Veterinary Medical Director, Specialty & Emergency

VCA Seaside Animal Hospital; Hickory (NC); On-site; USD 180,000 - 275,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical insurance

Dental insurance

Vision insurance

Life insurance

401(k) with company match

CE allowance with paid CE time

Paid parental leave

Generous PTO

Sign-on bonus

Job summary

Carolina Animal Specialty and Emergency Hospital in Hickory, NC seeks an accomplished Medical Director to lead clinical excellence across our growing specialty and emergency services.

Ideal candidates are board-certified specialists or residency-trained veterinarians with leadership experience, able to mentor staff, set medical standards, and drive strategic growth while maintaining an active clinical role.

Qualifications

• DVM or equivalent veterinary degree required.
• Board-certified or residency-trained in a veterinary specialty with leadership potential preferred.
• Active NC veterinary license or eligibility to licensure.
• Commitment to evidence-based medicine and client communication.

Responsibilities

• Provide medical leadership and oversight across emergency and specialty services.
• Establish and uphold medical standards, protocols, and best practices.
• Mentor veterinarians, interns, and support staff.
• Partner with hospital administration on strategic planning, recruiting and growth.
• Maintain an active clinical caseload aligned with your expertise.
• Foster a positive, collaborative, high‑performing hospital culture.

Skills

Leadership experience

Board-certified in vet med

Mentoring

Communication skills

Education

DVM or equivalent veterinary degree

Job description

Carolina Animal Specialty and Emergency Hospital in Hickory, NC seeks an accomplished Medical Director to lead clinical excellence across our growing specialty and emergency services.

Ideal candidates are board-certified specialists or residency-trained veterinarians with leadership experience, able to mentor staff, set medical standards, and drive strategic growth while maintaining an active clinical role.