Medical Director DVM, VMD

VCA Animal Hospitals•Chicago, IL

5d•$140,000 - $160,000•Onsite

About The Position

VCA Animal Care Center of Chicago is seeking a Medical Director to lead medical quality, clinical standards, and the future direction of the hospital while continuing to practice veterinary medicine. The role is supported by hospital operations, marketing, Human Resources, payroll, and other administrative functions, and works with a collaborative team of veterinarians, credentialed technicians, veterinary assistants, and client service representatives. The hospital is a general practice focused on wellness, preventive care, diagnostics, and comprehensive services for dogs and cats. It also treats small mammals and other exotic species, with a doctor who has expertise in those patients. An outside board-certified cardiologist provides in-house cardiac evaluations and echocardiograms. The hospital uses hands-free radiology and anticipates offering full abdominal ultrasonography. Fear Free and low-stress handling techniques are part of daily practice, with a goal of becoming fully Fear Free certified. The Medical Director will guide medical standards, support clinical decision-making, encourage ongoing learning, develop team members, and help deliver thoughtful, high-quality care. The hospital prioritizes client education, transparent treatment recommendations, and relationships based on trust. The position typically follows a flexible four-day workweek, Monday through Saturday, comprising two 8-hour shifts (generally 8 AM–4 PM) and two 12-hour shifts (generally 8 AM–8 PM). There is typically one dedicated 8-hour surgery day per week. Saturdays rotate among doctors, with each doctor generally working one to two Saturdays per month. There are no on-call hours. Schedule and clinical responsibilities can be discussed with the hospital team. The salary range is $140,000–$160,000, negotiable based on experience and other relevant credentials. The position includes a $12,000 Medical Director stipend paid biweekly and eligibility for an annual Medical Director bonus of $10,000–$15,000. A $75,000 signing bonus is offered to an Medical Director able to join in 2026. Sign-on, relocation, and longevity bonuses may be available, and the role may be eligible for additional variable pay programs.

Requirements

Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) degree from an accredited university or equivalent.
Licensure in good standing to practice in Illinois, or the ability to obtain licensure.
Commitment to practicing the highest standard of medicine and upholding the veterinary code of ethics.
Strong communication and collaboration skills.
Interest in supporting team development and clinical excellence.

Responsibilities

Practice veterinary medicine while helping establish the hospital’s medical direction, clinical standards, and quality of care.
Guide medical standards and support clinical decision-making across the hospital.
Mentor colleagues, develop team members, and encourage continued learning.
Help the team provide thoughtful, high-quality care across a diverse caseload.
Build strong relationships with clients and Associates through trust, communication, and respect.
Support accountability, collaboration, and a positive environment where the team can succeed.

Benefits

$75,000 signing bonus for a Medical Director able to join in 2026.
Medical Director stipend of $12,000, paid biweekly.
Eligibility for a Medical Director annual bonus of $10,000–$15,000.
Sign-on, relocation, and longevity bonuses may be available.
Potential eligibility for additional variable pay programs.
Health, dental, and vision insurance, including infertility and gender affirmation benefits.
401(k) retirement savings plan with company match.
Paid parental, vacation, and sick leave.
Continuing Education allowance and paid Continuing Education days.
Access to WOOF University continuing education, clinical studies, professional resources, clinical collaboration, and leadership development.
Associate health and well-being resources, including Headspace, Fidelity financial wellness tools, and additional mental health resources.
Competitive compensation, comprehensive benefits, and employee pet discounts.