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Full Time Veterinary Receptionist Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Veterinary Receptionist

Independence, IA · On-site

$15 - $17.50/hr

Veterinary Receptionist Independence Veterinary Clinic | Independence, Iowa We believe in a Whole ... Team oriented * Communication skills All Full Time Team Members are eligible for benefits ...

Full Time Veterinary Receptionist information

See Iowa salary details

$9

$14

$18

How much do full time veterinary receptionist jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for full time veterinary receptionist in Iowa is $14.86, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.56 and $16.25 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a full time veterinary receptionist?

Full Time Veterinary Receptionists are administrative professionals who work in veterinary clinics or animal hospitals, managing front desk operations and customer service. Their responsibilities typically include answering phones, scheduling appointments, greeting clients and their pets, processing payments, and maintaining medical records. They play a crucial role in ensuring smooth communication between pet owners and veterinary staff. As the first point of contact, they provide compassionate support to clients and help create a welcoming environment for both animals and their owners.

What are some typical challenges a full time veterinary receptionist might face, and how can they be addressed?

Full Time Veterinary Receptionists often handle a fast-paced environment where multitasking is essential, such as managing phone calls, scheduling appointments, and assisting distressed pet owners. One common challenge is balancing administrative duties with providing compassionate customer service, especially during busy periods or emergencies. Building strong communication skills, staying organized, and remaining calm under pressure can help manage these challenges effectively. Additionally, teamwork with veterinarians and technicians is crucial to ensure smooth clinic operations and positive experiences for both pets and their owners.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a full time veterinary receptionist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Full Time Veterinary Receptionist, you need strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with veterinary practice management software, appointment scheduling systems, and basic office equipment is typically required. Exceptional communication, empathy, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are standout soft skills in this role. These abilities are crucial for efficiently managing front desk operations, ensuring a positive client experience, and supporting smooth clinic workflow.

What is the difference between Full Time Veterinary Receptionist vs Part Time Veterinary Receptionist?

AspectFull Time Veterinary ReceptionistPart Time Veterinary Receptionist
Work HoursTypically 35-40 hours per weekFewer hours, usually less than 30 hours per week
CredentialsSame as part-time, often no additional certifications requiredSame as full-time, may have flexible scheduling
Work EnvironmentConsistent presence in veterinary clinics, handling calls, appointments, and client interactionsSimilar environment but with reduced hours and responsibilities
Employer UsageCommon in clinics needing full coverageUsed for staffing flexibility or part-time roles

The main difference between a Full Time Veterinary Receptionist and a Part Time Veterinary Receptionist is the number of hours worked weekly. Full-time roles offer consistent hours and benefits, while part-time positions provide flexibility with fewer hours. Both roles require similar skills and credentials, and they operate in the same work environment within veterinary clinics.

Is a full time veterinary receptionist a stressful job?

A full-time veterinary receptionist often experiences stress due to managing multiple tasks such as client communication, appointment scheduling, and handling emotional situations with pet owners. The job requires strong organizational skills and the ability to stay calm under pressure, especially during busy periods or emergencies.

What are the most commonly searched types of Veterinary Receptionist jobs in Iowa?

The most popular types of Veterinary Receptionist jobs in Iowa are:

What are popular job titles related to Full Time Veterinary Receptionist jobs in Iowa?

For Full Time Veterinary Receptionist jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Full Time Veterinary Receptionist jobs in Iowa look for?

The top searched job categories for Full Time Veterinary Receptionist jobs in Iowa are:

What cities in Iowa are hiring for Full Time Veterinary Receptionist jobs?

Cities in Iowa with the most Full Time Veterinary Receptionist job openings:

Infographic showing various Full Time Veterinary Receptionist job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 22% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $30,907 per year, or $14.9 per hour.

$15/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 2 days ago


Veterinary Practice Partners rating

6.3

Company rating: 6.3 out of 10

Based on 178 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

25th of 56 rated veterinary


Job description

Receptionist - Veterinary Front Desk 

Salary: From $15/hr.

Schedule: 36-40 hours per week, including every other Saturday 

Petersen Pet Hospital is hiring a full-time customer service professional to be the knowledgeable, welcoming face at our front desk. This role goes beyond typical administrative assistant duties-it's about delivering knowledgeable service while confidently communicating in the language of veterinary care. Whether discussing vaccines, explaining procedures, or coordinating appointments, your ability to speak the lingo and anticipate client needs will directly contribute to smoother appointments, stronger client relationships, and better patient outcomes.

What to Expect

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

  • All the benefits you deserve-medical, dental, vision, and retirement for full-time team members-plus an employee pet discount because we know your pets are family, too!
  • Paid time off. Catch your breath with paid holidays and PTO. Take the time you need to recharge.
  • 401(k) with a generous company We invest in your future while you care for our pets today.
  • Hands-on training and mentorship to support long-term growth across a variety of roles within the hospital, whether you're aiming to grow in client care, or simply build a meaningful long-term role.

Key Responsibilities: 

  • Be the first point of contact: Greet clients and their pets warmly, complete the sign-in process, verify and confirm appointment details, and ensure clients feel informed and reassured.
  • Support clinical flow: Assist in relaying key information between clients and clinical staff.
  • Manage client communications: Handle incoming calls for appointments, care questions, prescription refills, and more. Make outbound calls for appointment reminders and follow-up care.
  • Operate with accuracy: Process payments, manage invoicing, and schedule future appointments with attention to detail.
  • Speak the language: Understand and communicate clearly about common vaccines, lab tests, procedures, pet behavior, and veterinary terminology.
  • Create a welcoming space: Help maintain a clean, organized, and client-ready environment-including occasionally assisting with pet-related clean-up to ensure a pleasant experience for all visitors.

Qualifications:

  • 2+ years of front desk or client-facing customer service experience, providing a warm and welcoming approach to every interaction 
  • Ability to maintain a calm, professional, and positive demeanor

About Petersen Pet Hospital
Petersen Pet Hospital in Hiawatha, Iowa is a beautiful, progressive, 8 doctor small animal practice. We are AAHA Accredited, Fear Free, pocket pet friendly upscale practice with an old-fashioned ethic of kindness, quality and caring. Our doctors and team are dedicated to making a visit to our practice a low stress event for our patients and their owners and our client testimonials attest to our success. Led by Dr. Petersen, Dr. Saunders and Dr. McGinty, our veterinarians are well educated and experienced. Most of all, they simply love animals. They are backed by a skilled support team that is friendly and enthusiastic.

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