Director of Conservation Medicine at The Wilds

About the role

This role integrates veterinary medicine, population health, and conservation science to support The Wilds' mission and global conservation initiatives. Serves as a key member of the senior leadership team.

Responsibilities

• Direct diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing management of animal health across the collection

• Lead development and implementation of preventative medicine and herd health programs for diverse, large-scale wildlife populations

• Oversee veterinary hospital operations, pharmacy, and medical protocols

• Ensure emergency veterinary coverage and lead response to critical animal health situations

• Conduct and oversee necropsy procedures and disease investigations

• Develop and execute a strategic conservation medicine program aligned with The Wilds' mission and global conservation priorities

• Design, implement, and oversee applied conservation research programs in collaboration with Conservation Science staff

• Provide mentorship and oversight for veterinary residents, interns, and research participants

• Disseminate findings through publications, presentations, and professional engagement

• Identify and pursue funding opportunities, including grants and partnerships, to support research initiatives

• Lead disease surveillance, epidemiology, and biosecurity programs for multi-species, large-acreage environments

• Develop and implement quarantine and animal movement protocols to ensure regulatory compliance and population health

• Manage health risks associated with free-ranging and co-managed species groups

• Create an inclusive, high-performing team culture with clear communication and accountability

• Develop and manage departmental budgets, resources, and long-term planning initiatives

• Collaborate with Animal Management, Conservation Science, and other departments to support institutional goals

• Ensure appropriate staffing, training, and professional development

• Participate in organizational strategic planning and leadership decision-making

• Maintain compliance with all applicable laws, standards, and best practices, including USDA and AZA requirements

• Complete and coordinate veterinary care components of AZA, American Humane and ZAA accreditation applications

• Serve as Chair or lead representative for the Animal Care and Use Committee (ACUC)

• Maintain regulatory records and facilitate inspections and reporting

• Maintain strong professional relationships with regulatory agencies and inspectors

• Coordinate veterinary and research collaborations with universities, AZA institutions, and conservation organizations

• Coordinate with Animal Management and Conservation education & Engagement Departments to support veterinary components of guest programming

• Support organizational mission, sustainability efforts, and conservation priorities

• Support educational initiatives and contribute to training programs with academic partners

• Perform other related duties as assigned that align with the scope and responsibilities of this leadership role and support animal health, conservation, research, and operational priorities

Physical Demands

• Frequent standing, walking, bending, and lifting
• Work conducted in outdoor environments with exposure to extreme weather conditions
• Potential exposure to zoonotic diseases, anesthetic agents, and wildlife-related hazards
• Ability to lift and carry up to 50 lbs occasionally

Additional Notes

• This position operates in a large, open-range conservation environment requiring both clinical and field-based veterinary expertise
• Occasional travel, including conference attendance, fieldwork across property, and collaboration with partner institutions
• Role requires sound judgment, adaptability, and the ability to balance animal welfare, conservation goals, and operational priorities