Principal Veterinarian – Columbia Heights, MN
About the Role
A well-established small animal general practice is seeking an experienced Principal Veterinarian to lead their hospital in Columbia Heights, Minnesota. This is a senior leadership opportunity for a veterinarian who is passionate about medical excellence, team development, and operational success.
The role combines hands-on clinical practice with strategic leadership, offering autonomy, strong support, and the ability to shape hospital culture and performance. This position is ideal for an experienced veterinarian ready to take the next step into principal-level leadership or a former practice owner seeking a supported leadership role.
About the Practice
They operate a high-quality, full-service small animal hospital offering comprehensive preventative care, surgery, dentistry, and urgent care services. The practice is well-equipped with modern diagnostic and treatment tools and supported by a skilled team of credentialed technicians, assistants, and client care professionals.
The hospital maintains autonomy while benefiting from a wider professional support network, allowing leadership to focus on medicine, people, and sustainable growth. A strong emphasis is placed on collaboration, mentorship, and long-term career satisfaction.
Located just minutes from Minneapolis and St. Paul, Columbia Heights offers a balance of community-focused living with convenient access to major metropolitan amenities.
Responsibilities
Clinical & Medical Leadership
Ensure consistent delivery of high-quality veterinary care and patient safety
Maintain medical standards across surgery, dentistry, anesthesia, and diagnostics
Oversee medical record quality and regulatory compliance
Hospital & Team Leadership
Partner with the Practice Manager to support daily operations and long-term planning
Lead hospital meetings, budgeting, productivity planning, and performance initiatives
Recruit, train, mentor, and develop associate veterinarians and support staff
Foster a positive, collaborative, and accountable hospital culture
Operational & Compliance Oversight
Ensure compliance with state veterinary regulations, DEA, OSHA, and controlled substance laws
Resolve client and employee concerns professionally and effectively
Support scheduling strategies to meet client needs while protecting work-life balance
Community & Business Development
Participate in community outreach, events, and local marketing initiatives
Support hospital growth, efficiency, and financial performance
Candidate Profile
Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM/VMD) or equivalent
Eligible for or holding a Minnesota veterinary license
5+ years of clinical experience in a small animal hospital setting
Prior leadership, medical director, ownership, or equivalent management experience
Proven ability to mentor associate veterinarians and develop clinical teams
Strong communication, conflict resolution, and organizational skills
USDA accreditation preferred; DEA license required upon hire
Compensation & Benefits
Base salary: $130,000 – $175,000 plus production
Principal Doctor bonus structure
Quarterly production bonuses with no negative accrual
Full-time benefits starting at 30 hours per week
Sign-on bonus and relocation assistance available
Up to 220 hours of paid time off, including holidays, CE, and sick time
Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance
Generous HSA contribution
Flexible continuing education allowance
No non-compete agreements
Pet wellness plans and scrub allowance
Strong operational, HR, and leadership support
Emphasis on work-life balance and leadership longevity
Apply Today
This is an outstanding opportunity for veterinarians seeking Principal Veterinarian jobs in Minnesota or Veterinary Medical Director roles in Columbia Heights, MN with autonomy, support, and competitive compensation.
Contact:
Nick Gray - Director & Talent Acquisition Specialist
T: (786) 633-2054
E: nick@supreme-ss.com