Lead Veterinary Assistant

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The Lead Veterinary Assistant plays a critical role in supporting the veterinary medical team by ensuring high-quality patient care, operational efficiency, and team alignment. This position serves as a clinical and operational leader within the hospital, working closely with veterinarians and leadership to guide assistants, optimize workflows, and maintain consistent standards in patient care and client communication.

Key Responsibilities

Clinical Support & Patient Care

• Assist veterinarians in the examination, diagnosis, and treatment of patients.
• Perform and support diagnostics including laboratory testing, radiographs, and sample collection.
• Administer treatments and medications as directed by the veterinarian.
• Ensure all patient care is delivered safely, efficiently, and in accordance with hospital protocols.
• Maintain accurate, timely, and complete medical records.

Team Leadership & Direction

• Help steer the assistant team in an effective, patient-care-focused direction.
• Serve as a role model by demonstrating high standards of clinical skill, efficiency, and professionalism.
• Provide real-time guidance and support to veterinary assistants during shifts.
• Assist in reinforcing hospital protocols, workflows, and expectations.
• Promote a collaborative team environment focused on patient safety and quality care.

Training & Development

• Train and onboard new veterinary assistants and support staff.
• Provide ongoing coaching and skill development for current associates.
• Identify gaps in knowledge or performance and support corrective training efforts.
• Ensure consistency in assistant skillsets and adherence to hospital standards.

Workflow & Labor Alignment

• Assist in daily labor coordination to ensure appropriate staffing levels for patient care needs.
• Support shift organization to maximize efficiency and minimize workflow disruptions.
• Help prioritize patient flow, treatments, and diagnostics in coordination with the veterinary team.
• Communicate staffing concerns or workflow inefficiencies to leadership.

Inventory & Ordering

• Manage weekly ordering of medical supplies, inventory, and consumables.
• Monitor stock levels to ensure availability of essential materials for patient care.
• Maintain organization and proper storage of supplies.
• Assist in controlling costs through efficient inventory management.

Client Communication

• Support veterinarians in communicating treatment plans, discharge instructions, and follow-up care.
• Provide clear, compassionate, and accurate information to clients regarding patient care.
• Reinforce a positive client experience through professionalism and empathy.
• Address client questions or concerns within scope, escalating as appropriate.

Operational & Administrative Support

• Ensure treatment areas, exam rooms, and hospital spaces are clean, stocked, and organized.
• Assist in implementing and maintaining standard operating procedures (SOPs).
• Support compliance with safety, regulatory, and controlled substance protocols.
• Participate in hospital meetings and contribute to continuous improvement initiatives.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 2 years of experience as a Veterinary Assistant (lead or senior experience preferred).
• Strong technical skills in animal handling, diagnostics, and treatment procedures.
• Demonstrated leadership, training, and organizational abilities.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment while maintaining attention to detail.

Core Competencies

• Leadership & Team Development
• Clinical Excellence
• Organization & Time Management
• Communication & Client Service
• Problem-Solving & Adaptability

Work Environment

• Fast-paced veterinary hospital setting requiring multitasking and physical activity.
• Ability to lift, restrain, and support animals of varying sizes.
• Flexibility with scheduling, including weekends and holidays as needed.

The pay range for this role is

$15.19 - $19.41 Hourly

The pay range listed reflects a general hiring range for the area, with the specific rate determined based on the candidate's experience, skill level, and education, and may vary depending on location or applicable minimum wage laws.

Here at Banfield, we prioritize your well-being and professional growth by offering a comprehensive total rewards package, including health, wellness, and financial support for you, your family, and even your pets. Check out some of our "Meow-velous" benefits:

• Comprehensive Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance: Enjoy peace of mind knowing your health and wellness are our top priorities. We've got your essential medical, dental, and vision care covered.

• Generous Retirement Plans (401(k) and Roth): Invest in your future and enjoy a generous company match to help you build a secure financial future.*

• Best-in-Class Student Debt Relief Program (for Full-Time DVMs): At Banfield, we understand the significant financial burden of student debt on veterinarians. We are committed to supporting our veterinary professionals and believe that addressing student debt is crucial for the long-term health of the veterinary profession.

• Paid Time Off and Holidays: Take a break, recharge your wellbeing, and celebrate days of personal significance with paid time off and holidays.*

• Top-Tier Mental Health and Wellbeing Resources: Your mental health matters. Access our industry-leading resources, including free coaching and counseling sessions, to support your overall wellbeing and help you thrive.*

• Associate Life Insurance (company-paid) & Supplemental Life Insurance: Protect your loved ones with our company-paid Associate life insurance and have the option to purchase additional coverage for extra peace of mind.

• Company-Paid Short- and Long-Term Disability: Feel secure knowing that if you face a temporary or long-term disability, you'll have financial protection.

• Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA): Save on healthcare and dependent care expenses by setting aside pre-tax money. It's a smart way to manage your budget and take care of your needs.

• Health Savings Account (HSA): Make the most of your healthcare dollars with a tax-advantaged HSA, allowing you to pay for medical expenses with pre-tax funds.

• Paid Parental Leave: We support growing families with paid parental leave for both birth and adoption, giving you precious time to bond with your new family addition.

• Continuing Education Allowance (for Eligible Positions): Banfield is committed to supporting the professional growth of our Associates. This allowance provides financial assistance to pursue continuing education opportunities.*

• Back-Up Child and Elder Care & Family Support Resources: When life's unpredictable moments arise, our backup care and family support benefits provide the help you need to keep things running smoothly.*

• Fertility and Family Building Support: We're here for you on your journey to parenthood, offering comprehensive support for fertility treatments and family-building options.

• Digital Exercise Therapy: Stay active and healthy with our digital exercise therapy program, designed to fit your busy lifestyle, and keep you moving.

• Voluntary Protection Benefits: Get peace of mind with protection against the unexpected. You can purchase coverage to help support you financially during hospital stays, critical illness, and accidents.*

• Legal Plan: Gain extra peace of mind with our affordable and accessible legal plan which includes coverage for a wide range of legal needs.*

• Identity Protection: Identity Protection helps safeguard your personal information by alerting you to suspicious activity and providing support if your information is stolen.*

• Commuter Benefits: Say goodbye to commuting stress with our commuter benefits, making your daily journey more convenient and cost-effective.*

• Three Free Optimum Wellness Plans for Pets: We care about your furry friends too! Enjoy three free wellness plans to ensure your pets receive the best preventive and general care.*

• Exclusive Discounts: Unlock a world of savings with our wide variety of exclusive discounts on products and services, making life more affordable and enjoyable.*

Benefits eligibility is based on employment status. Full-time (FT) Associates are eligible for all benefit programs (Student Debt Program available for FT DVMs only); Part-time Associates are eligible for those benefits with an asterisk (*).