Overview

At the forefront of Forensic Veterinary Medicine, the Forensic Sciences department advances the ASPCA’s mission by transforming veterinary expertise and forensic science into meaningful justice for animals. Through direct casework, research, training, and outreach, the team not only supports the investigation and prosecution of cruelty cases, but also helps shape the future of veterinary forensic medicine and animal welfare.

The Forensic Sciences department is comprised of two teams based in New York City (NYC), which primarily supports New York City Police Department (NYPD) and District Attorney’s Offices with criminal cases, and Gainesville Florida, which primarily supports the ASPCA’s national criminal case response. Together, these teams advance the field of veterinary forensic science and the dissemination of basic forensic knowledge and tools to a broader audience of practicing veterinarians.

Who We Are

The NYC ASPCA Forensic Sciences team applies veterinary and forensic expertise to animal cruelty cases, supporting law enforcement, prosecutors, the veterinary community, and animal victims. Since 2014, in partnership with the NYPD, the NYC ASPCA Forensic Sciences team has provided forensic evaluations and expert consultation for suspected animal cruelty cases that are investigated by the NYPD. The team also contributes to research, training, the continued advancement of veterinary forensic science, and the dissemination of basic forensic knowledge and tools to veterinary students and a broader audience of practicing veterinarians.

What You’ll Do

Under the guidance of the Vice President of Forensic Sciences and the Senior Director of Forensic Sciences and alongside three additional forensic veterinarians, the Temporary Forensic Veterinarian provides forensic support on animal cruelty cases to the NYPD, the NYC District Attorney’s Offices, other law enforcement agencies, and the veterinary community (internal and external). While there are no direct animal care responsibilities, the Forensic Veterinarian will work closely with animal care teams to monitor the medical progress of case animals and the collection of necessary case evidence. 

This position has no direct reports.

Where and When You’ll Work

• This position is an on-site role and reports to the ASPCA location at 424 E. 92nd St., New York, NY
• This Temporary, Relief DVM will provide regular coverage of approximately 3 days weekly, likely including 1 weekend day, from September through February
• Desired days are Sunday-Tuesday (may be flexible)
• Hours are 10am-6pm ET

Temporary Role Details:

• This is a temporary, contingent position and the person hired will be employed through a third-party staffing agency. 
• The target rate for this temporary role is $135 per hour on weekdays and $150 per hour on weekends/holidays. This may be modified in the future.

Responsibilities

• Provide forensic veterinary case support for New York City animal cruelty and fighting investigations and prosecutions, including clinical forensic exams, necropsies, veterinary statements, medical record and/or video reviews, , and expert witness testimony grand jury proceedings, hearings, and trials.
• Collaborate with ASPCA departments and external partners to support case management and case flow.
• Assist internal and local veterinarians in the recognition and reporting of suspect animal cruelty cases.
• Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• Strong written and verbal communication skills, including clear and concise documentation.
• Organized and detail-oriented, with the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Ability to work both independently and as part of a team.
• Interest in or experience with animal cruelty cases, including neglect, abuse, animal fighting, and hoarding.
• Experience working with law enforcement, regulatory agencies, or legal teams is a plus.

Language

• English (required)

Education and Work Experience

• DVM or VMD (required)
• 3 +years practice in veterinary medicine required
• Experience in animal cruelty investigations is a plus, including neglect, abuse, animal fighting and animal hoarding