As a key member of the clinical team, the Senior Veterinarian will play a pivotal role in shaping and implementing a comprehensive medical program for Shedd Aquarium’s resident animals, manage clinical medical cases, collaborate with the Animal Care and Conservation Research teams, and represent the department throughout the organization and externally to partner organizations and the field.
Why Join Shedd Aquarium?
Work in a collaborative, supportive environment with a highly competent and dedicated team
Access to state-of-the-art hospital and research facilities
Engage in meaningful conservation and research projects
Be part of an organization with a prestigious legacy and unwavering commitment to advancing animal health research and conservation science
Shedd Aquarium’s Animal Health team is made up of a dedicated team of veterinarians, certified veterinary technicians, a zoological medicine resident, a hospital manager, and an operations manager. They strive to provide the best possible care and welfare for each of Shedd’s animal residents every day, to contribute meaningfully to health and conservation research, and to contribute to the education of future animal health professionals. The Animal Health team is part of the Animal Care and Science Division and works in the new Aquatic Science Labs and Animal Hospital, where professionals in animal health, water chemistry, and conservation science collaborate in a shared space, expanding their capacity to conduct applied science and amplify conservation efforts. The lab’s advanced capabilities also support critical training through the Illinois Zoological and Aquatic Animal Residency program (with the University of Illinois and Brookfield Zoo Chicago). Significant private funding supports Shedd’s conservation and research efforts. In addition, the Aquarium has articulated its ongoing commitment to diversity, equity, accessibility, and inclusion, fostering a welcoming and respectful culture for employees and guests.
The ideal candidate is a deeply experienced veterinarian who thrives in a team and is eager to support colleagues and help develop future animal health professionals. They should be generous in spirit, willing to share knowledge and insights, and driven by a shared goal of exceptional animal care and conservation science. The candidate should be intellectually curious and ideally have board certification or be actively pursuing it and contribute to scientific research and publications.
Qualifications: Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine and ability to obtain Illinois veterinary medical license required; post-doctoral training in zoological medicine or significant experience highly preferred. Significant experience in aquatic animal medicine; clinical experience with marine mammals highly desired. Please note that applications will also be accepted for an Associate role.
Certifications: USDA Category II accreditation, Illinois state veterinary license, Illinois state Controlled Substance license, DEA license required. ACZM board certification or eligibility highly preferred.
DHR Global is assisting Shedd Aquarium with this search. For a copy of the complete position description or to apply, please contact Michele Counter, Partner at DHR Global, at sheddvetsearch@dhrglobal.com.