Wake County Nc Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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.

• 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.

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.

• Doctorate in Veterinary Medicine
• One year of veterinary experience
• NCVL – North Carolina Veterinary License
• USDA APHIS Accreditation
• DEA Registration or the ability to obtain upon hire
• Valid Driver’s License and "safe" driving record
• Equivalent education and experience are NOT accepted

• 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

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

Location: Wake County Animal Control Raleigh, NC 27602

Employment Type: Regular

Work Schedule: Monday – Friday

Hiring Range: 93,813.00 – 131,336.00

Market Range: 96,159.00 – 173,081.00

Wake County provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability or genetics.

Position may require a background check that may include: criminal, credit, motor vehicle, education, and sexual offender registry or others based on job requirements. Unless required by state law, a record of conviction will not automatically exclude you from consideration for employment. Wake County Government is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

In the event of an emergency, as determined by the County Manager or designee, participation in preparedness and response operations should be expected. Employee may be required to fill a temporary assignment in a role different from standard duties, work hours and/or work location in preparation for, during and after the emergency. Employee may also be required to participate in relevant exercises and regular preparedness training.