfilling lifestyle in a premier federal facility.
Veterinarian Nf-04 Job Overview
The Department of the Army is seeking a dedicated Veterinarian to join the Fort Belvoir Veterinary Treatment Facility. In this role, you will provide comprehensive wellness care, surgical services, and medical diagnostics for animals owned by service members and their families. This is a unique opportunity to work within a professional Department of Defense environment that prioritizes patient outcomes and employee work-life balance.
Requirements for Veterinarian Nf-04
- Possess a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) or Veterinary Medical Doctor (VMD) degree from an AVMA-accredited institution.
- Hold a valid, unrestricted state license to practice veterinary medicine in any U.S. state.
- Must be able to lift at least 45 lbs.
- Must be physically capable of performing duties involving standing, restraining animals, kneeling, and reaching for extended periods.
- Must provide official transcripts upon hiring.
Preferred Qualifications for Veterinarian Nf-04
- Possession of active USDA/APHIS accreditation.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive health and life insurance options.
- ✓Participation in 401(k) and retirement savings plans.
- ✓Paid personal time off and federal holidays.
- ✓Access to on-base amenities, including fitness centers and libraries.
- ✓Professional development through specialized training and certification programs.
💡 How to Apply Veterinarian Nf-04 Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Veterinarian Nf-04 Job
- Create or update your USAJOBS account.
- Prepare a resume that is strictly two pages or less.
- Gather required documents, including DVM/VMD degree, active state license, and transcripts.
- Apply online via the USAJOBS portal before the October 27, 2026 deadline.
- Complete the mandatory assessment questionnaire accurately.
- Monitor your email for status updates and follow-up requests.
💡 General Tips
- Keep your resume to exactly two pages; exceeding this limit will negatively impact your application.
- Ensure your resume specifically addresses the skills and duties listed in the announcement rather than using generic language.
- Double-check that all contact information is accurate and your email is configured to receive messages from government servers.
- Upload your documents as PDF files to preserve formatting and page count.
- Submit your application early to account for potential technical delays or virus scanning times.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the expected work schedule for this position?
This position is for 20 guaranteed hours per week, with the possibility of being scheduled between 20 and 39 hours.
Are relocation expenses covered?
No, Permanent Change of Station (PCS) costs are not authorized for this position.
Can I submit a paper application?
Yes, but you must contact the servicing NAF Human Resources office directly to request the appropriate forms.
Do I need a security clearance?
No, a security clearance is not required for this specific role.
Is telework available?
No, this position requires on-site presence at the Fort Belvoir facility.
Can I apply if I live outside the commuting area?
Yes, provided you are willing to relocate at your own expense.
Job from U.S. Army Medical Command
The U.S. Army Medical Command, through its network of over 130 veterinary clinics, is dedicated to providing high-quality, affordable wellness care for animals. By joining this team, you become a vital part of the Department of Defense community, contributing to the wellness of service members' families and helping to mentor the next generation of animal health assistants.