Chief Veterinarian

Riverside County is seeking a dedicated Chief Veterinarian to join the Department of Animal Services (DAS).

This pivotal role involves overseeing a team of 50 veterinary professionals in the Veterinary Services Team, which delivers crucial services such as spay and neuter surgeries, shelter medicine, and public pet wellness programs.

Additionally, the Team plays a vital role in public health by managing animal bite reporting, prevention, and disease surveillance.

The Chief Veterinarian is responsible for ensuring the comprehensive health and well-being of shelter animals in County facilities through expert medical oversight, surgical care, and effective leadership of veterinary operations.

This includes performing and overseeing spay and neuter surgeries, diagnosing and treating diseases and conditions affecting shelter animals, and providing oversight for anesthesia and medication administration.

The Chief Veterinarian develops and implements medical protocols, treatment plans, and guidelines in accordance with best practices established by the Association of Shelter Veterinarians, ensuring consistent, high-quality care focused on disease prevention, treatment, and the promotion of animal welfare.

This role collaborates with shelter directors and managers to maintain sanitary conditions, uphold animal welfare standards, and oversee humane euthanasia practices.

The Chief Veterinarian manages the health and well-being of the animal population to increase adoptions, reduce unnecessary euthanasia, and minimize returns, while also providing medical supervision for the County's animal foster care program.

As a key member of the department's management team, the Chief Veterinarian supervises and trains staff veterinarians, veterinary technicians, interns, and externs; collaborates with the clinic manager and shelter leadership to develop and deliver training programs for veterinary staff and euthanasia procedures; and manages medical inventory, equipment, and budgets.

The position ensures compliance with all local, state, and federal laws and regulations governing animal health, welfare, and the use of controlled substances, maintaining required veterinary premise permits, DEA licenses, and accurate drug logs.

The Chief Veterinarian assists in the investigation of animal cruelty cases and may serve as an expert witness in legal proceedings.

Additionally, the position advises shelter management on medical programs and policies, liaises with diagnostic laboratories and other agencies, provides guidance to the public on animal health issues, represents the County at public meetings and inter-agency events, and responds to emergencies and natural disasters as required.

The Chief Veterinarian is also tasked with maintaining the DAS Premise Permit and DEA Licenses.

If you possess strong leadership, excellent communication skills, and a compassionate approach to animal welfare, we encourage you to join this dedicated team and make a meaningful impact in...