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.