Description

This position is eligible for a Tiered Sign-On Bonus up to $5,000.

As Chief Veterinarian, you will go beyond clinical care by leading programs that keep animals healthy from intake to adoption, including high-volume spay/neuter, vaccination, and preventive care. You will develop practical, innovative strategies to protect population health and create individualized plans for animals with complex medical or behavioral needs.

Why This Opportunity Matters

• Lead a shelter medicine program supported by strong county commitment and community engagement
• Influence policies, protocols, and population management decisions with your expertise
• Access continuing education and professional development to keep your skills current
• Make a measurable difference in animal welfare while serving a community that values public service

This position combines hands-on medicine with system-wide impact, including guiding protocols, overseeing population management, and fostering a culture of excellence that balances animal well-being with outstanding service to the public. Your strategic thinking, creative problem-solving, and community focus will directly shape live-release outcomes and the center’s long-term success.

About Our Team
The Wake County Animal Center is an open-admission animal shelter operated by Wake County. We receive all stray, abandoned and surrendered pets in Wake County. The Center works in partnership with fosters, volunteers and local rescues, to treat and rehome thousands of homeless animals every year.

How Will We Know You're 'The One'?

You’re more than a skilled shelter veterinarian, a leader, a problem-solver, and an advocate for shelter animals. We’re looking for someone who brings:

• Shelter medicine expertise: Proven knowledge of high-volume spay/neuter, preventive health, and treatment of common shelter diseases
• Customer and community focus: Ability to communicate clearly and compassionately with adopters, fosters, volunteers, and the public to build trust and provide excellent service
• Commitment to quality care: Dedication to evidence-based protocols that protect population health and support high live-release outcomes
• Creative problem-solving: Skill in identifying new pathways for animals in our care to thrive
• Leadership and mentorship: Experience guiding veterinary and support teams, setting clear standards, and fostering professional growth
• Behavioral understanding: Ability to recognize and manage stress-related or abnormal animal behavior using best-practice interventions
• Strategic thinking: Capacity to balance immediate medical needs with long-term program planning and continuous improvement

Requirements

• Doctorate in Veterinary Medicine
• One year of veterinary experience
• NCVL - North Carolina Veterinary License
• USDA APHIS Accreditation
• DEA Registration
• Valid Driver's License and "safe" driving record

Beyond the Basics (Preferred Education and Experience)

• Three years of shelter medicine experience
• One year of high quality-high volume spay-neuter experience
• Two years of clinical private practice experience
• One year of supervisory experience