The City of Cleveland is seeking a dedicated and compassionate Veterinarian. This position will oversee all aspects of animal care, including testing, records, surgical procedures, health checks and spay and neuter.

The position is ideal for a licensed Veterinarian seeking a mission-driven career and consistent work schedule, who is passionate about animal welfare, community health, and public service. The incumbent will play a vital leadership role in reducing pet overpopulation, improving shelter animal outcomes, and advancing the City’s humane animal care mission.

The Veterinarian will enjoy CLE Total Rewards benefits; including the potential for student loan forgiveness, work-life balance, competitive healthcare premiums, and one of the largest public employee retirement systems in the country.

Under administrative direction of the Chief Animal Control Officer and Shelter Manager, oversees the operation of the medical treatment of animals at the City Kennel and Animal Clinic. Performs animal surgeries and administers medication. Observes quarantined animals for signs of contagious disease. Prepares samples to be sent for diagnostic testing of suspected contagious disease. Performs euthanasia on animals, as necessary. Orders required medical supplies and oversees office record-keeping practices. Checks on animals in City kennels. Advises Chief Animal Control Officer and Shelter Manager on animal health conditions related to the City kennels. Performs other job-related duties as required.
Valid Ohio Veterinarian License and a valid State of Ohio Driver's License are required.

Key Responsibilities

Under the administrative direction of the Chief Animal Control Officer and Shelter Manager, the Veterinarian:

• Oversees the medical treatment and surgical operations for animals at the City Kennel and Animal Clinic
• Performs spay and neuter surgeries and other necessary veterinary surgical procedures
• Administers medications and provides medical care to shelter animals
• Monitors quarantined animals for signs of infectious or contagious disease
• Prepares medical samples for diagnostic testing when required
• Performs humane euthanasia in accordance with established protocols
• Orders medical supplies and oversees veterinary medical records and documentation
• Conducts regular health checks on animals housed in City kennels
• Advises leadership on animal health, disease prevention, and shelter medicine best practices
• Supports the City’s mission to promote public health, animal welfare, and responsible pet ownership
• Interfaces with diverse populations
• Coordinates animal care with other agencies.
• Performs other job-related duties as required

Qualifications

• Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree from an accredited veterinary school
• Valid Ohio Veterinarian License
• Valid State of Ohio Driver’s License
• Excellent oral, written and interpersonal communication skills

Preferred Qualifications

• Demonstrated ability to analyze and solve problems independently.
• Ability to prepare clear, concise reports and recommendations
• Ability to make data-driven, fiscally responsible and timely decisions
• Ability to effectively use office equipment and applications

Benefits

• Eligibility for Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF)- qualifying student loans may be forgiven after 10 years of eligible public service
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance
• Participation in the Ohio Public Employees Retirement System (OPERS) pension
• Participation in Ohio Deferred Compensation Plan
• Paid holidays, vacation, and sick leave
• On-site free parking
• Eligibility for credit union membership
• Work-life balance, and predictable work schedule
• Professional liability covered by the City- no separate liability policy required

Why Work for the City of Cleveland?

This rewarding role allows veterinarians to focus on community impact and connections, rather than production goals and client billing. The position offers a supportive engaging work culture, long-term stability, growth, and the opportunity to make a meaningful difference.

The Greater Cleveland area offers a small-city cost of living, including affordable housing, nationally ranked healthcare, vibrant arts and sports, state-recognized school districts, easy access to Lake Erie and one of the nation’s best park systems. Greater Cleveland is ideal for raising a family, networking with other rising professionals, or enjoying a rewarding second chapter without the high cost or congestion experienced in larger metropolitan areas. For a list of things to do in Cleveland visit: https://www.thisiscleveland.com/things-to-do/arts-entertainment/theater.

We are an equal opportunity employer. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, sex, national origin/ancestry, military status, disability, age and religion.

The City's guiding principles are as follows: Placing Clevelanders at the Center, Empowering Employees to Do Purposeful Work, Defining Clear and Pragmatic Objectives, Leading with Trust and Transparency, Striving for Equity in All We Do, and Embracing Change. All City employees are responsible for embracing and carrying out these principles in all that they do.