Urgent & Emergency Veterinarian

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

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. 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

DEA Registration or the ability to obtain upon hire

Three years of shelter medicine experience

One year of high‑quality high‑volume spay‑neuter experience

Two years of clinical private practice experience

You’re more than a skilled shelter veterinarian, a leader, a problem‑solver, and an advocate for shelter animals. Shelter medicine expertise: Proven knowledge of high‑volume spay‑neuter, preventive health, and treatment of common shelter diseases

Customer and community focus: 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

Experience guiding veterinary and support teams, setting clear standards, and fostering professional growth

Ability to recognize and manage stress‑related or abnormal animal behavior using best‑practice interventions

Capacity to balance immediate medical needs with long‑term program planning and continuous improvement

Location: Wake County Animal Control Raleigh, NC 27602

Work Schedule: Monday – Friday

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.

Emergency Service Worker Statement

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.

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