Job Title: Veterinary Assistant / Receptionist
Location: Black Forest Veterinary Clinic
Reports To: Managing Veterinarian / Practice Manager

Job Summary:

We are seeking a compassionate, highly organized, and customer-oriented individual to join our team as a Veterinary Assistant / Receptionist. This dual role requires providing excellent customer service to pet owners while assisting the veterinary team with patient care. The successful candidate will be the first point of contact for clients and will play a vital role in ensuring smooth daily operations of the clinic.

Key Responsibilities:

Receptionist Duties:

• Greet and check in clients and their pets, providing a warm, professional, and friendly environment.
• Answer phone calls, respond to client inquiries, schedule appointments, and manage the clinic's appointment calendar.
• Handle client check-out, including processing payments, invoicing, and collecting payments for services.
• Maintain client records, ensuring all information is accurate and up to date in the clinic's database.
• Provide information on veterinary services, pet care advice, and recommendations for follow-up appointments or treatments.
• Manage client communications via email, phone, and other channels, following up on appointment reminders, test results, and ongoing treatments.
• Assist in managing the clinic's email and receptionist worklist.
• Maintain a clean and organized lobby.

Veterinary Assistant Duties:

• Assist veterinarians and veterinary technicians in the care and treatment of animals during exams, procedures, and surgeries.
• Prepare treatment areas and ensure all necessary medical supplies and equipment are ready for use.
• Help restrain animals during exams, lab tests, or procedures, ensuring their comfort and safety.
• Assist with administering medications, vaccines, and treatments as directed by veterinarians.
• Maintain cleanliness and sterilization of medical instruments, exam rooms, and surgical areas.
• Monitor patient conditions during procedures and provide updates to veterinarians and technicians.
• Perform routine diagnostic tests (e.g., fecal, blood, or urine tests) under the supervision of the veterinarian.
• Prepare and maintain detailed patient records, including medical histories, test results, and treatments.
• Assist with the management of inventory, ensuring that medical supplies and medications are stocked.

Qualifications:

• Education & Experience: High school diploma or equivalent. Previous experience in a veterinary office or animal care setting is preferred but not required.
• Skills:
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to interact positively with clients and their pets.
• Organizational skills and attention to detail, with the ability to multitask in a fast-paced environment.
• Ability to work well both independently and as part of a team.
• Knowledge of veterinary terminology and medical procedures is a plus.
• Proficiency with office software and scheduling systems; experience with veterinary software (e.g., AVImark) is a plus.
• Basic knowledge of animal care and medical terminology.

Physical Demands:

• Ability to lift and move animals (up to 40 pounds) with or without assistance.
• Ability to stand, walk, bend, and kneel for extended periods of time.
• Comfortable working in a clinical environment with animals, including potential exposure to allergens, chemicals, and medications.

Work Environment:

• Fast-paced, client-focused veterinary clinic.
• Opportunity to interact with a variety of animals and clients, contributing to their care and well-being.
• Full-time or part-time hours, including potential weekend shifts depending on the clinic's needs.

Benefits:

• $16.00-$18.00/hourly rate based on experience.
• Health insurance, paid time off, and other benefits.
• Employee discounts on services and pet products.
• Continuing education and training opportunities.