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Veterinary Medical Director

J940356 El Cajon California USD180K - USD210K / Year

Lead a high-performing veterinary team as Medical Director in El Cajon, CA, with total compensation up to $210,000. This is a chance to shape clinical standards, mentor doctors, and elevate patient care in a respected small-animal hospital with strong support and modern diagnostics.

The Hospital
This established, AAHA-accredited, feline-friendly small-animal hospital is known for exceptional client feedback and a loyal community following. The practice blends general medicine with urgent care and advanced surgery, supported by efficient workflows and a collaborative, technician-forward culture. The facility is clean, well-organized, and equipped for same-day workups and comprehensive care.
- Broad service offering: wellness and preventive care, dentistry, urgent and emergency care, advanced surgery, and anesthesia
- In-house capabilities: digital radiography, ultrasound, in-house laboratory, and digital dental imaging, plus an on-site pharmacy
- Proven reputation: consistently strong online reviews and word-of-mouth referrals
- Supportive environment: mentorship-friendly culture, efficient doctor-to-technician support, and balanced scheduling

Location
Based in El Cajon, CA, this role offers the convenience of a suburban hub just east of San Diego with excellent access to transit, amenities, and outdoor recreation. Enjoy the best of both worlds: an engaged local community and fast connections to the broader metro area.
- Around 15 miles east of downtown San Diego with direct freeway access via I-8 and nearby SR-67 and SR-125
- Regional transit options from the El Cajon Transit Center with multiple trolley and bus connections
- Gillespie Field nearby for general aviation and an adjacent industrial park
- Mid-sized city of roughly 100k+ residents with a strong local workforce and customer base
- Close to Grossmont College and Cuyamaca College for talent pipelines and continuing education
- Everyday convenience with Parkway Plaza shopping, diverse dining, and essential services
- Community-centric downtown with regular events and seasonal parades
- Parks, recreation centers, and family-friendly amenities that support work-life balance

Benefits
- Production bonus with no negative accrual
- Monthly Medical Director stipend
- Long-term incentive cash program based on production
- Transparent production metrics and operational support
- Generous CE allowance; paid state license, DEA, and professional dues
- Flexible scheduling with a strong focus on work-life balance
- Mentorship and leadership development resources
- Relocation assistance and sign-on bonuses available
- 401(k) with company match
- Medical, dental, and vision insurance
- Paid time off and paid holidays
- Paid parental leave options
- Short- and long-term disability and life insurance
- Professional liability coverage
- Employee assistance program and mental health resources
- Uniform and pet care discounts

The Role
- Serve as the clinical leader of the hospital, setting and upholding high medical standards and a culture of excellence
- Provide the majority of your time in hands-on clinical practice while guiding medical quality and protocols
- Mentor and coach associate veterinarians; support skill development in surgery, dentistry, diagnostics, and client communication
- Lead case reviews and quality-improvement initiatives; conduct regular doctor meetings to align standards and share insights
- Partner with the Practice Manager on scheduling, team utilization, workflow optimization, and performance goals
- Oversee appropriate use and maintenance of medical equipment; support safe, efficient, and compliant operations
- Ensure accurate, timely medical records and appropriate, compliant charging
- Manage regulatory responsibilities as required (e.g., controlled substances oversight, radiation safety compliance)
- Engage with the local community through education and outreach; support practice growth and client trust
- Collaborate on recruitment and onboarding of veterinary talent

Requirements
- DVM/VMD (or equivalent) and license to practice in California (active and in good standing)
- DEA registration and any applicable state-controlled substance credentials
- Eligibility to work in the United States
- Minimum 3-5 years of clinical experience; prior leadership or team lead experience preferred
- Strong clinical judgment, communication, and teamwork skills
- Commitment to high-quality medicine, client service, and a positive hospital culture

Apply Now
Ready to lead with purpose and practice at the top of your license? Click apply and one of our team will be in touch shortly.

Benefits

Competitive Salary, Sign on bonus, Production % bonus