Veterinary Assistant / Veterinary Receptionist

Churchland Animal Clinic is seeking an experienced Veterinary Assistant / Veterinary Receptionist to join our team and help create exceptional experiences for clients and patients across exam room and surgical workflows.

We are seeking a skilled, confident assistant with a strong customer service mentality who thrives in a fast-paced environment and is equally comfortable at the front desk as they are in the exam room working hands on with patients and clients. In this position, you will play a critical role in greeting clients as they arrive and also supporting efficient hospital operations in appointments, delivering high-quality patient care and handling, and contributing meaningfully to a collaborative, energetic team.

In this position, you will take an active role in:

• Supporting efficient front desk, exam room, outpatient, and surgical workflows throughout the day
• Assisting veterinarians during outpatient procedures, treatments, and surgical cases
• Maintaining accurate, thorough medical records and treatment documentation
• Building positive client relationships through education, communication, and attentive service
• Maintaining clean, organized, and fully prepared exam rooms, treatment areas, and procedural spaces

Schedule and compensation:

• Compensation: $16.00 – $19.00 per hour, for each hour worked
• This is a full-time position with a flexible schedule (offering 4x10s, 5x8s, late starts, or even 3 late shifts each week), and availability needed Monday–Saturday.
  • Standard shifts run 7:30 AM–6:00 PM, with extended evening availability needed on Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday until 9:00 PM.
  • Saturday coverage required the 1st and 3rd Saturday of each month, 7:30 AM–2:00 PM.

Full-time Benefits Package:

• Bonus package: Up to $500 depending on prior veterinary assistant experience
• Health package: Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• Life insurance and disability
• Employee Assistance Program
• 401k with company match
• Paid time off in accordance with site policy and applicable law
• Personal pet discount
• Uniform allowance

Part-time team members may be eligible for limited benefits in accordance with company policy and state law.

Minimum qualifications and skill set:

• 1+ years of veterinary assistant or related veterinary reception experience is preferred
• Proficiency in the following skills:
  • Compassionate, professional client communication and education
  • Ability to prioritize and multitask in a fast-paced environment
  • Ability to manage a multi-phone line system while assisting in-person clients
  • Dependable attendance and strong work ethic
  • Safe, gentle animal handling and restraint for dogs and cats of varying sizes and temperament
  • Exam room management and outpatient workflow support
  • Accurate medical record keeping and treatment documentation
  • Physical ability to stand, bend, lift, and restrain patients safely throughout the workday

About Churchland Animal Clinic

Churchland Animal Clinic in Portsmouth, VA is a well-established small animal practice known for its strong team culture, loyal client base, and commitment to high-quality, personalized care. Our 2-doctor team is supported by an experienced and tenured staff, including skilled credentialed technicians who play an integral role in patient care and surgery. We offer a full range of services including wellness care, soft tissue surgery, dentistry, and in-house diagnostics — all within a structured and efficient workflow.

What truly sets us apart is our culture — our team is energetic, collaborative, and genuinely enjoys working together in a fast-paced, supportive environment. With no on-call or emergency hours and a strong emphasis on teamwork and communication, Churchland Animal Clinic is an ideal setting for a motivated assistant who thrives in a lively, community-focused practice where your contributions truly matter.

Apply today — we look forward to hearing from you!