Veterinarian – Emergency and Critical Care (ECC)

Location: Townsville, Northern QLD

Job Type: Full-time

Salary Range: $128,000–$168,000

Are you ready to escape the bustle of city life and embrace a balanced lifestyle in regional North Queensland?

Imagine trading long, unsupported emergency shifts for a role in a collaborative ECC team, where support and specialist backup is available. At JCU Vet, we offer an exciting opportunity to grow your ECC career in a unique, multidisciplinary teaching hospital located in sunny Townsville!

Why JCU Vet?

• At JCU Vet, you’ll be part of a team that includes ECC, referral, and general practice services, all under one roof.
• We offer a work environment where clinicians and specialists collaborate closely, ensuring that patient care is of the highest quality while also preventing the isolation that can come with handling emergency situations alone.
• You’ll work closely with specialists in surgery, internal medicine, critical care, and anaesthesia, who are available to discuss cases and provide structured and unstructured learning opportunities.
• As a teaching hospital, we provide a unique opportunity for you to mentor the next generation of veterinarians.

About the Role

Due to increased demand, we’re looking to expand our team with veterinarians of all experience levels:

• For GP vets: We provide mentorship, training, and tutorials within your work hours to help you confidently transition into ECC.
• For ECC vets: You will receive dedicated support from our experienced team leaders and specialists, helping you to develop your skills and achieve your career goals. Additionally, we offer a structured in-house membership study program, which has a proven track record of high pass rates, ensuring you have all the tools you need for success.
• For seasoned ECC vets: JCU Vet fosters cross-departmental collaboration within a hospital committed to maintaining high standards of care and professional growth. You’ll have the opportunity to guide and mentor future veterinarians while contributing your ideas and expertise to the clinical advancement of our services.

Working under a balanced roster of day, night, and swing shifts, you’ll enjoy structured recovery time, letting you recharge and enjoy the incredible outdoor lifestyle that Townsville has to offer.

Life in Townsville

Townsville, with its proximity to the Great Barrier Reef, ancient rainforests, and stunning beaches, offers the perfect balance of urban convenience and regional charm. The city boasts a warm, welcoming community, excellent dining, a world-class stadium, and easy access to Cairns, the Whitsundays, and other iconic Queensland destinations. Townsville is home to the unique Museum of Underwater Art, offering unforgettable diving experiences. The region is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, with opportunities for fishing, hiking, snorkelling, and exploring Australia’s natural beauty during your days off.

For families, Townsville provides top-quality public and private schools as well as universities, along with a variety of family-focused events and sporting activities. Whether you prefer inner-city living or acreage with plenty of space for the family, pets, and a pool, Townsville offers a range of lifestyle options.

About You

This opportunity is open to veterinarians with a range of experience levels:

• GP vets: At least two years of general practice experience, OR a 12-month internship in a multidisciplinary setting.
• ECC vets: Sound experience in Emergency & Critical Care (ECC) or completion of an ECC internship.
• Experienced ECC vets: A passion for mentorship, collaboration, teaching, and advancing veterinary care in a supportive environment.

What We Offer

• Salary: AUD $128K–$167k, commensurate with experience
• Leave: 5 weeks of annual leave and 1 week of paid study leave
• CPD: AUD $2500 annually to support external Continuing Professional Development (CPD)
• Structured Roster: Balanced shifts with recovery time for a healthy work-life balance
• Relocation Assistance: Available for intrastate, interstate, and international candidates
• A Collaborative Culture: Work in a multidisciplinary, learning-focused hospital with a close-knit, passionate team.
• Mentoring and teaching opportunities: In a friendly supportive environment
• RECOVER training: And access to internal JCU CPD training events
• Access to the JCU Fitness Passport: For well-being and fitness
• Employee discounts: On veterinary services

Ready to Apply?

If you’re looking for a rewarding ECC role with the support of specialists and a vibrant regional lifestyle, we’d love to hear from you!

For a confidential discussion or to apply: Send your resume and cover letter to veterinarycareers@jcu.edu.au

Visit www.jcuvet.com.au to learn more about our team, our values, and the incredible opportunities with JCU Vet.