Lead Veterinarian
Athens Area Humane Society
Job Description
Position OverviewReporting to the CEO, this role is a dual clinical and administrative role, comprising an average of 90% clinic and 10% administration. The Lead DVM is responsible for SOP development and evaluation, annual clinic budget review, and accountability of overall clinic performance.
Essential Functions
• Provide the DEA License for use in the Clinic
• Provide humane care and safe surgeries of public animals
• Perform 15-50 surgical procedures daily, including HQHVSN with minimal complications
• Supervise handling and recording of controlled substances by DVM or LVT
• Provide medical oversight of the clinic, including evaluation of medical, surgical, and disease control protocols
• Administer medications, anesthesia drugs, and prepare animals for surgery in accordance with GA Code Title 43, Chapter 50 (Georgia Veterinary Practice Act)
• Participate in hiring clinic staff with the Clinic Manager and/or CEO, if/when required
• Conduct annual performance reviews for direct reports
• Train program participants and any other designated persons in all aspects of patient care and efficient/safe clinic practices, maintaining a professional and friendly manner
• Serve as “team lead”, acting as a motivating force for all staff members
• Communicate updates regarding the clinic’s disease control protocols, surgical protocols, or other medical issues at regular medical staff and/or DVM meetings
• Ensure clinic staff adheres to proper pre-, peri- and post-operative care of patients
• Primary contact/liaison for clinic-associated training programs (e.g., Athens Technical College and UGA College of Veterinary Medicine) and inquiries from external DVMs
• Coordinate with Staff Veterinarian to conduct daily in-house and foster pet rounds and advise on care/treatment plans for chronic and acute ailments and/or medical cases
• Maintain strict confidentiality on client, patient, and donor information
• Attend training/conferences when required
• Other duties as assigned
Experience
• Must be a licensed Veterinarian in the state of Georgia
• Must maintain all current and correct licensure, including DEA license
• At least 3 years of experience as a DVM in shelter medicine/whole population health management, infectious disease control, and HVHQSN techniques
• Diverse surgery and medical evaluation skills for urgent care cases, such as pyometras, leg amputations, foreign body surgeries, etc.
Potential and Prolonged Exposures
• Prolonged exposure to various aqueous solutions including but not limited to dish soap, chlorhexidine, and spectra soap
• Prolonged exposure to isopropanol, hydrogen peroxide
• Potential exposure to formalin solution
• Potential/Prolonged exposure to isoflurane gas
• Prolonged exposure to quaternary ammonium cleaners and bleach
• Prolonged exposure to pressurized steam
• Potential exposure to sharps, including needles and surgical blades
What We Offer
• Competitive salary commensurate with experience
• Consistent four-day workweek — no weekends, nights, or rotating on-call
• Generous paid time off and a comprehensive benefits package
• Collaborative, high-energy, supportive team culture focused on mission impact
• 401(k) with employer match
• Modern facility and talented, supportive tea
• Opportunity to make a big difference in the lives of thousands of animals each year
• Paid GVMA membership, licensure, and DEA license
• Annual CE allowance
• AAHS is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit – a reduction in your student loans is a possibility
• Employee discounts for pet health care
To Apply
Email cover letter and resume to Cheryl McCormick, CEO, at cheryl@athenshumanesociety.org
This is a full time job
Contact Information
Job Contact Details
Cheryl McCormick, Ph.D.
CEO
Closing Date: Monday, December 15, 2025
Posting Date:
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