Veterinary Technology Program Director

ANNOUNCEMENT OF POSITION VACANCY

Title (Function): Veterinary Technology Program Director
Department: CMU Tech
Reporting To: Director of Allied Health
FLSA Status: Exempt
Compensation: $75,000.00-78,900.00. Commensurate with education and experience. Excellent health and retirement benefits package: Click here for more information!
Open Date: 07/09/2025
Close Date: 07/27/2025 11:59 PM MST

SECTION
I - OUR VALUES CULTIVATE OUR VISION AND CULTURE

At CMU, we believe
in acting from a foundation of goodwill. This belief gives us the courage to
form meaningful relationships, embark on joint endeavors and take risks in the
pursuit of new possibilities. It's this courage that enables the Mavily to explore
new ways of thinking and doing, knowing that there is no perfect solution, no
perfect idea.

From this place of humility and courage, we've built a culture of resilience.
We invest in the future by continuously adapting to change, overcoming
challenges, and seizing new opportunities. We recognize that change is
constant, and our resilience allows us to embrace it with confidence. Endless
curiosity drives us to approach the unexpected as if it were expected, seeing
opportunities for discovery and renewal in every challenge. In this community
rooted in love and dignity, curiosity thrives, leading to endless opportunities
for growth and advancement.

Inspired by the soul of the West-the spirit that our region embodies-we emerge
as a force for positive change, harnessing our collective power to build a
Human Scale University that reflects our values and brings to life our shared
vision of the world we aspire to create.

Colorado Mesa University Core Values
Love - Extending oneself for nurturing the growth of self and
others
Dignity - Respecting the intrinsic value of each person and
believing that others act from a foundation of goodwill
Courage - Taking risks in the pursuit of new possibilities
Humility - Suspending one's ego and pride to recognize that no idea
is perfect and being open to the input of others
Resiliency - Investing in the future by adapting to changes,
overcoming challenges and pursuing Opportunity
Curiosity - Cultivating awe and exploring the unknown
Power - The strength to act collaboratively with individual agency to
achieve our goals

SECTION
II - THE SEAT

At CMU, we look at
every position as a seat. Every seat is vital and the individual in the seat
contributes significantly to our mission of providing an affordable and
accessible education and forming meaningful and mutually enriching partnerships
that support the well-being and vibrancy of our community. As a human centric
organization, a priority is to ensure we have the "right seats" in our
organization, and that the expectations, ownership and accountabilities are
defined and communicated clearly for the success of the individuals holding the
seats.

The leader in this seat will serve as
the Veterinary Technology (Vet Tech) Program Director, a 12-month
administrative position with faculty responsibilities. This seat directly
influences the quality, integrity, and reputation of the Vet Tech program,
ensuring that graduates are workforce-ready and aligned with the evolving needs
of veterinary partners. As a key academic and community leader, the Program
Director is essential in building meaningful clinical partnerships, supporting
student and faculty development, and advancing CMU Tech's mission of
accessibility, excellence, and community well-being.

OVERVIEW AND ROLE SCOPE OF TEAM AND/OR TASKS
The Vet Tech
Program Director reports to the Vice President of Technical Education and
Workforce Development. The Vet Tech Program Director coordinates and directs the
activities of the Veterinary Technology Program at CMU Tech. The program
director is responsible for the daily operation, organization, administration,
general effectiveness, and supervision of the Veterinary Technology Program, as
well as program planning, teaching, development, coordinating and maintaining
accreditation.

Key responsibilities include:

• Directs
  faculty members to ensure instruction provided follows the approved
  curriculum and achieves program and course desired outcomes
  
• Collaborate
  with administration in the design and implementation of the program
  
• Develop
  and maintain a curriculum that meets standards of accreditation
  
• Evaluate
  course content and texts within the program
  
• Assist
  campus student services with admission recruitment of students for the
  program
  
• Recommend
  class schedules and instructor teaching assignments
  
• Maintain
  good working relations with all clinical affiliates
  
• Perform
  all responsibilities and instructional duties in accordance with local,
  state, and federal regulations regarding the practice of veterinary
  medicine, as well as CMU Tech / CMU policies and procedures
  
• Responsible
  for organizing continuous program review and development processes that
  assure program effectiveness
  
• Perform
  functions of a veterinary technology instructor including teaching and
  evaluating students in the program
  
• Order
  supplies and maintain equipment as needed
  
• Coordinate
  the use of educational facilities, clinical resources, and experiential
  learning opportunities
  
• Develop
  and maintain ongoing relationships within the community, fostering the
  program's responsiveness to community/employer needs
  
• Participate
  in academic advising and guidance of the students
  Prepare
  annual reports and self-study reports necessary for accreditation
  
• Participate
  in veterinary professional development activities that facilitate
  professional expertise in the areas of administration, teaching and
  maintenance of clinical competence
  
• Participate
  in local, state, and national veterinary professional associations
  
• Develop
  and maintain an active advisory committee
  
• Assist
  with open houses and orientation
  
• Maintain and manage
  program budget
  
• Other duties may be assigned as needed by our business.

  ROLES
  The
  following roles define the core areas of leadership and oversight held by the Vet
  Tech Program Director.
  
  Academic Leader



• Champions academic quality, instructional integrity, and curriculum
  relevance.
  
• Ensures alignment with accreditation standards, educational best
  practices, and industry needs.
  
• Guides program evolution through data-driven planning and
  innovation.

  
  Veterinary Professional Advocate



• Serves as a voice for the veterinary technician profession within
  the college and the community.
  
• Keeps the program connected to current clinical practices, ethical
  standards, and regulatory updates.
  
• Acts as a model of professionalism for students and faculty alike.

  
  Faculty Mentor & Team Builder



• Supports, develops, and evaluates faculty and instructional staff.
  
• Fosters a collaborative culture grounded in shared ownership, trust,
  and instructional excellence.
  
• Encourages continuous learning, peer feedback, and reflective
  practice.

  
  Data-Driven Decision-Maker



• Uses assessment data, student outcomes, and industry feedback to
  inform program planning and improvements.
  
• Prepares clear, accurate reports to support internal and external
  accountability.

  
  Strategic Planner & Innovator



• Leads program-level strategic planning aligned with CMU Tech's
  vision and workforce needs.
  
• Identifies and pursues opportunities for growth, including new
  partnerships, modalities, or credentials.

  
  Community & Industry Connector



• Builds and nurtures relationships with veterinary clinics, advisory
  boards, employers, and alumni.
  
• Acts as a liaison to ensure the program meets local and regional
  workforce needs.

  
  Student-Centered Educator



• Ensures the student experience is supportive, inclusive, and geared
  toward professional readiness.
  
• Collaborates across departments to support student advising,
  retention, and well-being.

  
  Operational & Compliance Manager



• Manages day-to-day operations of the program including scheduling,
  budgeting, and clinical placements.
  
• Ensures safety, accreditation, and institutional policies are
  followed with fidelity.

  SECTION
  III - OUR DESIRES FOR RIGHT FIT

  For the success of
  our mission and our teams, we desire to have individuals who are a "Right Fit"
  in our seats. We define "Right Fit" as those who embrace our culture,
  demonstrate our values, understand the seat and what is required. We seek
  individuals who want this seat, desire to be a part of a bigger vision and have
  the capacity to be a successful member of our CMU team.

• View
  the Vet Tech program as a vital community service that shapes ethical,
  skilled professionals who impact animal and public health.
  
• Bring
  purpose and pride to the seat - not only fulfilling requirements, but
  championing the profession
  
• Understand
  the rigors of veterinary practice and translate that into meaningful
  learning experiences.
  
• Build
  trust with faculty, staff, and students through transparent, respectful
  communication.
  
• Is
  willing to make hard decisions with fairness and clarity - prioritizing
  what's best for students and the program.
  
• Can
  lead through curriculum shifts, accreditation cycles, enrollment trends,
  and external challenges with calm and clarity.
  
• Is
  open to feedback, and committed to continuous improvement.
  
• Keep
  student learning, safety, and well-being at the heart of all planning and
  leadership actions.
  
• See
  students as future colleagues and treats them with respect and high
  expectations.
  
• Respect
  the unique needs of CMU Tech's community, including rural and regional
  veterinary care demands.
  
• Build
  strong local relationships and sees community engagement as part of the
  role.

  CAPACITY REQUIREMENTS



• Understands
  veterinary technology education, accreditation (AVMA-CVTEA), and licensure
  requirements.
  
• Able
  to lead, support, and evaluate faculty and staff while fostering a
  collaborative team culture.
  
• Committed
  to student success, equity, and inclusive learning environments.
  
• Can
  manage multiple responsibilities effectively and efficiently.
  
• Communicates
  clearly with students, faculty, partners, and across departments.
  
• Capable
  of planning for program growth, solving complex problems, and using data
  to make informed decisions.
  
• Builds
  strong, professional partnerships with clinical sites, community
  stakeholders, and industry leaders.
  
• Comfortable
  using learning platforms (e.g., LMS), data systems, and administrative
  tools.
  
• Stays
  focused and positive through change, challenges, and high workloads.
  
• Takes
  responsibility for the program's quality and outcomes, acting with
  professionalism and purpose.
  
  ESSENTIAL EXPERIENCE FOR RIGHT FIT
  
• Doctor
  of Veterinary Medicine degree from an American Veterinary Medical
  Association (AVMA) accredited school;
  
• Must
  hold a current license or eligible to be licensed, as a Doctor of
  Veterinary Medicine in the State of Colorado
  
• Must
  have 4000 hours (approximately 2 years' full time) of related occupational
  experience within the past 7 years
  
• Excellent
  communication and presentation skills
  
• Knowledge
  of Word, Excel, Power Point and other computer skills
  
• Possess
  a Career and Technical Education Credential within six months of
  employment (approximately 40 hours' classroom time) is preferred
  
• Experience in teaching adults is preferred
  
• Strong
  interest in and commitment to the highest quality laboratory-based
  teaching, be responsive to changing industry expectations, and support
  strong industry/community relations is preferred
  
• Willing
  to serve as the attending veterinarian for the institutional animal care
  and use committee is preferred
  
• Oversees
  animal use for the university particularly the Vet Tech Program is preferred
  
• Hold or eligible to
  get a DEA license is preferred
  
  Reasonable
  accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform
  the essential functions.
  
  DISCLAIMER - This position description is only a summary of the typical
  functions of this seat, and not an exhaustive list of all responsibilities and
  areas of accountability.
  
  DIRECT INQUIRIES
  CONTACT: Brigitte Sundermann, bsunderm@coloradomesa.edu
  
  HOW TO APPLY: Applicants will be
  asked to complete an online application by creating a profile and then
  providing personal and demographic information. In addition, please be prepared
  to upload a:
  
• Cover letter
  
• Resume
  
• Include the name,
  phone number, email address and relationship of at least three professional
  references who can attest to your ability to perform the job you are applying
  for. Professional references should include at least one current or former
  supervisor. Professional reference may also include current or former
  employers, colleagues or other professionals who have first-hand knowledge and
  can recommend you for employment.
  
• Copy of
  transcripts for all degrees completed (if your transcripts include a social
  security number or birthdate, please redact that information before uploading
  the document. Official transcripts will be required upon hire)

  ABOUT
  COLORADO MESA UNIVERSITY

  A comprehensive
  university in Grand Junction, Colorado Mesa University provides exceptional
  educational opportunities on a state-of-the-art campus. As western Colorado's
  largest university, CMU serves students on its main campus in Grand Junction,
  its satellite campus in Montrose, its technical college, CMU Tech, and via
  online offerings.

  Colorado Mesa
  University serves as the primary intellectual and cultural center of western
  Colorado and promotes the exchange of ideas that are of regional, national, and
  international importance. Founded in 1925, it is a dynamic university enrolling
  10,000 students at the associate, baccalaureate, and graduate levels.
  
  At the heart of
  the CMU experience is an integrative and experiential approach to higher
  education that encourages students to think differently and empowers them to
  challenge assumptions. CMU brings students together with expert scholars and
  thinkers from different disciplines to make connections between ideas and gain
  the skills to solve the unstructured, complex problems they will encounter in
  life. Our focus is on providing quality academic programs, built on a strong
  liberal arts core that supports students' interests and regional employment
  needs, as well as technical programs that respond to vocational workforce
  demands.
  
  The Grand Valley is
  home to some of the best outdoor recreation in the state of Colorado and you
  will not have to fight traffic and crowds to enjoy it. CMU is surrounded by the
  Grand Mesa, Book Cliffs, and the Colorado National Monument. We have world-class
  mountain biking, rock climbing, hiking, rafting, and a mountain resort that's
  less than 45 minutes from campus for skiing, snowboarding, and cross-country
  skiing. Living and working in Grand Junction, you will be able to explore one
  of Colorado's best kept secrets.
  
  Colorado Mesa
  University is particularly interested in candidates who have experience working
  with students from diverse backgrounds and who have a demonstrated commitment
  to improving the levels of access and success for underrepresented students
  within higher education.
  
  Colorado Mesa
  University is committed to providing a safe and productive learning and living
  community. To achieve that goal, we conduct background investigations for all
  final applicants being considered for employment. Background investigations
  include reference checks, a criminal history record check, and when
  appropriate, a financial and/or motor vehicle history. Applicant must be able
  to verify U.S. employment eligibility. Colorado Mesa University is an Equal
  Opportunity Employer, committed to a culturally diverse faculty, staff and
  student body. Women and minorities are encouraged to apply. Any person with a
  disability as defined by the ADA Amendments Act of 2008 (ADAAA) may be provided
  reasonable accommodation upon request to enable the person to complete an
  employment assessment. To request an accommodation, please contact the CMU
  Human Resources Office by phone or email. You may be asked to provide
  additional information, including medical documentation, regarding functional
  limitations and the type of accommodation needed.

  
  Colorado Mesa University
  
  Attn: Human Resources Office
  
  1100 North Avenue
  
  Grand Junction, CO 81501

  
  970.248.1820