Shelter Veterinarian

Shelter Veterinarian

Job Description

Class: Full Time – Exempt September 2026

Location: Merriam, KS

Salary Range: $90,000-$120,000

Reports to: Vet Clinic Manager

Great Plains SPCA located in Merriam, KS is the highest rated shelter in the Kansas City area that serves approximately 7,000 animals and 500,000 residents annually. We are a results driven organization built on resiliency, compassion, inclusion, and accountability.

• Are you ready for a job that keeps you on your toes, both mentally and physically?
• Are you looking for a job where "predictable" is a dirty word?
• Are you as consistent as a cat's unwavering demand for treats at 3 a. m.?
• Want to make a daily difference for community pets?

Position Summary The Shelter Veterinarian will provide first-class medical care to shelter animals that supports our mission to drive change in our community through innovative programs that promote adoption, outreach, and a better life for pets and the people that love them.

The role includes a surgical and general care caseload, as well as critical emergencies. The job offers a broad spectrum of animal care, procedures, and treatments in this fast-paced and rewarding environment.

Key Responsibilities & Competencies

• Practice Shelter veterinary medicine in a manner compliant with the State Veterinary Practice Act, Federal and/or State Controlled Substance laws, along with appropriate medical record documentation; ensure the team maintains complete medical records that meet practice quality control guidelines
• Provide professional, efficient, and exceptional service, including prescribing and administering preventive care for the wellness needs of pets as well as diagnosing and treating diseases and injuries of pets
• Ensure consistent, accurate and proactive diagnosis and treatment plans to staff and volunteers.
• Prescribe and administer drugs and vaccines as appropriate
• Perform surgery and dentals on pets as necessary, using standard medical instruments and equipment

• Promote the safety of pets, clients, and associates by ensuring the Shelter Medicine team utilizes safe restraining techniques, following standard practice guidelines, and maintaining clean, sterile and organized treatment areas, exam rooms and laboratory areas
• Demonstrate integrity and ethics in all actions and behaviors
• Address and resolve concerns arising from the medical care of a pet
• Maintain drug logs in accordance with DEA and DOA.
• Participate in all shelter duties as assigned, including daily animal handling, while embracing the organization's mission and commitment to compassionate care.
• Other shelter duties as assigned

Experience/Education Requirements

• Degree completion in Veterinary Medicine required
• Candidates must be licensed to practice veterinary medicine in the state of Kansas and be eligible for a DEA license.

• Dental procedures a plus; training available for candidates willing to learn.
• Strong Customer Service Skills

• Competent with computer functions and programs such as Internet and web-based programs, Microsoft Office, Excel, Clover, DaySmart and PetPoint

Additional Requirements

• Working Schedule: Sunday-Thursday or Tuesday-Saturday
• Flex may be needed for S/N Clinic Events
• Advanced internal and external customer service skills
• Ability to solve problems both medically and professionally
• Demonstrate ability to work within a team
• Willingness to coach and be coached about medical practices and procedures
• Excellent time management and communication skills are key to this role
• Self-starter and an independent problem solver, with the desire to be a team contributor
• On Call Support
• Rotating holiday coverage
• Possess a valid driver’s license
• Handle and restrain animals weighing up to 100lbs
• Lift 50lbs to waist height
• Frequent standing, walking, bending, lifting, stooping, carrying, and reaching

At Will Employment

There is no minimum period of employment guaranteed or implied by acceptance of an employment offer. It is the policy of Great Plains SPCA that employment is at will, which means that the employment is for no specific term and that employment may be terminated by the employee or Great Plains SPCA at any time without cause.

Great Plains is an equal opportunity employer. We do not discriminate against any employee or applicant because of race, color, sex, religion, age, national origin, disability, or for any basis protected by applicable federal, state, or local law. We assure you that your opportunity for employment with Great Plains SPCA depends solely on your qualifications.

Note: This position description is not intended to be all-inclusive. You may be required to perform other related duties within your skill set as negotiated and/or directed to meet the ongoing needs of your department and the organization.

Great Plains SPCA proudly has a live release rate of 98% as a part of the no-kill shelter movement.

GPSPCA is an engaging, mission‑driven workplace where our team and the animals we serve come first. We offer a competitive and comprehensive benefits package, including:

• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• Generous PTO, Days of Significance, and 9 paid holidays
• 100% employer‑covered mental health support
• Disability and life insurance
• 403(b) retirement plan
• Discounts on veterinary care, retail store items, and GPSPCA event tickets