Lead and develop veterinary teams as an Area Chief of Staff Veterinarian in San Diego, CA, with pay up to $226,000. This full-time, hospital-based leadership role blends hands-on medicine with multi-site mentorship and clinical quality leadership.
The Hospital
This is a well-supported general practice environment located within a popular pet retail setting, offering convenient foot traffic and free on-site parking. The hospital provides preventive and routine outpatient care, same-day diagnostics, and general surgery and dentistry, all supported by a collaborative team of veterinarians, credentialed technicians, and client service professionals. Standardized protocols and predictable workflows support efficient, high-quality medicine.
- In-clinic imaging (digital radiography and dental radiography)
- On-site laboratory diagnostics for same-day results
- General soft-tissue surgery and dental procedures
- In-house pharmacy for timely dispensing
- Curbside and drop-off options that streamline busy days
- Daytime schedule with some weekend availability typical for the site
Location
San Diego offers an outstanding balance of career growth and lifestyle. Beaches, hiking trails, and a vibrant cultural scene are minutes away, with easy air travel and a strong regional economy anchored by research and innovation.
- Year-round mild coastal climate ideal for outdoor living and work-life balance
- Beaches and bays close by, including La Jolla, Coronado, Mission Bay, and Torrey Pines
- Balboa Park with museums, gardens, and performing arts, plus the San Diego Zoo and USS Midway
- Thriving biotech, life-sciences, defense, and tech sectors anchored by UC San Diego
- Dynamic food and craft-beer scene in neighborhoods like Little Italy, North Park, and La Jolla
- San Diego International Airport near downtown and convenient cross-border travel options
- Signature events and conventions, including Comic-Con
- Sports and entertainment at Petco Park and a lively downtown
Benefits
- Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage
- 401(k) with company match
- Paid time off and paid holidays
- Continuing education allowance with dedicated CE days
- State licensure and DEA fees covered
- Professional liability coverage
- Parental leave and family-form benefits
- Mental health and wellness resources
- Uniform/scrub allowance
- Employee pet care discounts
- Relocation assistance available
- Production-based bonus plan
- Career development pathways and leadership training
The Role
- Lead and inspire a group of general practice hospitals in the San Diego area, elevating medical quality, client experience, and team engagement
- Serve as a working manager: split time between clinical practice and leadership responsibilities in hospital settings
- Recruit, onboard, coach, and develop veterinarians; ensure supportive mentorship for new graduates and recent hires
- Uphold medical standards through chart reviews, quality assignments, audits, and patient safety event reviews
- Partner with practice managers to guide hospital operations, staffing, workflow, and performance metrics
- Ensure regulatory compliance, including controlled substance management and radiation safety
- Maintain a strong client experience, including timely resolution of concerns and clear communication
- Oversee medical equipment needs and inventory requests across assigned hospitals
- Support student externs and candidates during in-hospital experiences
- Schedule includes daytime hours with a shared weekend rotation
Requirements
- DVM or VMD degree from an accredited institution
- Active California veterinary license (or ability to obtain prior to start)
- DEA registration (or eligibility to obtain)
- Eligibility to work in the United States
- Proven proficiency in general practice, including routine soft-tissue surgery and dentistry
- Comfort with digital radiography and dental radiography
- Prior leadership or lead-doctor experience strongly preferred; mentorship mindset essential
- Strong communication, organization, and problem-solving skills
- Willingness to travel locally between assigned hospitals and work some weekends
How to Apply
Interested in leading with purpose in a city known for its coastal lifestyle and innovation? Click apply and a member of the team will be in touch shortly.