Description
Chief of ER Services (Specialty ER Medical Leader)
VetMED Emergency & Specialty | Phoenix, AZ
VetMED is seeking a Chief of Emergency Services to help lead, grow, and elevate our emergency service. This is an opportunity for an experienced Criticalist who is ready to step into a leadership role while continuing to practice high-quality, advanced medicine.
We’re looking for someone who is passionate about improving patient outcomes, developing doctors, and building a strong, collaborative team culture.
About the Role
As Chief ER Doctor, you will serve as a key clinical leader within the hospital—partnering closely with the Medical Director and Director of Hospital Operations to oversee ER medical services while supporting and developing the ER DVM team.
This role is a blend of clinical practice and leadership, with the majority of time spent on the floor and dedicated administrative time to support team and hospital initiatives.
Why This Role
This is more than just a leadership title—this is a chance to shape the ER team, influence hospital culture, and drive medical excellence in a high-impact, high-growth environment.
What You’ll Do
Lead & Develop the ER Doctor Team
- Provide ongoing coaching, mentorship, and support to ER veterinarians
- Conduct formal and informal performance feedback, including evaluations and development plans
- Lead Quarterly review of staff DVM financial performance in collaboration with director team
- Provides opinions and collaborates with hospital managers, directors, and MD on DVM scheduling. Provides opinion on the number of DVMs required per
- shift, assist with managing relief labor etc.
- Foster a positive, accountable, and team-oriented culture
- Support recruiting, onboarding, and training of new doctors
Drive Medical Excellence
- Partner with the Medical Director and specialists to ensure high-quality, evidence-based medicine
- Maintain consistency in protocols, standards of care, and clinical decision-making
- Participate in peer review through chart audits, case reviews, and adverse event tracking
- Ensure the highest standards of emergency and critical care are consistently delivered
Collaborate Across Hospital Leadership
- Work closely with the DHO, MD, Charge Nurse, and leadership team to:
- Improve workflows and hospital efficiency
- Align communication and expectations across teams
- Identify opportunities for growth and improvement
- Lead regular leadership, DVM, and staff meetings
- Participates in the recruiting, selecting, orienting, and training of doctors along with the HR Generalist, Hospital Director, MD, and other members of the management team.
Stay Hands-On Clinically
- Practice as a Criticalist for much of a full-time schedule (90%)
- Balance clinical responsibilities with administrative leadership time
Support Client Experience
- Resolves client needs, concerns, and complaints along with the Hospital Director and Medical Director.
- Help guide the team in delivering compassionate, high-quality client interactions—even in high-stress situations
About VetMED
VetMED is a busy, multi-specialty emergency and referral hospital with a strong commitment to patient care, team development, and clinical excellence. We work alongside a collaborative group of specialists and experienced ER doctors, creating an environment where medicine and mentorship thrive.
What We’re Looking For
- DACVECC board certification or residency trained
- Arizona veterinary license (or eligibility) + DEA license
- Prior leadership or supervisory experience preferred
- Strong background in emergency and critical care (24-hour hospital experience)
- Strong communicator with the ability to lead clear, consistent, and compassionate conversations with both clients and team members
- Proven leadership skills, including coaching, accountability, and team development
- Ability to build trust and foster a collaborative, positive team environment
- Comfortable giving and receiving feedback, including navigating difficult conversations
- Ability to stay composed and lead effectively in high-pressure, fast-paced situations
- Strong organizational skills with the ability to balance clinical and administrative responsibilities
What We Offer
- Competitive compensation
- Sign-on bonus + relocation assistance
- CE stipend + dedicated CE time
- Full benefits package + 401k
- Opportunity for leadership growth and development
- The ability to make a meaningful impact on a growing ER service
Additional Details
- Opportunity to serve as Responsible Veterinarian (premise license)
- DEA license required for controlled substance oversight
- Must be able to lift up to 50 lbs and stand for extended periods
- Schedule includes a mix of clinical shifts, weekends, and holidays
To learn more, please apply online or submit your resume/CV to Lindsey Hays at LHays@ethosvet.com.
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Ethos Veterinary Health is at the forefront of innovation and world-class medicine. As the premier network of over 140 specialty and emergency hospitals across North America, Ethos brings together a dedicated community of more than 1,500 specialized doctors providing care for nearly 2 million pets annually. The integrated and collaborative network of veterinary professionals utilize state-of-the-art technology and a scientific, evidence-based approach to deliver compassionate, unparalleled care and rewarding careers. Committed to revolutionizing veterinary medicine, Ethos sets the standard in veterinary excellence. Discover more at EthosVet.com.
Ethos Veterinary Health offers a comprehensive benefits program including medical, dental, vision, a 401k with employer match, and paid time off (including sick time) for all eligible employees. The team can provide more information about compensation and benefits for your specific location during the process. For positions based in Colorado, EVH provides eligible employees with paid sick and safe leave and public health emergency leave in accordance with the requirements of Colorado's Healthy Families and Workplaces Act.
Ethos Veterinary Health is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, protected veteran or disabled status, or genetic information. Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, Los Angeles Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance, and any other state or local hiring regulations, we will consider for employment any qualified applicant, including those with arrest and conviction records, in a manner consistent with the applicable regulation.
Requirements
- DACVECC board certification or residency trained
- Arizona veterinary license (or eligibility) + DEA license
- Prior leadership or supervisory experience preferred
- Strong background in emergency and critical care (24-hour hospital experience)
- Strong communicator with the ability to lead clear, consistent, and compassionate conversations with both clients and team members
- Proven leadership skills, including coaching, accountability, and team development
- Ability to build trust and foster a collaborative, positive team environment
- Comfortable giving and receiving feedback, including navigating difficult conversations
- Ability to stay composed and lead effectively in high-pressure, fast-paced situations
- Strong organizational skills with the ability to balance clinical and administrative responsibilities
