Veterinarian, Johannesburg, South Africa

A leading public health and diagnostic organisation is seeking a qualified and experienced Veterinarian to provide professional veterinary leadership across animal production, research, diagnostic, and laboratory animal programmes within a highly regulated scientific environment.

This role is based in Sandringham and will support critical public health initiatives through veterinary oversight, quality assurance, biosafety compliance, and ethical animal care management across SAVP and NICD facilities.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide veterinary leadership and oversight across animal production, research, and diagnostic programmes.
• Manage the Small Animal Unit, Quality Control, and Stables Department.
• Oversee laboratory animal activities and ensure compliance with animal welfare and ethics standards.
• Lead institutional animal ethics committee activities in line with SANS 10386:2008 requirements.
• Ensure compliance with SAVC regulations, GLP/GMP standards, biosafety requirements, GMO legislation, and animal transport regulations.
• Conduct health and welfare inspections for laboratory animals and poultry flocks.
• Monitor analytical procedures and interpret quality control testing results.
• Oversee CAPAs, deviations, validation protocols, and quality system processes.
• Develop and review SOPs and ensure operational compliance.
• Supervise procedures including blood collection, necropsy, and animal treatment plans.
• Manage supplier and research stakeholder relationships, including antivenom-related projects.
• Train and assess staff competency relating to animal handling and veterinary procedures.
• Respond to veterinary emergencies when required.

Minimum Requirements

• Bachelor of Veterinary Science (BVSc/MVMCH – NQF 7)
• Registered with the South African Veterinary Council (SAVC)
• Valid driver's licence
• Minimum 5 years post-qualification veterinary experience
• Previous supervisory or management experience advantageous
• Experience with laboratory animals, poultry, sheep, and equine environments advantageous
• Strong understanding of GLP/GMP, biosafety, animal welfare, quality systems, and veterinary ethics