Veterinarian - Division of Racing Events

About the role

The Colorado Division of Racing seeks a State Regulatory Veterinarian to ensure the safety, health, and fairness of the racing industry. This role involves leading a team, conducting pre-race inspections, and overseeing laboratory testing programs.

Responsibilities

• Conduct critical pre-race inspections to ensure every starter is fit to compete.
• Scratch horses for medical or safety concerns, prioritizing animal health.
• Provide expert medical care on the track and collaborate with CSU on industry research.
• Oversee the sophisticated laboratory testing program, including urine, blood, and hair collection.
• Collaborate with the State Veterinarian and Department of Agriculture to monitor and control communicable equine diseases.
• Mentor and manage the Test Barn staff, ensuring a high-functioning, secure environment.
• Draft and enforce rules and guidelines governing medication usage and veterinary practices under the Colorado Racing Act.
• Represent the Division’s expertise in administrative hearings and legal proceedings.

Requirements

• Licensed to practice veterinary medicine in Colorado or hold a current license in another jurisdiction with the ability to obtain Colorado licensure within 30 days of offer.
• Advanced knowledge of equine and large-animal medicine, with a focus on racehorses or elite high-performance sporthorses.
• Proven ability to interpret and apply complex state statutes to ensure compliance with veterinary ethics and administrative policy.
• Outstanding clinical decision-making skills, especially under pressure.
• A deep-seated commitment to animal welfare, evidenced by a career-long dedication to the ethical treatment of equine athletes.
• Sophisticated interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to testify as a subject matter expert.

Qualifications

• Education and Experience: Licensed to practice veterinary medicine in the State of Colorado or hold a current license in another jurisdiction with the ability to obtain Colorado licensure within 30 days of offer.
• Necessary Special Requirements: Must possess and maintain a valid Colorado Driver's License and be willing to work nights, weekends, holidays.
• Preferred Qualifications: Advanced knowledge of equine and large-animal medicine, proven ability to interpret and apply complex state statutes, outstanding clinical decision-making skills, and a deep-seated commitment to animal welfare.

Skills

• Leadership and mentorship skills.
• Expertise in equine and large-animal medicine.
• Ability to interpret and apply complex state statutes.
• Outstanding clinical decision-making skills.
• Interpersonal and communication skills.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and benefits package.
• Dynamic and supportive team environment.
• Opportunity to serve as the state's primary advocate for animal welfare.
• Fast-paced and challenging work environment.

Pay

Competitive salary and benefits package.

Schedule

This is an exempt, onsite position where you will balance your time between the Division of Racing office at 1707 Cole Blvd. Suite 300, Lakewood, CO 80401 and the Division's Arapahoe Park and off-track facility located at 26000 E. Quincy Ave, Aurora, CO 80016.

Class Code & Classification Description

C9B1XX VETERINARIAN I

Conditions of Employment

• Employees must file all necessary Colorado Individual Income Tax (CIIT) returns and pay tax obligations.
• Employees must undergo a pre-employment evaluation of their tax records/accounts to ensure compliance with this policy.
• Final candidates must complete a successful background investigation and reference check prior to appointment.
• Certain positions based on duties may require scheduled background investigations.

Supplemental Information

• Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Compliance: The State of Colorado is committed to creating a workplace that values and respects all Coloradans through a commitment to equal opportunity and hiring based on merit and fitness.
• Equal Opportunity Employer: The State of Colorado is an equal opportunity employer committed to building inclusive, innovative work environments with employees who reflect our communities and enthusiastically serve them.