**Extended closing date and qualifications change**

The Academic Director of Veterinary Technology will be responsible for leading and directing strategic planning, administration, curriculum, outreach and coordination of the Veterinary Technology Programs, ensuring excellence in all aspects of program operation. This includes all regulatory agencies and accreditation authorities. This role also includes directing and leading special projects and initiatives assigned by the program’s dean. In addition, the Academic Director will be responsible for organizing and performing essential medical elements required for student success, including (but not limited to) routine surgeries (spays, neuters, dentals), assisting with diagnostics, sedation, and other clinical procedures that support student learning and skill development.

The work schedule for this position is flexible and may include working evenings and weekends. The tentative start date for this position is March 2026.

• Directs and oversees all activities within the Veterinary Technology department. Provides leadership in planning, coordinating, and evaluating programs, projects, processes, procedures, systems, standards, and service offerings to ensure high-quality outcomes for students, faculty, and community partners
• Leads the design, development, and continual improvement of programs and courses that address current and emerging industry needs and trends. Ensures alignment with the College’s mission and vision by providing academically sound instructional programs, innovative teaching methods, and comprehensive student support services that foster success
• Maintains full compliance with all CVTEA accreditation standards by actively managing and reporting required documentation. Oversees outcome and competency tracking, ensures timely submission of all reports, and communicates changes in administration, curriculum, organization, faculty, or program objectives. Coordinates site visits and prepares annual and biennial accreditation reports to maintain program accreditation in good standing
• Provides leadership, guidance, and mentorship to faculty and staff by supervising daily activities, prioritizing and assigning work, and conducting performance evaluations. Responsible for hiring, onboarding, training, and professional development. Makes recommendations regarding promotion, disciplinary action, and termination as necessary. Promotes a collaborative, student-centered team culture
• Utilizes community needs assessments, employer feedback, graduate outcomes, and industry data to make evidence-based decisions in curriculum design and program direction. Develops long-term curriculum roadmaps that ensure relevancy, quality, and alignment with industry expectations, while also preparing graduates for credentialing and career success
• Leads efforts to integrate Veterinary Technology education across multiple pathways, including workforce development, dual enrollment, credit-bearing courses, and non-credit continuing education opportunities. Ensures seamless alignment between programs to maximize student access and progression
• Ensures adherence to all applicable federal, state, and local laws, regulations, codes, and standards related to veterinary education, animal welfare, higher education, and institutional policies. Maintains accurate records and documentation to support compliance across all program functions
• Organizes and performs essential medical elements required for student success, including routine surgeries (spays, neuters, dentals), diagnostics, sedation, and other clinical procedures. Supports hands-on learning by ensuring students have access to appropriate cases, equipment, and faculty mentorship
• Performs other duties and responsibilities as assigned or directed by the Dean or College leadership, including participation in College committees, strategic initiatives, and community engagement activities that enhance the visibility and impact of the Veterinary Technology Program

• Doctorate in Veterinary Medicine and active license to practice veterinary medicine in the state of Arizona (or ability to obtain within 30 days of start date) and
• Five to eight years of veterinary clinical experience.

or

• An equivalent combination of certification, education and experience sufficient to successfully perform the essential duties of the job such as those listed above

This position is essential to the continuation of College business operations. All qualified applications will be considered, and candidates who possess a strong combination of education, certification, and professional experience are encouraged to apply, even if they do not meet every requirement exactly.

• Five to eight years of related experience

• Knowledge of project management principles, processes, and techniques, with the ability to plan, execute, and evaluate complex initiatives
• Knowledge of diverse instructional methodologies, including hybrid, online, didactic, and laboratory-based teaching
• Knowledge of accreditation standards, compliance requirements, and regulatory frameworks (CVTEA, federal, state, institutional)
• Skill in developing and managing budgets, resources, and departmental operations efficiently
• Skill in leadership, supervision, performance management, and professional development of faculty and staff
• Skill in fostering teamwork, collaboration, and inclusive work environments
• Ability to adapt to rapidly changing technical environments and integrate emerging technologies into program operations and curriculum
• Ability to analyze and interpret data, apply critical thinking, and prepare accurate, actionable reports
• Ability to communicate effectively in written and verbal formats with diverse audiences, including students, faculty, administrators, accrediting bodies, and external partners
• Ability to lead strategic initiatives, align program goals with institutional mission, and build strong partnerships with industry and community stakeholders

Physical Requirements:

Environment: Work is performed in a wide variety of settings, including standard office environments, laboratories, animal facilities, farms, ranches, shelters, and rescues across Southern Arizona. Responsibilities involve both on-campus and off-site instruction, requiring adaptability to dynamic and sometimes unpredictable environments. Work often involves direct interaction with students, staff, animals, and community partners, with frequent interruptions and changing priorities.

Physical: Primary functions require sufficient physical ability and mobility to work in both office and clinical/field settings. This includes remaining in a stationary position for extended periods, as well as moving about actively in barns, pastures, clinics, or outdoor environments. Must be able to lift, position, or transport light to moderate weights (up to 20 pounds regularly, and occasionally heavier with assistance), handle animals of varying sizes and temperaments, operate office and medical equipment, and travel frequently to off-site instructional locations using private and commercial transportation.

Vision: Ability to see in the normal visual range, with or without correction, to observe, evaluate, and demonstrate clinical skills and animal care procedures.

Hearing: Ability to hear in the normal audio range, with or without correction, to effectively communicate with students, colleagues, and community partners, and to monitor animals and equipment in clinical settings.