Forensic Veterinarian

About the role

The ASPCA's Forensic Sciences department works at the forefront of forensic veterinary medicine, turning veterinary expertise and forensic science into justice for animals. The New York City team supports the NYPD and the District Attorney's offices with criminal cases, while the Gainesville, Florida team supports the national criminal case response. This on-site position reports to the Vice President and Senior Director of Forensic Sciences and works alongside three other forensic veterinarians; it has no direct reports.

Key responsibilities

• Provide forensic veterinary case support for animal cruelty and fighting investigations and prosecutions, including clinical forensic exams, necropsies, veterinary statements, medical record and video reviews, discovery production and expert witness testimony at grand jury proceedings, hearings and trials.
• Ensure proper evidence handling, including chain of custody, evidence transfer and standardized forensic methods.
• Assist in planning ASPCA-NYPD case field responses and give on-scene support such as animal triage and documentation.
• Help internal and local veterinarians recognize and report suspected animal cruelty cases, and collaborate with other ASPCA departments and partners on case management.
• Contribute to developing and refining forensic protocols and procedures, and help with large-scale case deployments.
• Work with Humane Law Enforcement, Criminal Practice and Investigations, the Animal Recovery Center and the Rescue and Rehabilitation Center, and present case status at weekly meetings.
• Teach and train: support the veterinary forensic externship and internship programs, mentor investigators, and deliver training for law enforcement, veterinarians, attorneys and students; may act as instructor or co-instructor.
• Represent the forensic team before media and maintain strict confidentiality about criminal cases.

Required profile

• Interest in or experience with animal cruelty cases, including neglect, abuse, animal fighting and hoarding.
• Experience or training in forensic necropsy and/or clinical forensic examinations.
• Familiarity with evidence handling and basic forensic principles.
• Plus: experience working with law enforcement, regulatory agencies or legal teams; courtroom testimony experience; research experience.

Required skills

• Strong written and verbal communication, with clear and concise documentation.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment, working independently and in a team.
• Interest in teaching, training or mentoring others.

What we offer

• Target hiring salary range of $165,000 - $176,000, with a relocation bonus for non-local residents.
• Health coverage, flexible time off, paid parental leave, 10 company holidays, and a 401(k) with employer matching.
• Professional development, internal mobility and public service loan forgiveness eligibility.

Schedule includes 1-2 weekend days and 1-2 on-call nights per week (phone only).