Lead Veterinary Receptionist

LaFayette Veterinary Clinic is seeking a skilled and compassionate Lead Veterinary Receptionist to serve as the primary point of contact for our clients and their pets. This position plays an integral role in the overall client experience, requiring a professional who can balance administrative precision with genuine warmth across a wide range of interactions — including those of a sensitive or emotionally complex nature. 

Qualified candidates will bring demonstrated experience managing high-volume front desk operations, a calm and composed presence under pressure, and a commitment to delivering consistent, high-quality customer service in a clinical setting. 

What to Expect

As you join our mission, expect to be supported in your work and home life with: 

• A comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, and vision insurance
• Paid time off and a 401(k) plan for full-time employees
• Professional development opportunities
• Employee pet discount because we know your pets are family, too.

Salary: $19 - $21 per hour, determined by the candidate's skills, experience, and qualifications.

Schedule: This is a full-time position averaging 38–40 hours per week. Candidates must be available to work scheduled shifts Monday through Friday between 7:30 AM and 6:00 PM, with occasional Saturdays from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM.

Key Responsibilities:

• Manage front desk operations and ensure a warm, welcoming environment for clients and their pets.
• Supervise and train reception staff, promoting a team-oriented atmosphere.
• Schedule appointments, manage patient records, and handle billing inquiries with accuracy.
• Address client concerns with empathy and professionalism, ensuring a high standard of customer service.
• Collaborate with veterinary staff to streamline operations and enhance patient care.
• Greet clients and their pets, complete the appointment sign-in process, confirm appointment details, and escort clients to exam rooms.
• Ensure accurate service and product sales accounting, handle payments, process credit/debit cards, and schedule future appointments.
• Answer client calls for appointments, hospital inquiries, medication refills, and other requests. Make outbound calls for appointment reminders and follow-ups.
• Understand common vaccination protocols, basic lab tests, common diseases, veterinary terminology, and pet behavior.
• Assist in maintaining cleanliness and organization to ensure a positive client experience

Qualifications

• Minimum 2 years of experience as a veterinary receptionist is required
• Experience with veterinary practice management software; Cornerstone, Avimark, ImproMed, eVetPractice, or ezyVet preferred
• Knowledge of veterinary medical terminology, vaccination protocols, and basic diagnostic procedures
• Proficiency in appointment scheduling, multi-line phone management, medical records management, and payment processing
• Proven customer service skills; ability to manage high-volume client relations with composure and accuracy
• Strong verbal and written communication skills, including active listening and conflict resolution
• Comfortable handling animals of varying sizes, breeds, and temperaments, including fearful or reactive patients 

About LaFayette Veterinary Clinic

LaFayette Veterinary Clinic is a close-knit, small animal practice in LaFayette, NY, proudly serving our community for over 34 years from our charming historic 1800s building. With a 4.9-star Google rating and recognition as the 2025 Platinum Award winner in Community Votes Syracuse, we take pride in the trust and relationships we've built with local pets and their families. Our dedicated team of five veterinarians, licensed veterinary technicians, assistants, and receptionists works together to provide compassionate, high-quality care with a strong emphasis on client education and a Fear-Free approach. Many of our team members have been with us for over a decade, reflecting our supportive, collaborative culture. We're also proud to give back through school programs, local shelter drives, and youth sports sponsorships

We are dedicated to establishing a culture that celebrates all forms of diversity and allows us to be an inclusive service provider in this community.