Lead Veterinary Assistant

Banfield Pet Hospital•Jacksonville, FL

12d•$15 - $19•Onsite

About The Position

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.

Requirements

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.

Responsibilities

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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.