Veterinary Nursing Shift Lead - Cambridge, MA

Veterinary Emergency Group (VEG)•Cambridge, MA

7h•$22 - $70

About The Position

VEG is seeking a Veterinary Nursing Shift Lead to coordinate the rhythm and flow of a veterinary emergency hospital shift. The role helps ensure patients receive high-quality care and team members have the support they need. The Shift Lead maintains a broad view of patient status, staffing, and shift needs; supports workflow and transitions; and steps in on the floor as needed. The role also involves coaching and communication, coordinating breaks, responding to changing circumstances, and working with hospital leadership on coverage and ongoing coaching. VEG operates hospitals nationwide that are open 24/7, 365 days a year. The role requires availability for nights, weekends, and holidays on a rotating or as-needed basis according to hospital needs. The position calls for empathy, humility, ownership, curiosity, and a commitment to learning and supporting a diverse team.

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 while guiding others empathetically.
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, depending on hospital needs.
Ability to work in a fast-paced environment with people from diverse 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 and adjust shift roles, communicating expectations clearly and thoughtfully.
Assist on the hospital floor wherever needed.
Coordinate breaks, help resolve conflicts, and model calm 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 rest.
Report incidents and notable events transparently, with a focus on learning and growth.
Work with hospital leadership on coverage, call-outs, and ongoing coaching.

Benefits

Competitive compensation of $22–$70 per hour and a 401(k) match.
Medical, dental, and vision coverage beginning on day one.
QPR training and access to free therapy or counseling.
Potential equity eligibility after one year of full-time, active employment, depending on role.
Clinical and leadership learning programs, unlimited emergency-care continuing education, and a travel stipend.
Annual travel stipend for full-time credentialed VEGgies ($2,500) and full-time uncredentialed VEGgies ($1,000).
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 swag, and food in the fridge.
Generous employee referral program.