Emergency Veterinary Assistant Shift Lead - Cambridge, MA

Veterinary Emergency Group (VEG)•Cambridge, MA

7h•$22 - $54

About The Position

VEG is hiring an Emergency Veterinary Assistant Shift Lead in Cambridge, Massachusetts. Shift Leads coordinate the rhythm and flow of each shift, maintaining awareness of patient status, team capacity, and operational needs while supporting high-quality patient care and a positive team experience. The role includes organizing team huddles and rounds, assigning and adapting shift roles, coordinating breaks, supporting workflow changes, and coaching team members on the floor. Shift Leads communicate key issues, support conflict resolution, lead shift transitions, and work with hospital leadership on coverage, call-outs, and ongoing coaching. They are expected to contribute wherever needed and foster a calm, supportive, learning-oriented environment. The position is part of VEG, a veterinary emergency organization with hospitals nationwide that operate 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. VEG describes its workplace as open-concept and emphasizes learning, mentorship, professional growth, and an inclusive culture.

Requirements

At least 1 year of experience in a veterinary technician or veterinary assistant role.
Strong understanding of clinical workflow and team dynamics.
Confidence navigating floor operations and guiding others with empathy.
Excellent communication and conflict-resolution skills.
Flexibility and willingness to step in wherever needed.
Leadership instincts, an ownership mindset, and desire for professional growth.
Basic computer skills and familiarity with practice management software and electronic medical records.
Ability to communicate effectively with pet parents and team members.
Fine motor skills for handling patients and medical equipment.
Ability to stand for prolonged periods, kneel, and work on the floor.
Ability to lift up to 25 kg independently and support up to 40 kg with assistance.
Willingness to work in a noisy environment with strong or unpleasant odors.
Availability to work nights, weekends, and holidays on a rotating or as-needed basis according to hospital needs.
Ability to work in a fast-paced environment with people from varied backgrounds and personality types.

Nice To Haves

Credentialed Veterinary Technician (CVT, RVT, LVT, or LVMT), or enrollment in the VEG Credentialing Support Program.
Experience in emergency or specialty veterinary medicine.

Responsibilities

Monitor patient status, team capacity, and needs across the shift.
Manage daily workflow and help the team adapt when unexpected situations arise.
Assign shift roles and adjust them as needed, communicating clearly and considerately.
Assist on the floor wherever help is needed.
Coordinate breaks, help resolve conflicts, and model calm behavior under pressure.
Lead shift transitions, team huddles, and start- and end-of-day wrap-ups.
Communicate clearly, direct questions to the appropriate people, and escalate important issues.
Help the team use downtime for learning or taking a moment to rest.
Report incidents and notable events with an emphasis on transparency and learning.
Work with hospital leadership on coverage, call-outs, and ongoing coaching.

Benefits

Competitive compensation of $22–$54 per hour, including base pay and a 401(k) match.
Medical, dental, and vision coverage starting on day one.
QPR training and access to free therapy or counseling.
Potential eligibility for equity after one year of full-time, active employment.
Clinical and leadership learning programs, unlimited emergency medicine continuing education, and a travel stipend.
Annual travel stipend of $2,500 for full-time credentialed employees and $1,000 for full-time uncredentialed employees.
Clinical student loan repayment.
Paid parental leave of up to 12 weeks at 100% of regular salary.
Fertility and family-building care for all types of families.
Flexible work schedules.
Employee referral program.
Comfy scrubs, VEG merchandise, and food in the refrigerator.