Veterinary Criticalist - Veterinary Referral Center of Central Oregon : Job Details

We are a group of enthusiastic pet heroes who go beyond expectations at providing a personalized experience for all patient-guests and their parents. We currently provide dermatology, internal medicine, medical oncology, neurology, surgery, physical rehabilitation, ophthalmology, emergency, and urgent care services. Our quality of care and diverse specialty offerings makes VRCCO's team the leaders in advanced pet care for Central Oregon. To improve the experience for our patients and help support our amazing team, we have created a purpose built veterinary hospital campus, with over 26,000 sq. ft. to serve our community. This facility has all the advanced diagnostic and therapeutic capabilities (MRI, CT, Fluoroscopy, chemotherapy, etc). It also has a campus-like feeling for employees and clients with food trucks, childcare for staff, beer garden, and an upstairs balcony.

At the Veterinary Referral Center of Central Oregon, we believe that teamwork, superior patient and client care, education, and fun are the secret to a wonderful career. From day one we have known our staff has to come first to make this happen. We are pretty sure we are the first ever, and perhaps still the only, Veterinary Specialty Hospital to be Great Place To Work Certified ( Come see the difference for yourself and be a part of our team.

Job Summary:

The Criticalist will provide advanced, life-saving medical care to critically ill or injured patients, leveraging expertise in critical care and state-of-the-art technology, and anesthesia management. This role encompasses the receiving, stabilization and treatment of emergent medical conditions, interdisciplinary collaboration with other specialists, and the provision of educational leadership to veterinary staff, interns, residents, and the community. The Criticalist ensures the highest standard of care while fostering a team-centered, compassionate work environment that aligns with VRCCO's Core Values.

This position requires exceptional clinical knowledge, advanced problem-solving skills, and the ability to work under pressure while mentoring and coaching a team of veterinary professionals. The Criticalist will help lead the Emergency and Patient Care team in delivering extraordinary care to patients and providing support to their pet parents.

Essential Functions:

Clinical Leadership

• Act as the primary specialist for the assessment, diagnosis, and management of critically ill patients.
• Collaborate with peers and staff to create a great working environment where patient care, client experience, and staff development thrive.
• Serve as a mentor to veterinary interns, externs, and residents through direct education and case collaboration.
• Partner with Emergency and Specialty Departments to provide seamless patient care and ensure timely consultation on critical cases.
• Lead by example to uphold and promote VRCCO's Core Values, including Beyond Expectations, Compassion, Personalized Experience, One Team, and Education.
• Actively participate in employee reviews and team development with the Chief of Emergency, Chief of Patient Care, and Human Resources.

Clinical Operations

• Provide advanced medical and surgical care for critically ill or injured animals, including receiving and stabilizing emergency cases.
• Oversee and guide staff in the application of advanced diagnostic techniques, monitoring, and therapeutic interventions.
• Develop, implement, and refine critical care protocols to optimize patient outcomes and team effectiveness.
• Participate in daily rounds, ensuring a thorough handoff of patient care responsibilities and fostering interdisciplinary collaboration.
• Maintain accurate, detailed medical records in compliance with hospital policies and veterinary medical standards.
• Provide clear and timely communication to pet parents, referring veterinarians, and internal team members regarding patient status and care plans.

Educational Leadership

• Provide ongoing education and training for staff in all departments and services.
• Participate in in-house continuing education for technicians, assistants, and veterinarians.
• Guide interns and residents in developing diagnostic and treatment plans for complex cases.
• Provide ongoing education to the general community and veterinary community.

Operational Management

• Ensure all heroes adhere to safety policies and Standard Operating Procedures.
• Assist in onboarding and training new team members to ensure consistent knowledge and skill development.
• Foster a collaborative and supportive work environment to enhance team morale and effectiveness.
• Partner with leadership to set and achieve departmental goals, regularly assessing progress.

Education & Experience:

• Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) or equivalent degree from an accredited university or college.
• Diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care (DACVECC) or eligible for board certification.
• Minimum 2 years of clinical experience in a multi-specialty and emergency hospital preferred.
• Demonstrated expertise in advanced diagnostic, therapeutic, and surgical procedures relevant to critical care medicine.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Extensive knowledge of emergency and critical care medicine.
• Ability to work effectively in high-stress, fast-paced environments while maintaining attention to detail.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills to foster relationships with clients and team members.
• Leadership skills to inspire, coach, and develop the Critical Care team.
• Advanced decision-making and problem-solving capabilities.
• Commitment to continuous improvement in clinical practice and team processes.

Physical Demands:

• Lift and carry approximately 40 lbs; team-lift and carry up to 150 lbs.
• Sit, stand, stoop, bend, and walk intermittently during the day on hard floor surfaces.
• Work extended periods with arms extended, requiring manual dexterity.
• Tolerate exposure to animal sounds, bodily fluids, and open wound management.
• Wear protective gear such as gloves, gowns, masks, and goggles as required.
• The above duties are not an exhaustive list.

EEO Statement:

VRCCO believes that a diverse and inclusive workforce is essential to our One Team success. All employment decisions are based on merit, experience, ability, performance, and business needs.

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