Posted: 30-Dec-25
Location: Brighton, Colorado
Type: Full Time
Salary: $121,926.06 - $176,792.79
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Riverdale Animal Shelter is seeking a skilled and compassionate Veterinarian to serve as Veterinary Medical Director. This role is clinical, managerial, and administrative, overseeing all shelter veterinary operations while providing leadership and direction for the Health Care team. As part of the shelter’s Leadership Team, the Medical Director will bring veterinary voice and perspective to operational decisions, contribute to strategic planning, and develop processes to ensure the quality care of all shelter animals.
The ideal candidate will have hands-on experience and interest in shelter medicine, including performing high-quality, high-volume (HQHV) spay/neuter surgeries, strong organizational and problem-solving skills, and a genuine passion for leading, developing, and mentoring others.
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Clinical Responsibilities (Approximately 40 % of work week)
- Provide timely, quality veterinary care for shelter animals, including exams, vaccinations, diagnostics, and treatment of illnesses and injuries.
- Perform spay/neuter surgeries, dentistry, and other routine procedures and assist with more complex surgeries as needed.
- Develop and follow medical protocols to prevent illness and promote animal health.
- Conduct daily rounds, update treatment plans, and ensure continuity of care.
- Provide direction and guidance for medical care and treatment of foster animals.
- Perform humane euthanasia when necessary and support staff training in compassionate end-of-life care.
- Offer medical input for cruelty, neglect, and abuse cases, including documentation and reporting.
- Coordinate with local and state health departments and regulating authorities.
- Maintain accurate medical records in line with state, federal, and DEA requirements.
Management & Leadership Responsibilities (Approximately 60% of work week)
- Provide direct supervision for shelter veterinarians to include mentorship, skill development, and guidance.
- Provide indirect supervision and leadership for the Health Care team to include veterinary technicians, foster staff, interns, and volunteers.
- Plan and lead team meetings. Oversee recruitment, training, recognition, and disciplinary processes as needed for health care staff.
- Serve on the shelter’s Leadership Team.
- Work effectively with leadership staff across core operational departments to align veterinary operations with the shelter’s mission and goals.
- Build and maintain partnerships with local veterinary clinics, shelters, animal protection agencies, veterinary schools and colleges.
- Develop and oversee veterinary internship placements and processes.
- Implement and continually evaluate health care protocols and best practices.
- Ensure compliance with professional and regulatory standards, including licensure and controlled substance management.
- Support staff development and well-being by continually identifying opportunities to enhance career growth and work-life balance.
- Represent RAS at local, state, and national committees and conferences.
Supervisory Responsibilities:
- Exercise direct supervision of staff
More Qualifications for Success
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- Genuine commitment to animal welfare and the humane treatment of animals.
- In-depth knowledge of shelter medicine, best practices, and related social issues.
- Proven leadership and management skills with experience supervising paid staff.
- Excellent clinical skills, including medical diagnostics, surgery, and dentistry.
- Proficient in HQHV spay/neuter procedures while ensuring high standards of care.
- Skilled in safe and humane animal handling, including fear-free techniques.
- Highly organized with the ability to prioritize, manage emergencies, and work in a fast-paced environment.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills, exhibiting sound judgment in sensitive situations.
- Proficient in Microsoft Office and capable of learning shelter software for accurate medical recordkeeping.
- Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to foster positive, professional relationships with staff, volunteers, and the public.
Location: Riverdale Animal Shelter is located within the beautiful Riverdale Regional Park in Brighton, Colorado, just 20 minutes from downtown Denver.
Work Culture: Shelter medicine is physically and emotionally demanding, yet equally powerful and rewarding work. Our team holds these contrasting realities, while honoring the inherent dignity of animals and people alike. We have one another’s backs, allow people to be themselves, believe in and promote well-being, and count every win, no matter how small. If this type of environment resonates with you, apply today to join our highly professional, fun, and compassionate team.
Education & Experience
- Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) degree.
- Minimum 4 years of experience as a practicing Veterinarian required, including 2 years in shelter medicine or other veterinary setting with a HQHV spay/neuter component.
- Minimum 2 years of experience providing direct supervision of paid staff.
- Experience in an open-admissions shelter strongly preferred
Licenses & Certifications
- Current Colorado veterinary license (or ability to obtain promptly) with a clean practice record.
- DEA license is preferred.
- Veterinary association membership preferred.
- Fear-free certification required within 60 days of hire