Veterinarian

Job Summary

The Veterinarian works in collaboration with all aspects of Medical Operations and Shelter Operations, providing care for both shelter animals and public clinic patients. This role is highly visible to the public and involves routine interaction across all areas of shelter medicine, public-facing clinic services, and general medical operations.

The primary responsibility is to provide community and shelter animals with professional medical care and management that promotes healthy animals and supports educated pet owners in the Orlando area. The veterinary team works closely together to ensure efficient and cost-effective operations while supporting community members seeking medical information about companion animals.

Responsibilities

• Perform physical exams and assessments of both shelter animals and public clinic patients, and provide tests, inoculations, and other necessary medical care.
• Provide client education to support healthy pet ownership within the community.
• In collaboration with the veterinary team, establish and maintain disease prevention, control, and management programs for both shelter and community animals.
• Maintain accurate medical records, including patient charts, drug logs, and documentation of drug and equipment usage.
• Provide input into staff performance to support a high-functioning, customer-service-focused team.
• Support and contribute to continuing education for designated staff.
• Follow all safety policies and support the department’s safety program to ensure a safe work environment.
• Promote safety practices related to zoonotic diseases, veterinary drugs, disinfectants, chemical restraint, and animal handling.
• Maintain professional dress code and conduct at all times.
• Promote humane treatment of animals through education and example.
• Encourage sterilization of owned animals to help reduce pet overpopulation.
• Perform other duties as assigned to meet organizational needs.

Qualifications

• Graduate of an accredited college of veterinary medicine.
• Valid DEA license.
• Current and valid Florida veterinary license.
• Minimum of two years of relevant professional experience.
• Reliable transportation required.
• Valid driver’s license with a good driving record required.
• Must be reachable by phone for direct access as needed.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Strong commitment to animal welfare and humane treatment of all animals.
• Demonstrated ability to provide compassionate veterinary care.
• Strong knowledge of animal health, disease treatment, and preventive care.
• Ability to assess shelter sanitation and disease prevention needs and make appropriate recommendations.
• Ability to work effectively in a team environment.
• Strong communication skills with the ability to interact tactfully with staff and the public.
• Sound judgment and decision-making aligned with organizational policies and procedures.
• Ability to support staff learning in lab, medical, and surgical procedures.
• Commitment to organizational policies and procedures.
• Ability to contribute toward financial performance goals set by management.

Physical and Mental Demands

• Requires extensive standing and performing surgeries for extended periods.
• Frequent walking, bending, and physical activity throughout shifts.
• Ability to lift up to approximately 50 pounds.
• Must be able to make rapid, well-reasoned, independent decisions in high-pressure situations.
• Ability to teach medical, surgical, and laboratory procedures to staff as needed.
• Ability to manage both routine and complex interpersonal interactions in a fast-paced environment.
• Must be flexible with scheduling and work demands.
• Ability to receive and incorporate guidance from multiple leadership sources.
• Ability to work in a stressful environment where constructive feedback is common.
• Strong customer service and conflict resolution skills required.

Work Environment

• Work is primarily performed in medical areas within shelter facilities and public clinic settings that are open, well-lit, adequately ventilated, but can be noisy.
• Kennel environments may experience extreme heat during summer months.
• Frequent movement between rooms and buildings with potential exposure to temperature extremes.
• May require travel to other locations as determined by organizational needs.
• High level of public interaction in a fast-paced, multi-tasking environment.
• Work conditions may be demanding and occasionally highly stressful due to operational pace and animal care needs.