Reports To: Hospital Supervisor/ManagerPosition Overview:The Lead Veterinary Assistant plays a critical role in supporting the daily operations of a 24-hour veterinary emergency and specialty hospital. This position is responsible for overseeing the schedules and attendance of the veterinary assistant team, ensuring effective communication, and managing the flow of tasks within the hospital. The Lead Veterinary Assistant will help delegate duties, support hospital staff, and maintain a high level of care for patients. They will work closely with veterinarians, supervisors, and management to address any concerns or issues that arise and ensure the smooth operation of the hospital.Key Responsibilities:
Supervision and Scheduling:
Oversee daily scheduling of veterinary assistants, ensuring adequate staffing coverage across all shifts, including nights, weekends, and holidays.
Monitor and approve time off requests, and handle call-outs and emergency absences in coordination with management.
Assist with shift adjustments and coverage, balancing staffing needs for optimal patient care and hospital efficiency.
Task Delegation & Flow Management:
Assign and prioritize tasks to veterinary assistants based on hospital needs and patient care requirements.
Ensure that veterinary assistants are fully prepared for their shifts, with proper equipment, training, and knowledge of their responsibilities.
Monitor patient flow, ensuring veterinary assistants are assisting with proper documentation, patient care, and treatment procedures in a timely manner.
Leadership & Training:
Serve as a mentor and point of contact for veterinary assistants, offering guidance, training, and support in day-to-day activities.
Promote a positive, collaborative team environment and foster communication between staff members.
Help onboard new veterinary assistants and assist with continued education and skills development.
Problem Resolution & Communication:
Address concerns or conflicts between team members and escalate unresolved issues to supervisors or managers as needed.
Collaborate with the management team to implement solutions to operational challenges and improve workflows.
Effectively communicate hospital policies, procedures, and any changes to the team.
Patient and Client Care Support:
Assist in direct patient care, including monitoring vital signs, preparing patients for surgery, administering medications, and ensuring comfort.
Assist veterinarians during diagnostic and treatment procedures, providing support where necessary.
Operational Support:
Help ensure cleanliness, safety, and organization of the hospital, including maintaining proper inventory levels of medical supplies and equipment.
Assist with hospital protocols related to infection control, safety regulations, and proper handling of hazardous materials.
Contribute to maintaining a calm, efficient, and compassionate environment for both staff and clients, particularly in high-stress or emergency situations.
Qualifications:
Proven experience as a veterinary assistant, with at least 3-5 years of experience in a veterinary hospital setting, ideally in an emergency or specialty care environment.
At least 1-2 years of experience in a supervisory or leadership role.
Strong knowledge of veterinary procedures, medical terminology, and hospital protocols.
Excellent communication and organizational skills, with the ability to multitask and manage time efficiently.
Ability to work in a fast-paced, high-pressure environment, maintaining composure and professionalism.
Compassionate, team-oriented, and customer service-driven attitude.
Certification as a veterinary assistant (preferred but not required).
Flexibility to work various shifts, including nights, weekends, and holidays.
Physical Requirements:
Ability to lift, carry, and move patients and equipment (up to 40 pounds).
Comfortable standing, walking, and performing physical tasks for extended periods.
Benefits:
Competitive salary
Health insurance, dental, and vision plans
Paid time off and holiday pay
Continuing education opportunities
Employee discounts on pet care services
Pay range - $22.50-$25.00 based on experienceIf you are a current associate, you will need to apply through our internal career site. Please log into Workday and click on the Jobs Hub app or search for Browse Jobs.Benefits: We offer competitive compensation along with a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, vision and paid vacation/sick days, 401(k), generous employee pet discounts and more!The information in this position description indicates the general nature and level of work to be performed. It is not designed to be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities, and qualifications required of associates assigned to this job. Management reserves the right to revise the job description or require that other tasks be performed when the circumstances of the job change (for example, emergencies, change in personnel, workload, or technical development)We are proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer - Veterans / Disabled. For a complete EEO statement please see our career page at vcacareers.com