CDA- Bureau of Animal Protection Program Manager (Veterinarian II)

Candidates must hold a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) or equivalent degree and be licensed to practice veterinary medicine in Colorado. At least three years of professional veterinary experience, including one year of supervisory or program management experience, is required.

• Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) or equivalent degree from an accredited institution.
• Current Colorado veterinary license in good standing.
• Minimum three years of professional veterinary experience.
• At least one year of supervisory or program management experience.
• Knowledge of animal welfare laws, livestock theft statutes, and investigative procedures.
• Ability to develop and deliver training and educational materials.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills for collaboration with law enforcement and stakeholders.
• Experience with budget management and grant administration preferred.
• Valid Colorado driver's license and ability to travel statewide.

Direct and manage the Bureau of Animal Protection, including staff supervision and program oversight.

• Develop and implement policies and procedures for animal mistreatment and livestock theft investigations.
• Coordinate with local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies on animal cruelty cases.
• Provide expert veterinary consultation on animal health and welfare issues.
• Design and deliver educational programs for the public and agricultural community on animal care and legal responsibilities.
• Manage the bureau's budget, grants, and reporting requirements.
• Review and update state animal protection regulations and recommend legislative changes.
• Represent CDA at meetings, hearings, and public events related to animal protection.
• Oversee the investigation and resolution of complaints involving animal mistreatment and livestock theft.
• Maintain accurate records and prepare reports on bureau activities and outcomes.

Must be a licensed veterinarian in Colorado at the time of appointment.

• Ability to pass a background check and criminal history review.
• Valid Colorado driver's license and reliable transportation for statewide travel.
• Willingness to work in varied environments, including farms, ranches, and office settings.
• May require occasional evening or weekend work for emergencies or events.

Annual salary range $106,512

• $138,888.
• Complete health, dental, and vision insurance.
• Retirement benefits through the Colorado Public Employees' Retirement Association (PERA).
• Paid annual leave, sick leave, and holidays.
• Professional development opportunities and continuing education support.
• Life insurance and optional supplemental benefits.
• Flexible work schedule options may be available.

This position is classified as a Veterinarian II under the Colorado Department of Agriculture.

• The Bureau of Animal Protection is responsible for enforcing animal cruelty and livestock theft laws statewide.
• CDA values partnership, service, professionalism, proactivity, and respect.
• The department's wildly important goals include expanding market access, developing agricultural leaders, advancing the Colorado Water Plan, implementing the Beaver Strategy, and providing education on animal mistreatment and livestock theft.
• Colorado's agriculture industry generated $47 billion in economic activity in 2019 and supports nearly 5% of the state's workforce.
• This is a full-time, permanent position with the State of Colorado.
• For questions about the position, contact the CDA Human Resources office.
• Veterans and individuals with disabilities are encouraged to apply.

The Colorado Department of Agriculture (CDA) is the state agency responsible for strengthening and advancing Colorado's agriculture industry. Its mission includes promoting a safe and high-quality food supply, protecting consumers, and supports responsible stewardship of the environment. Agriculture touches every Coloradan through food, clothing, and animal care, and CDA works to support farmers, ranchers, and the agricultural economy. This role sits within CDA's Bureau of Animal Protection, which focuses on preventing animal mistreatment and livestock theft. The bureau works closely with law enforcement, veterinarians, and the agricultural community to enforce animal welfare laws and educate the public.