Careers

The team at Barta Animal Hospital is growing, come join our team!

About The Area

Independence, Kansas, offers a charming blend of small-town warmth and rich historical heritage, making it an ideal place to call home. Residents enjoy a close-knit community with a low cost of living and affordable housing options. The town boasts excellent schools, beautiful parks, and a variety of family-friendly events, fostering a strong sense of community. With its picturesque downtown, vibrant local businesses, and proximity to scenic natural attractions, Independence provides a peaceful yet engaging environment for people of all ages.

Join the Barta family, where every day is an opportunity to make a difference in the lives of pets and their families! We are a close-knit team of animal lovers dedicated to providing top-notch care in a warm, friendly environment. At Barta Animal Hospital, we believe in treating each patient as if they were our own, delivering compassionate care with a personal touch. Whether you’re a seasoned vet or just starting your career in the industry, you’ll find a collaborative atmosphere where your love and dedication for animals can truly shine. We invite you to come be a part of something truly special in Independence, KS!

Job Openings

Veterinarian
Dr. Barta opened Barta Animal Hospital in January 1973 in a former automotive repair shop that he had remodeled. He built a new clinic in 1997. Dr. Barta grew his clinic from one doctor and two staff into today’s successful, growing practice.

We are a true mixed animal practice, providing high-quality veterinary services in Southeast Kansas for pets of all sizes.

Position Purpose:

$50K Sign-On Bonus! | Associate Veterinarian | Mixed Animal Medicine with Heart
Independence, Kansas

At Barta Animal Hospital, we’ve been caring for pets, livestock, and even the occasional zoo animal since 1973. Our roots run deep in Southeast Kansas, but our vibe is anything but old-school. We believe in modern medicine, genuine connections, and making sure both our patients and our people feel seen, heard, and supported.

We’re looking for a veterinarian who wants more than “just a job.” You want community. You want purpose. You want to work with a team that has your back, celebrates your wins, and gives you the flexibility to have a life outside the clinic (hello, Unlimited Personal Time Away).

Why You’ll Love It Here

A Culture You Can Breathe In – No egos, no drama—just good people who care about what they do.
Variety Every Day – From small animal wellness visits to farm calls and even caring for the town’s free zoo animals. (Yep, that’s a thing.)
Mentorship That Matters – Dr. Cooper is a large animal legend, and his mentorship has shaped incredible careers—like Dr. Wilczek, who now works side-by-side with him.
Tools That Work as Hard as You Do – Hydraulic cattle chute, in-house IDEXX lab, digital & portable x-ray, brand-new ultrasound, and digital dental x-ray.
Room to Grow – We’ll support your career path, whether that’s honing your surgical skills, expanding into new species, or becoming a community leader.

Essential Responsibilities:

The Work You’ll Do

  • Provide care for pets and large animals (we love a good mixed-bag day).
  • Diagnose, treat, and perform surgeries.
  • Guide pet parents through preventive care and treatment options.
  • Offer compassionate end-of-life support.

Requirements/Qualifications:

What We’re Looking For

  • DVM degree + state licensure (or ability to get it).
  • You communicate like a human, not a textbook.
  • You’re collaborative, adaptable, and care about your community.

Benefits Offered:

Perks & Benefits

  • Competitive pay (negotiable) + bonus incentives
  • Up to $50,000 Sign-On Bonus (because great doctors deserve great pay!)
  • Unlimited Personal Time Away (yes, really)
  • Health, dental, vision insurance
  • 401(k) and Roth(k) with match
  • CE and licensure reimbursement
  • Flexible scheduling
  • Mental health resources & EAP
  • Relocation assistance if you’re moving in

Life in Independence, KS

This is small-town life with a big heart. Expect neighbors who know your name, clients who bring you cookies, and the freedom to actually enjoy your time off—without a two-hour commute home.

Ready to love your job and your life? Let’s talk.

Pay Range:

USD $90,000.00 – USD $110,000.00 /Yr.

Apply Here!

Externship
Dr. Barta opened Barta Animal Hospital in January 1973 in a former automotive repair shop that he had remodeled. He built a new clinic in 1997. Dr. Barta grew his clinic from one doctor and two staff into today’s successful, growing practice.

We are a true mixed animal practice, providing high-quality veterinary services in Southeast Kansas for pets of all sizes.

Requirements/Qualifications
Eligibility

Must be currently enrolled in an AVMA Accredited Veterinary School

Must be able to provide student PLIT

Apply Here!

Love Where You Work

About Independence, KS

Located in southeast Kansas, Independence is a safe community with great schools, restaurants, family-friendly events, and parks to enjoy all year round. With its low cost of living, Independence makes a great home for young professionals and families.

There are many reasons to fall in love with Independence. If you enjoy the great outdoors, Elk City State Park and Montgomery County State Park are just a few steps away. People can enjoy camping, fishing, hiking, and take in all that nature has to offer. For baseball fanatics, Independence is the home of Shulthis Stadium, which is well known as the home field where Mickey Mantle began his professional baseball career. If you love history, you will enjoy the official Little House on the Prairie historic site.

We welcome you to apply today and become a part of the Independence Community. See you soon at Barta Animal Hospital!