Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education
Specialty Medical Director
Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education, Crystal Lake, Illinois, United States, 60012
At PetVet Care Centers, our mission is to improve the lives of animals and people—providing exceptional and compassionate care at every stage—for all the moments that matter.
Because life is better with pets.
We deliver the Ultimate Care Experience — every pet, every client, every time.
That starts with a Culture of Care that supports our team members as much as the pets and clients we serve.
With more than
420 locally led hospitals
and over
11,000 team members nationwide , we offer:
Local autonomy with national support
Career mobility and development opportunities
A collaborative, inclusive environment where your wellbeing comes first
You care for pets. We care for you.
Position Overview We are seeking a dedicated
Specialty Medical Director
to lead our team of specialists and emergency veterinarians. The Specialty Medical Director (SMD) is responsible for providing strong leadership for the hospital, managing and mentoring associate veterinarians, and assuring regulatory compliance relating to the practice of veterinary medicine. The SMD is also responsible for maintaining an environment of teamwork in which the highest quality veterinary medicine is delivered. In partnership with the hospital leadership team, the SMD holds shared responsibility for the financial health of the hospital, directing staff and the overall management of practice operations. The SMD also serves as a staff veterinarian in addition to the administrative and leadership duties of the SMD role. Effective SMDs demonstrate strong work and professional ethics, a positive attitude, and uphold a high standard of patient care. They are part of the foundation upon which successful veterinary practices are built and directly impact and influence hospital culture and morale.
Formerly known as Animal Emergency of McHenry County and renamed in 2013,
Companion Animal Specialty & Emergency Hospital
(CASE) has proudly provided exceptional medical care and personalized service to companion animals since 1997. We remain the only 24/7 specialty, referral, and emergency hospital in the greater McHenry County region, allowing for a diverse caseload.
In addition to our long-trusted and established emergency care, CASE offers internal medicine, and rehab-certified veterinarians to provide a comprehensive, collaborative approach to care for both inpatients and outpatients. We use state-of-the-art diagnostic modalities and therapeutic procedures including on‑site CT imaging.
An ideal candidate will be
Residency Trained or Board-Certified
in Emergency and Critical Care, Small Animal Surgery, or Small Animal Internal Medicine, and will add their own dynamic abilities and personality to our dedicated & expert staff. Leadership experience is preferred but not required.
This position offers an opportunity for:
A high-earning potential with additional Medical Director compensation
No Deficit Production Plan
Relocation assistance for an Individual or Entire Family
Generous Signing and Commitment Bonus packages!
Crystal Lake is located 50 miles northwest of Chicago, Illinois. You will truly enjoy all of the amenities Crystal Lake has to offer as a modern city of over 40,000, but with a special small‑town charm. Living in Crystal Lake is an experience of its own, with its unique charm and friendly community.
Ready to take the next step? Apply today! For questions or to connect directly, please email your resume to Emily Lunsford at elunsford@petvetcarecenters.com.
Key Responsibilities
Maintaining a high quality of progressive veterinary care
Oversees and gives directives regarding medical standards and quality of care
Sets policies as they pertain to the practice of medicine
Works toward making various services work as one team
In conjunction with appropriate leadership team members, recommends additions to the hospital inventory
Budgets for new equipment and provides a reasonable cost estimate and return on investment
Sees patients and handles clinical practice
Ensures positive communication with clients and between doctors, including the proper transfer of patient care responsibilities
Reviews patient records for completeness and accuracy and uses them to promote medical excellence
Appropriately manages controlled drugs
Reviews and approves requests for alternatives to additional drugs and medical supplies
Conducts regular doctor meetings
Performs other duties as assigned by Manager
Handles patient care problems, client complaints, and referral partner issues
Manages veterinary, client, and board complaints and recommends resolutions
Develops medical policies
Assists in ensuring practice compliance with the State Veterinary Medical Practice Act, OSHA, and AAHA standards
Monitors DVM performance and production, provides coaching when appropriate
Serves as a mentor and role model for all staff veterinarians
Leads candidate interviews of potential DVMs
Identifies new service opportunities that do not currently exist in the hospital
Holds ownership for the revenue and success of the practice through monitoring key performance indicators and works with the Hospital Manager to make adjustments to achieve positive results
Helps identify and plan for upcoming challenges in maintaining hospital operations and possible temporary solutions (locum)
Qualifications (Required)
Veterinarian degree (DVM) from an accredited college or university
1‑year rotational internship in small animal medicine, surgery, ER (university or large referral practice)
Completed a 3‑year, AVMA approved specialty in a clinical specialty
Achieved board certification in the chosen specialty (ABVP, CCRP, and Acupuncture do not count as they don't require 3‑year residencies)
Current State Veterinary License
DEA registration must be obtained and maintained
Strong diagnostic and clinical skills
Excellent surgical and dental skills
Ability to work well in a team‑oriented environment
Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills
Commitment to providing compassionate and high‑quality veterinary care
Excellent Communication Skills and the ability to communicate effectively, efficiently, and in a timely manner with all members of the Medical and Hospital staff
Client communication skills, must be able to elicit information, establish rapport, offer explanations with pet owners
Display confidence and reassurance when dealing with pets experiencing severe stress, illness, or pain
May include some climbing, balancing, stooping, kneeling, crouching, or crawling
Some tasks involve the periodic performance of moderately physically demanding work
Position does require the ability to lift up to 50 pounds
Preferred Skills (Nice to Have)
3‑5 years of clinical experience post‑residency
Exceptional communication skills, both written and verbal
Excellent time‑management and delegation abilities
Exercises sound judgment and demonstrates exemplary decision‑making skills
Professionalism and courtesy in all interactions with others
Well‑developed interpersonal skills
What We Offer
Medical, dental, and vision insurance
Paid Parental Leave (birth, adoption, foster)
401(k) with discretionary contribution
Team Member Pet Discounts
Emotional wellbeing support — including Calm app access and 24/7 EAP
CE stipends and career development resources
Grant Circle — a relief fund for team members facing personal hardship
Local hospital culture backed by national resources
Pay Range $150,000 — $250,000 USD
At PetVet Care Centers, we're committed to a
Culture of Care
— for pets, for the people who love them, and for the team members who make it all possible. With
more than 420 hospitals across the U.S.
and a team of over
11,000 dedicated professionals , including
1700+ veterinarians , we offer a unique blend of local leadership and national support that helps our hospitals thrive.
Our model is built on
partnership, collaboration, and local medical autonomy , empowering each hospital to deliver high‑quality care while benefiting from shared resources and a strong professional community. Whether you're providing care in a hospital or supporting operations behind the scenes, PetVet is a place where you can grow your career, stay connected to your purpose, and make a meaningful impact.
You care for pets. We care for you.
PetVet is an equal opportunity employer. All employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, age, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, marital status, pregnancy, religion, citizenship, national origin/ancestry, physical/mental disabilities, military status or any other basis prohibited by law. EOE, M/F/D/V
PetVet respects your privacy and is committed to protecting your personal information. Please see our privacy notice for additional information about our data practices.
#J-18808-Ljbffr
Because life is better with pets.
We deliver the Ultimate Care Experience — every pet, every client, every time.
That starts with a Culture of Care that supports our team members as much as the pets and clients we serve.
With more than
420 locally led hospitals
and over
11,000 team members nationwide , we offer:
Local autonomy with national support
Career mobility and development opportunities
A collaborative, inclusive environment where your wellbeing comes first
You care for pets. We care for you.
Position Overview We are seeking a dedicated
Specialty Medical Director
to lead our team of specialists and emergency veterinarians. The Specialty Medical Director (SMD) is responsible for providing strong leadership for the hospital, managing and mentoring associate veterinarians, and assuring regulatory compliance relating to the practice of veterinary medicine. The SMD is also responsible for maintaining an environment of teamwork in which the highest quality veterinary medicine is delivered. In partnership with the hospital leadership team, the SMD holds shared responsibility for the financial health of the hospital, directing staff and the overall management of practice operations. The SMD also serves as a staff veterinarian in addition to the administrative and leadership duties of the SMD role. Effective SMDs demonstrate strong work and professional ethics, a positive attitude, and uphold a high standard of patient care. They are part of the foundation upon which successful veterinary practices are built and directly impact and influence hospital culture and morale.
Formerly known as Animal Emergency of McHenry County and renamed in 2013,
Companion Animal Specialty & Emergency Hospital
(CASE) has proudly provided exceptional medical care and personalized service to companion animals since 1997. We remain the only 24/7 specialty, referral, and emergency hospital in the greater McHenry County region, allowing for a diverse caseload.
In addition to our long-trusted and established emergency care, CASE offers internal medicine, and rehab-certified veterinarians to provide a comprehensive, collaborative approach to care for both inpatients and outpatients. We use state-of-the-art diagnostic modalities and therapeutic procedures including on‑site CT imaging.
An ideal candidate will be
Residency Trained or Board-Certified
in Emergency and Critical Care, Small Animal Surgery, or Small Animal Internal Medicine, and will add their own dynamic abilities and personality to our dedicated & expert staff. Leadership experience is preferred but not required.
This position offers an opportunity for:
A high-earning potential with additional Medical Director compensation
No Deficit Production Plan
Relocation assistance for an Individual or Entire Family
Generous Signing and Commitment Bonus packages!
Crystal Lake is located 50 miles northwest of Chicago, Illinois. You will truly enjoy all of the amenities Crystal Lake has to offer as a modern city of over 40,000, but with a special small‑town charm. Living in Crystal Lake is an experience of its own, with its unique charm and friendly community.
Ready to take the next step? Apply today! For questions or to connect directly, please email your resume to Emily Lunsford at elunsford@petvetcarecenters.com.
Key Responsibilities
Maintaining a high quality of progressive veterinary care
Oversees and gives directives regarding medical standards and quality of care
Sets policies as they pertain to the practice of medicine
Works toward making various services work as one team
In conjunction with appropriate leadership team members, recommends additions to the hospital inventory
Budgets for new equipment and provides a reasonable cost estimate and return on investment
Sees patients and handles clinical practice
Ensures positive communication with clients and between doctors, including the proper transfer of patient care responsibilities
Reviews patient records for completeness and accuracy and uses them to promote medical excellence
Appropriately manages controlled drugs
Reviews and approves requests for alternatives to additional drugs and medical supplies
Conducts regular doctor meetings
Performs other duties as assigned by Manager
Handles patient care problems, client complaints, and referral partner issues
Manages veterinary, client, and board complaints and recommends resolutions
Develops medical policies
Assists in ensuring practice compliance with the State Veterinary Medical Practice Act, OSHA, and AAHA standards
Monitors DVM performance and production, provides coaching when appropriate
Serves as a mentor and role model for all staff veterinarians
Leads candidate interviews of potential DVMs
Identifies new service opportunities that do not currently exist in the hospital
Holds ownership for the revenue and success of the practice through monitoring key performance indicators and works with the Hospital Manager to make adjustments to achieve positive results
Helps identify and plan for upcoming challenges in maintaining hospital operations and possible temporary solutions (locum)
Qualifications (Required)
Veterinarian degree (DVM) from an accredited college or university
1‑year rotational internship in small animal medicine, surgery, ER (university or large referral practice)
Completed a 3‑year, AVMA approved specialty in a clinical specialty
Achieved board certification in the chosen specialty (ABVP, CCRP, and Acupuncture do not count as they don't require 3‑year residencies)
Current State Veterinary License
DEA registration must be obtained and maintained
Strong diagnostic and clinical skills
Excellent surgical and dental skills
Ability to work well in a team‑oriented environment
Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills
Commitment to providing compassionate and high‑quality veterinary care
Excellent Communication Skills and the ability to communicate effectively, efficiently, and in a timely manner with all members of the Medical and Hospital staff
Client communication skills, must be able to elicit information, establish rapport, offer explanations with pet owners
Display confidence and reassurance when dealing with pets experiencing severe stress, illness, or pain
May include some climbing, balancing, stooping, kneeling, crouching, or crawling
Some tasks involve the periodic performance of moderately physically demanding work
Position does require the ability to lift up to 50 pounds
Preferred Skills (Nice to Have)
3‑5 years of clinical experience post‑residency
Exceptional communication skills, both written and verbal
Excellent time‑management and delegation abilities
Exercises sound judgment and demonstrates exemplary decision‑making skills
Professionalism and courtesy in all interactions with others
Well‑developed interpersonal skills
What We Offer
Medical, dental, and vision insurance
Paid Parental Leave (birth, adoption, foster)
401(k) with discretionary contribution
Team Member Pet Discounts
Emotional wellbeing support — including Calm app access and 24/7 EAP
CE stipends and career development resources
Grant Circle — a relief fund for team members facing personal hardship
Local hospital culture backed by national resources
Pay Range $150,000 — $250,000 USD
At PetVet Care Centers, we're committed to a
Culture of Care
— for pets, for the people who love them, and for the team members who make it all possible. With
more than 420 hospitals across the U.S.
and a team of over
11,000 dedicated professionals , including
1700+ veterinarians , we offer a unique blend of local leadership and national support that helps our hospitals thrive.
Our model is built on
partnership, collaboration, and local medical autonomy , empowering each hospital to deliver high‑quality care while benefiting from shared resources and a strong professional community. Whether you're providing care in a hospital or supporting operations behind the scenes, PetVet is a place where you can grow your career, stay connected to your purpose, and make a meaningful impact.
You care for pets. We care for you.
PetVet is an equal opportunity employer. All employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, age, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, marital status, pregnancy, religion, citizenship, national origin/ancestry, physical/mental disabilities, military status or any other basis prohibited by law. EOE, M/F/D/V
PetVet respects your privacy and is committed to protecting your personal information. Please see our privacy notice for additional information about our data practices.
#J-18808-Ljbffr