What are the responsibilities and job description for the Front Desk Receptionist position at Essential Vet Partners?
Company Description
Harbor Pines Veterinary Center is a full-service animal hospital dedicated to providing compassionate, high-quality veterinary care to pets and their families in the Harbor City community. Our team combines modern medicine with a personal touch, offering everything from routine wellness visits to advanced diagnostics and surgical care. We're committed to building lasting relationships with our clients and their pets, and to fostering a workplace where our staff can grow, learn, and thrive.
Position Summary
As our Veterinary Receptionist, you are the first point of contact for clients and their pets. You'll manage front-desk operations, schedule appointments, handle client communications, and support our clinical team — all while creating a calm, friendly experience for anxious pets and worried owners.
Key Responsibilities
- Greet clients and patients warmly as they arrive and check them in and out
- Answer and manage a multi-line phone system, returning calls and responding to client inquiries
- Schedule, confirm, and reschedule appointments, surgeries, and follow-ups
- Process payments, invoices, and handle basic billing questions
- Maintain accurate client and patient records in the practice management system
- Relay client concerns and information to veterinarians and technicians
- Manage incoming and outgoing communications (email, texts, prescription refill requests)
- Keep the reception area clean, organized, and welcoming
- Handle sensitive situations (sick pets, grieving clients) with empathy and professionalism
- Support the clinical team with administrative tasks as needed
Qualifications
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Previous receptionist, customer service, or veterinary/medical office experience preferred
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills
- Comfortable working in a fast-paced environment with animal’s present
- Proficient with computers
- Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail
- Genuine love for animals and compassion for their owners
- Ability to remain calm and professional in emotional or high-pressure situations
Preferred (Not Required)
- Experience with veterinary practice management software
- Knowledge of common veterinary terminology
- Bilingual (English/Spanish a plus in our community)
Pay: $20.00 - $24.00 per hour
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- Dental insurance
- Health insurance
- Life insurance
- Paid time off
- Vision insurance
Application Question(s):
- This role requires availability during our full operating hours. Are you available to work Mon–Fri 8am–6pm, plus occasional Saturdays?
- Are you comfortable working in an environment with animals present, including handling situations with sick, injured, or deceased pets and emotional clients?
- What is your desired hourly pay rate?
Experience:
- Veterinary clinic: 1 year (Preferred)
Ability to Commute:
- Harbor City, CA 90710 (Required)
Work Location: In person
Salary : $20 - $24