Step into a leadership role with real impact as an Area Chief of Staff Veterinarian in Lakewood, CO, with compensation up to $198,000. Guide a dedicated team, elevate standards of care, and grow your career in a supportive, well-equipped practice.
The Hospital
This AAHA-accredited, small-animal hospital blends strong clinical standards with a friendly, client-focused atmosphere. The team-based model brings veterinarians, registered veterinary technicians, and skilled support staff together for efficient, high-quality care. On-site diagnostics include digital radiography, dental digital x-ray, and an in-house laboratory, supported by both in-house and online pharmacy options. The location offers convenient weekday daytime hours with shorter Saturdays, streamlined curbside/drop-off services, and access to language interpretation to ensure clear communication with clients. Situated inside a retail pet store for added convenience, the practice emphasizes mentorship, professional development, and a collaborative culture.
Location
Lakewood, CO, combines the amenities of metro Denver with an easygoing, outdoor-forward lifestyle. Minutes to downtown and even closer to the foothills, it is an ideal base for professionals who want city access and mountain recreation.
- Gateway to the Rockies: quick access to hiking, biking, and water activities at Bear Creek Lake Park and nearby trail systems
- RTD W Line light-rail service for easy commuting into Denver and across the region
- Belmar district serves as Lakewood’s lively “downtown,” with restaurants, shopping, events, and year-round activities
- Major retail hubs like Colorado Mills and Denver West for everyday convenience
- Strong arts scene via the Lakewood Cultural Center and historic attractions at Heritage Lakewood
- Local healthcare anchors, including notable hospitals and clinics, support families and professionals
- Higher-education presence (community college and university campuses) fosters a strong local talent pipeline
Benefits
- Eligibility for production-based incentive pay
- Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage
- 401(k) with employer contribution
- Paid time off and paid holidays
- Continuing education allowance with dedicated CE days
- Reimbursement for professional licensure and DEA
- Professional liability coverage
- Short- and long-term disability and life insurance
- Employee assistance program and mental health support
- Flexible scheduling within hospital hours
- Discounted pet care
The Role
- Full-time leadership and clinical position, typically balancing approximately 20-30 percent leadership with 70-80 percent clinical duties
- Lead medical quality, client service, and operational efficiency in partnership with practice management
- Mentor, coach, and develop veterinarians and support teams; facilitate onboarding and ongoing training
- Oversee scheduling to meet client demand while supporting team well-being and CE planning
- Guide clinical decision-making, perform thorough diagnostics, develop treatment plans, and communicate clearly with clients
- Perform general surgery and dentistry; support safe anesthesia, monitoring, and recovery protocols
- Ensure appropriate medical recordkeeping and adherence to hospital protocols and regulatory standards
- Foster a positive, inclusive, and collaborative culture; lead regular team meetings and quality-improvement initiatives
- Provide occasional leadership support to nearby sites as needed
Requirements
- DVM or VMD degree from an accredited institution
- Active Colorado veterinary license (or eligibility to obtain)
- DEA registration (or eligibility to obtain)
- Authorization to work in the United States
- Solid foundation in general practice, surgery, and dentistry; prior leadership experience strongly preferred
- Strong communication, organization, and team-development skills
- Commitment to AAHA-level standards of care and a preventive-care mindset
Apply
Interested in leading a high-performing team in one of metro Denver’s most desirable locations? Click apply, and a member of our team will be in touch shortly.