Emergency Veterinarian - Chapel Hill, NC

Overview

ABOUT VEG

In 2014, VEG was born with a mission to help people and their pets when they need it most. VEG has expanded rapidly, with hospitals nationwide open 24/7, 365 days a year, and a focus on delivering a better emergency experience for people, their pets, and the teams who work here—our VEGgies.

At VEG we support the career you want in veterinary emergency medicine, transforming how ER works—from open-concept hospitals to a customer-focused experience that helps people and their pets receive care.

This also means creating the greatest experience possible for our VEGgies, with opportunities for learning and mentorship so you can grow where you want to go in your career, and making an impact through your work.

VEG is a 2025 and 2026 certified Great Place to Work®.

The Job

As an Emergency Veterinarian, you’re passionate about helping people and their pets and you thrive when they need you most. At VEG, you’ll be supported to be the best, most confident ER professional possible and to grow in unexpected directions. You’ll work in a culture rooted in mentorship and continuous learning—from on-the-floor guidance to VEG Education programs and unlimited ER-focused CE. You’ll handle emergencies ranging from routine cases to complex surgeries, treating every kind of pet, including exotics. As a hospital-floor leader, you’ll be empowered to deliver outstanding service backed by a team and resources that enable you to advance your career.

Responsibilities

• Answer medical questions over the phone
• See patients promptly as part of the VEG Triage and VEG Spikes, ensuring people see a doctor quickly and families can stay with their pets
• Gather signalment, presenting complaint, vitals, and physical exam information
• Conduct physical examinations and other necessary diagnostic procedures such as ultrasounds, X-rays, bloodwork, and biopsies
• Develop a diagnostic and therapeutic plan based on findings
• Communicate diagnosis and treatment options directly with customers
• Prepare and present estimates to customers
• Create and review medical records for accuracy
• Explain the value of tests and treatments and address customer concerns
• Perform minor and major emergency surgeries
• Perform endoscopic procedures
• Educate customers on aftercare and preventative measures

Qualifications

• A DVM or equivalent degree
• Live and breathe emergency medicine, including emergency surgery (soft tissue) and endoscopy
• Thrives in team-oriented environments
• Ability to stand for prolonged periods, kneel, work on the floor, and lift up to 25 kg (up to 40 kg with assistance)
• Willingness to work in a noisy environment with strong odors
• Availability to work nights, weekends, and holidays on a rotating or as-needed basis
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment with people from diverse backgrounds

Who You Are

• Empathetic with a people-centric approach
• Humility; willing to acknowledge mistakes, share credit, and lift up teammates
• Ownership mindset and commitment to achieving long-term results
• Curious by nature; asks insightful questions and seeks to learn and grow

Benefits & Investment in You

• Competitive compensation, including base and 401K match
• Comprehensive health and wellness benefits starting on day one, including QPR training and access to free therapy or counseling
• Potential eligibility for equity after one year of full-time employment
• Strong emphasis on learning and growth, including VEG-created clinical and leadership programs and unlimited ER CE; travel stipend available (full-time credentialed VEGgies: $2,500/year; full-time uncredentialed VEGgies: $1,000/year)
• Clinical student loan repayment
• Paid parental leave (up to 10 weeks, 100% salary) and inclusive fertility/family-building care
• Flexible work schedules
• Generous employee referral program
• Perks like scrubs, VEG swag, and stocked meals

DEI

At VEG, diversity is a strength that fuels innovation and kindness. Our mission is “Helping people and their pets when they need it most.” VEGgies feel valued, respected, and empowered to bring their authentic selves to work. We’re committed to creating an environment that reflects diverse communities and welcomes diverse perspectives. We focus on equitable opportunities for growth and inclusive decision-making to ensure everyone’s perspective is considered, contributing to VEG’s goal of being the world’s veterinary emergency company.