Veterinarian - Des Moines, IA

Chief of Staff
Eastown Animal Hospital – Des Moines, IA

For more than 80 years, Eastown Animal Hospital has been a trusted cornerstone of veterinary care in East Des Moines, Pleasant Hill, Altoona, and surrounding communities. Our historic hospital blends long-standing client relationships with modern medical advancements—creating a uniquely rewarding environment for veterinarians who value both high-quality medicine and meaningful connections.

We are seeking a Chief of Staff to lead our close-knit, collaborative team. This is an excellent opportunity for a veterinarian who enjoys practicing thoughtful medicine, building lasting client relationships, and leading in a supportive, team-oriented environment.

About Our Hospital

• Loyal, multi-generational client base

• Small, collaborative team that values communication and camaraderie
• 2 exam rooms, 1 treatment area, and a dedicated surgical suite
• Ongoing renovations planned to expand exam rooms, dental/surgery areas, and add a comfort room
• Recently upgraded technology and infrastructure throughout the hospital
• Strong emphasis on client education, preventative care, and responsible pet ownership
• Active in the community with 2–3 events annually

Services & Equipment

• Preventative care and wellness services
• Surgical procedures (soft tissue and routine surgeries)
• Diagnostic imaging:
• Digital radiography (new X-ray generator & software)
• Digital dental radiography
• In-house diagnostics:
• Idexx ProCyte, Catalyst, SNAP, Sedivue
• Therapeutic laser treatments
• Collaboration with local boarding and grooming facilities to ensure continuity of care

Schedule & Work-Life Balance

• Leadership role is 90% patient care, 10% administrative duties, with a strong, experienced Hospital Manager to assist with management duties
• 4-day work week with no nights or weekends
• Surgery days (1–2 per week)
• Appointments from 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM (lunch break from 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM)
• Thoughtfully scheduled appointments:
• Standard: 30 minutes
• Extended (ADR, complex cases): 40+ minutes
• Sedation procedures: 60 minutes
• Manageable caseload:
• 12–14 patients on outpatient days
• 6–8 patients on surgery afternoons

Why Eastown Animal Hospital?

At Eastown, you’re not just treating patients—you’re building lifelong relationships. Many of our clients have trusted us for generations, and we take pride in knowing them (and their pets) by name. Our team genuinely cares about each other, our clients, and the role we play in their lives.

If you're looking for a place where you can practice high-quality medicine while feeling truly connected to the team you're leading and your community, Eastown Animal Hospital offers that rare balance.

Apply today to learn more about joining our team in Des Moines, IA! 

What We Offer

• Competitive compensation package with a straight salary model
• Monthly leadership stipend
• Comprehensive benefits (health, dental, vision)
• Paid time off and holidays + sick time
• Continuing education allowance and professional development support
• Licensing and professional dues coverage
• Supportive, team-focused work environment
• Strong emphasis on work-life balance

About Des Moines:

Overall, Des Moines offers a rare mix: professional opportunity without big-city burnout, and a strong sense of community without sacrificing things to do. It’s an ideal place for someone who wants both career growth and a more balanced, enjoyable day-to-day life.

Forget hour-long traffic jams—most commutes in Des Moines are under 20 minutes. That translates into more time at home, with family, or doing what you enjoy. Des Moines has an impressive park system and over 800 miles of trails. Spots like Gray's Lake Park and Pappajohn Sculpture Park offer easy access to walking, biking, kayaking, and relaxing outdoor spaces right in the city. The downtown scene is lively but approachable, with great restaurants, breweries, and events. You’ll find live performances at the Des Moines Civic Center, local art, farmers markets, and seasonal festivals that bring the community together. Des Moines is known for its safe neighborhoods, strong school systems, and welcoming atmosphere. It’s a place where people tend to stay long-term—and where building relationships feels easy and natural.