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Per Diem Racetrack Veterinarian Jobs in Raleigh, NC

Per Diem Racetrack Veterinarian information

See Raleigh, NC salary details

$48.1K

$160.9K

$285.8K

How much do per diem racetrack veterinarian jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for per diem racetrack veterinarian in Raleigh, NC is $160,906.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $108,900.00 and $211,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a per diem racetrack veterinarian?

Per Diem Racetrack Veterinarians are licensed veterinarians who work on a temporary or as-needed basis at horse racetracks. Their main responsibilities include examining racehorses for health and soundness, administering treatments, and ensuring the animals meet the required standards for competition. These veterinarians play a crucial role in maintaining equine welfare and complying with racing regulations. They often collaborate with trainers, owners, and regulatory bodies to promote safe and fair racing conditions.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a per diem racetrack veterinarian?

A Per Diem Racetrack Veterinarian must possess a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) degree, state veterinary licensure, and specialized expertise in equine medicine. Familiarity with diagnostic tools such as portable X-ray machines, ultrasound equipment, and veterinary management software is typically required. Strong observational skills, rapid decision-making, and effective communication with trainers and owners are crucial soft skills. These competencies ensure timely, accurate care for racehorses, safeguard animal welfare, and uphold racing regulations.

What are the typical challenges a per diem racetrack veterinarian might face during race days?

As a Per Diem Racetrack Veterinarian, you may encounter fast-paced and high-pressure situations, especially on race days when timely decision-making is critical. Common challenges include quickly assessing injuries, making recommendations for equine safety, and communicating effectively with trainers, owners, and stewards. Additionally, you’ll need to stay updated with racing regulations and maintain thorough documentation under tight timelines. Adaptability and strong collaboration skills are essential, as you’ll often work with a variety of professionals in a dynamic environment.
What are popular job titles related to Per Diem Racetrack Veterinarian jobs in Raleigh, NC? For Per Diem Racetrack Veterinarian jobs in Raleigh, NC, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities near Raleigh, NC are hiring for Per Diem Racetrack Veterinarian jobs? Cities near Raleigh, NC with the most Per Diem Racetrack Veterinarian job openings:
Infographic showing various Per Diem Racetrack Veterinarian job openings in Raleigh, NC as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 95% Full Time, 1% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $160,906 per year, or $77.4 per hour.

Emergency Veterinarian (Relief) - Cary, NC

Veterinary Emergency Group

Cary, NC • On-site

Per diem

Re-posted 9 days ago


Veterinary Emergency Group rating

6.9

Company rating: 6.9 out of 10

Based on 86 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

15th of 52 rated veterinary


Job description

ABOUT VEG
In 2014, VEG was born with a mission to help people and their pets when they need it most. This meant challenging the status quo and fixing everything that was wrong with the ER experience. Since then, we've expanded rapidly, with hospitals nationwide open 24/7, 365 days a year, and created a better emergency experience-not only for people and their pets, but also for everyone who works here-our VEGgies!
At VEG we find a way to say yes to the career you want in veterinary emergency medicine. This means transforming how ER works, from our open-concept hospitals, where you can handle emergency cases of every kind (even exotics!) to our immersive, customer-focused experience, which helps us give people and their pets the care they deserve.
This also means saying yes to creating the greatest experience possible for our VEGgies. Yes to working in an environment where you can find your place and feel valued for the amazing work you do. Yes to having unparalleled opportunities for learning and mentorship so you can grow where you want to go in your career. And yes to making an impact here in ways you never thought possible.
VEG is a 2025 and 2026 certified Great Place to Work®.
THE JOB
As a per diem Emergency Veterinarian, you're more than just passionate about helping people and their pets; you thrive on it, especially when they need you most. At VEG, we find a way to say yes to supporting you, so you can be the best, most confident ER professional possible and grow your career in unexpected directions. With a culture rooted in mentorship and continuous learning-from on-the-floor guidance to VEG Education programs and unlimited ER-focused CE-you'll never stop learning. You'll handle any emergency that comes through the door, from routine cases to complex surgeries, and treat every kind of pet, including exotics! As a leader on the hospital floor, you'll have the chance to be a superhero for your customers, backed by a team and resources that empower you to take your career further than you ever imagined.
WHAT YOU'LL DO
  • Answer medical questions over the phone
  • See patients right away as part of the VEG Triage and VEG Spikes, our unique, customer-centered way of doing things-like ensuring people see a doctor right away and allowing families to stay with their pets
  • Gather the signalment, presenting complaint, vitals, and physical exam
  • Conduct physical examinations of animals, along with other required investigatory measures such as ultrasounds, X-rays, bloodwork, and biopsies
  • Complete a diagnosis of each pet's condition to create a diagnostic and therapeutic plan
  • Communicate diagnosis and treatment options directly with customers
  • Prepare estimates and present them to customers
  • Create and review medical records to ensure accuracy
  • Demonstrate the value of tests and treatments performed by speaking with the customer and addressing their concerns
  • Perform minor and major emergency surgeries
  • Perform endoscopic procedures
  • Educate customers on after care and preventative measures where appropriate

WHAT YOU NEED
  • A DVM or equivalent degree
  • Live and breathe emergency medicine, including emergency surgery (the soft tissue kind!)and endoscopy
  • Thrive in team-oriented environments (think hospital retreats, team dinners, happy hours, and more)
  • Ability to stand for prolonged hours, kneel, and work on the floor as well as ability to lift up to 25 kg on own and able to support up to 40 kg with assistance
  • Must be willing to work in a noisy environment with strong or unpleasant odors
  • Availability to work nights, weekends, and holidays on a rotating or as needed basis based on hospital needs
  • Work well in a fast-paced environment with people from all backgrounds and different personality types

WHO YOU ARE
  • Empathetic, instinctively taking a people-centric approach, whether supporting your colleagues or making an effort to understand different perspectives
  • Have a sense of humility; acknowledging mistakes, sharing credit with others, and lifting up your team's' accomplishments
  • Feel a strong sense of ownership over your work, taking responsibility for outcomes and staying committed to achieving long-term, impactful results
  • Curious by nature; you ask insightful questions and continuously seek out opportunities to learn and grow your skills and knowledge

HOW WE INVEST IN YOU
  • Competitive compensation
  • Flexible work schedules to support your life outside of work
  • Generous referral reward program, so our awesome people can bring in more awesome people
  • And the little (big) things, like comfy scrubs, cool VEG swag, food in the fridge for when you're hungry

DEI
At VEG, diversity is not just a word-it's a strength that fuels innovation and kindness. Our mission is "Helping people and their pets when they need it most." And we do that better when our VEGgies (employees) feel valued, respected, and empowered to bring their authentic selves to work. That's why we're devoted to creating an environment that reflects the diverse communities we serve-where different perspectives are not only welcomed but celebrated.
We are focused on providing equitable opportunities for growth, promoting inclusive decision-making, and ensuring that everyone's perspective is considered. Saying yes to VEG means helping us build a culture where your unique experiences and background contribute to a shared vision: being the world's veterinary emergency company.

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