Forensic Veterinarian

Summary

At the forefront of Forensic Veterinary Medicine, the Forensic Sciences department advances the ASPCA’s mission by transforming veterinary expertise and forensic science into meaningful justice for animals. Through direct casework, research, training, and outreach, the team not only supports the investigation and prosecution of cruelty cases, but also helps shape the future of veterinary forensic medicine and animal welfare.

Overview

The Forensic Sciences department is comprised of two teams based in New York City, which primarily supports New York City Police Department and District Attorney’s Offices with criminal cases, and Gainesville, Florida, which primarily supports the ASPCA’s national criminal case response. Together, these teams advance the field of veterinary forensic science and disseminate basic forensic knowledge and tools to a broader audience of practicing veterinarians.

Who We Are

The NYC ASPCA Forensic Sciences team applies veterinary and forensic expertise to animal cruelty cases, supporting law enforcement, prosecutors, the veterinary community, and animal victims. Since 2014, in partnership with the NYPD, the team has provided forensic evaluations and expert consultation for suspected animal cruelty cases investigated by the NYPD. The team also contributes to research, training, and the continued advancement of veterinary forensic science.

What You’ll Do

Under the guidance of the Vice President of Forensic Sciences and the Senior Director of Forensic Sciences and alongside three additional forensic veterinarians, the Forensic Veterinarian provides forensic expertise on animal cruelty cases both internally and externally to the NYPD, the NYC District Attorney’s Offices, other law enforcement agencies, and the veterinary community. While there are no direct animal care responsibilities, the Forensic Veterinarian will work closely with animal care teams to monitor the medical progress of case animals and the collection of necessary case evidence. This position has no direct reports.

Where and When You’ll Work

• This position is an on-site role and reports to the ASPCA location at 424 E. 92nd St., New York, NY.
• Schedule may include 1‑2 weekend days.
• Responsible for 1‑2 on‑call nights per week (phone only).

Compensation

Target hiring range $165,000–$176,000. Position eligible for a relocation bonus to non‑local residents. Also qualified for Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program.

Benefits

Our comprehensive benefits package includes affordable health coverage (medical, dental, and optional vision), flexible time off (vacation, paid personal, sick, bereavement, paid parental leave, and 10 company paid holidays), competitive financial incentives and retirement savings (401(k) plan with employer contributions), and robust professional development opportunities (classes, on‑the‑job training, coaching and mentorship, internal mobility, and field support).

Responsibilities

• Provide forensic veterinary case support for NYC animal cruelty and fighting investigations and prosecutions, including clinical forensic exams, necropsies, statements, record and video reviews, discovery, and expert testimony at grand juries, hearings, and trials.
• Ensure proper evidence handling, chain of custody, transfer, and use of standardized forensic methods.
• Assist in planning ASPCA‑NYPD case field responses and provide on‑scene veterinary forensic support, including triage, documentation, and expertise.
• Collaborate with ASPCA departments and external partners to support case management and flow.
• Assist internal and local veterinarians in recognizing and reporting suspect animal cruelty cases.
• Contribute to the development, implementation, and refinement of forensic protocols and procedures.
• Participate in large‑scale case response and deployment as needed.
• Other duties as assigned.

Interdepartmental Communication/Administrative/Other

• Work closely with ASPCA Humane Law Enforcement and Criminal Practice and Investigations teams to enable forensic veterinary support for NYC animal‑related investigations and prosecutions.
• Work with Animal Recovery Center and the Rescue and Rehabilitation Center to ensure proper management and forensic follow‑up care for animals from suspected criminal cases.
• Provide consultation across ASPCA departments on animal cruelty cases.
• Contribute to ongoing changes in forensic protocols and procedures at the ASPCA Animal Hospital.
• Participate in presenting case status at weekly Animal Health and Welfare meetings.
• Represent the forensic team during tours and to media as requested.
• Maintain strict confidentiality about criminal cases.

Teaching and Training

• Collaborate with forensic team members on casework, research, and teaching and training initiatives.
• Support development and oversight of veterinary forensic externships (national and international students) and internship programs.
• Train and mentor veterinarians and support staff involved in cruelty investigations.
• Develop and deliver training for law enforcement, veterinarians, attorneys, and students.
• May serve as an instructor or co‑instructor for academic courses related to veterinary forensic science.

Qualifications

• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Organized and detail‑oriented, with ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast‑paced environment.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Interest or experience with animal cruelty cases (neglect, abuse, fighting, hoarding).
• Experience or training in forensic necropsy and/or clinical forensic examinations.
• Familiarity with evidence handling and basic forensic principles.
• Experience with law enforcement, regulatory agencies, or legal teams is a plus.
• Interest in teaching, training, or mentoring others.
• Courtroom testimony experience is a plus.
• Research experience is a plus.
• Membership in veterinary or forensic professional organizations is a plus.
• Ability to exemplify ASPCA’s core values and behavioral competencies.

Education and Work Experience

• DVM or VMD (required).
• 3+ years practice in veterinary medicine required.
• Strong interest in prosecution of animal abuse and neglect cases.
• Experience in animal cruelty investigations is a plus.
• Formal training in Veterinary Forensic Medicine preferred or interest in pursuing it.

Additional Information

• Eligibility for licensure in New York State as a veterinarian required; current licensure strongly preferred.

Language

English (Required)

Equal Employment Opportunity Policy

The ASPCA is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, sex, national origin, ancestry, gender, gender identity or expression, age, marital or domestic partner status, citizenship status, sexual orientation, disability, genetic information, military or veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable laws and regulations. Applicants with disabilities may be entitled to reasonable accommodation under the Americans with Disabilities Act. If you require an accommodation to complete our application process, please inform the People Team.

Employee Rights Under the Family and Medical Leave Act

Pursuant to regulations of the Family and Medical Leave Act, we provide this notice to applicants about eligible employees’ protected leave for certain reasons.

Applicants that are Residents of Colorado and Oregon

Per CO Senate Bill 23‑058 and ORS 659A.030, we may not require age‑related information on the initial application.

Indiana Applicants

Per Indiana law, it is unlawful to discriminate based on veteran status.

Massachusetts Applicants

Per Massachusetts law, it is unlawful to require a lie‑detector test as a condition of employment.

Philadelphia Applicants

You may view your rights under the Fair Criminal Record Screening Standards Act.