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Lead Veterinary Assistant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Lead Veterinary Assistant

Gainesville, FL · On-site

$14.25 - $18/hr

Your Impact as a Lead Veterinary Assistant As a Lead Veterinary Assistant, you are a pivotal leader on the medical support team, ensuring the highest standards of patient care and hospital operations.

Animal Medical Center San Rafael is currently looking to hire an experienced Lead Veterinary Assistant to join our team! The ideal candidate will be a dependable, detail-oriented team player who ...

Animal Medical Center San Rafael is currently looking to hire an experienced Lead Veterinary Assistant to join our team! The ideal candidate will be a dependable, detail-oriented team player who ...

Veterinary Assistant (VA)

Concord, NC · On-site

$14.25 - $18/hr

Take thorough history from clients, obtain vital signs on patients, record all in medical record, work with lead veterinary assistant, veterinarian, and other team members in obtaining diagnostic ...

Veterinary Assistant (VA)

Concord, NC · On-site

$14.25 - $18/hr

Take thorough history from clients, obtain vital signs on patients, record all in medical record, work with lead veterinary assistant, veterinarian, and other team members in obtaining diagnostic ...

... Assistant, Veterinary Assistant, or other appropriate roles. Benefits * Health Care Plan (Medical, Dental & Vision Options) * 401k Match * Generous paid time off (PTO) * Six (6) weeks of paid ...

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Lead Veterinary Assistant information

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$10

$17

$23

How much do lead veterinary assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for lead veterinary assistant in the United States is $17.24, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.14 and $18.99 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a lead veterinary assistant?

Lead Veterinary Assistants are experienced veterinary support professionals who oversee the daily operations of veterinary assistants within an animal care facility. They assist veterinarians during examinations and procedures, manage patient records, and often help train and mentor new staff members. In addition to providing direct animal care, Lead Veterinary Assistants coordinate workflow, ensure adherence to clinic protocols, and serve as a bridge between the veterinary team and support staff. Their role is essential in maintaining a high standard of patient care and efficient clinic operations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a lead veterinary assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Lead Veterinary Assistant, you need a solid background in animal care, medical procedures, and veterinary terminology, often supported by a certificate in veterinary assisting and relevant experience. Familiarity with veterinary practice management software, laboratory equipment, and animal restraint techniques is essential. Strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills help you coordinate teams and support veterinarians effectively. These skills ensure high standards of animal care, efficient clinic operations, and a positive environment for both staff and clients.

What are some common challenges faced by a lead veterinary assistant, and how can they be managed?

As a Lead Veterinary Assistant, one common challenge is balancing administrative responsibilities with hands-on patient care. You'll often oversee scheduling, inventory, and mentoring junior assistants while also assisting veterinarians during procedures. Managing time effectively and maintaining clear communication with both the veterinary team and clients is essential. Developing strong organizational skills and fostering a collaborative environment can help ensure smooth clinic operations and high-quality patient care.

What is the difference between Lead Veterinary Assistant vs Veterinary Assistant?

AspectLead Veterinary AssistantVeterinary Assistant
CertificationsOften requires certification or specialized trainingTypically no formal certification required
Work EnvironmentSupervises staff, manages daily operationsSupports veterinarians and technicians in clinical tasks
ResponsibilitiesOversees other assistants, handles inventory, assists with complex proceduresPrepares exam rooms, restrains animals, assists with basic procedures

The Lead Veterinary Assistant generally has more responsibilities, including supervising staff and managing daily operations, while the Veterinary Assistant focuses on supporting veterinarians with routine clinical tasks. Both roles are essential in veterinary clinics, but the lead position involves additional leadership and organizational duties.

What cities are hiring for Lead Veterinary Assistant jobs?

Cities with the most Lead Veterinary Assistant job openings:

What states have the most Lead Veterinary Assistant jobs?

States with the most job openings for Lead Veterinary Assistant jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Lead Veterinary Assistant jobs?

For Lead Veterinary Assistant jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Lead Veterinary Assistant job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,859 per year, or $17.2 per hour.

Lead Veterinary Assistant

Gainesville, FL • On-site

Mission Pet Health
10K+ employees

$14.25 - $18/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 11 days ago


Mission Pet Health rating

6.1

Company rating: 6.1 out of 10

Based on 24 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

General Information
Ref #
54550
Department
Vet Tech / Vet Assistant / VT Campus
Job Site
Shores Animal Hospital
Date Published
09-02-2026
Pay Class
Full-Time
Working Arrangement
On-site
Base Min.
$ 20
Base Max.
$ 25
Description & Requirements
Company Overview
You are invited to join Shores Animal Hospital, a dedicated veterinary practice that has provided comprehensive care to the Gainesville community since 1974. We are proud of the deep trust we have built with pet owners, reflected in our excellent 4.7-star Google rating. Our core mission is treating every pet like our own while focusing on high-quality medical services and patient wellness. If you are seeking an opportunity where you can genuinely connect with clients and dedicate yourself to advanced small animal medicine, this is where you can do your best work.
Joining our team means you are joining a culture built for success. We are deeply committed to fostering an environment where all teammates feel supported, heard, and encouraged to grow. As part of a larger network, you will have access to educational opportunities and collaborative internal specialty consultations, ensuring you always have the resources necessary to make the best decisions for your patients. We believe in investing in our teammates, offering structured programs designed to help you achieve long-term career goals, whether that means advancing into leadership or becoming a credentialed technician. We provide the stability and support necessary for you to succeed.
Shores Animal Hospital is equipped to provide comprehensive care covering the full spectrum of small animal veterinary services. We offer advanced veterinary medicine, complete wellness and prevention programs, sophisticated testing and diagnostics, and complex surgical procedures. Our ability to provide urgent care services means you will handle diverse and stimulating caseloads daily. We also support innovative workflow solutions like drop-off services, allowing you to maximize efficiency while ensuring every patient receives the attention and quality medical treatment they deserve.
Gainesville, Florida, offers a welcoming community known for its Southern charm and intellectual vibrancy. As a city rich in history, you will be joining a practice that has been a cornerstone of local pet health since 1974. Gainesville provides excellent quality of life with access to beautiful natural springs and parks, offering a perfect balance between professional dedication and outdoor enjoyment. Come build your life and career in a community that genuinely respects and values its dedicated veterinary professionals.
Job Description
Your Impact as a Lead Veterinary Assistant
As a Lead Veterinary Assistant, you are a pivotal leader on the medical support team, ensuring the highest standards of patient care and hospital operations. You will serve as the primary point of contact for medical support staff, guiding workflows, modeling our values, and fostering a collaborative and supportive culture. You are the bridge between hospital leadership and the team, helping to implement protocols and mentor the next generation of veterinary professionals.
Your Impact Will Include:
  • Leading the Shift: You will act as a shift leader, coordinating workflow, assigning tasks, and ensuring optimal staff coverage to keep the hospital running smoothly.
  • Mentoring the Team: You'll mentor and support veterinary technicians and assistants, providing guidance, onboarding support, and opportunities for development.
  • Driving Improvements: You will identify gaps or inefficiencies in workflows and partner with the hospital manager to recommend and implement solutions.
  • Supporting Patient Care: You'll support veterinarians in providing patient care, maintaining accurate medical records, and upholding infection control standards.
  • Enhancing Client Experience: You will provide exceptional client support, from scheduling and check-ins to explaining discharge instructions and estimates.
  • Maintaining Standards: You will ensure the hospital remains clean, organized, and safe, upholding all protocols and equipment maintenance standards.
What You'll Bring to the Team
  • High school diploma or equivalent.
  • Strong ability to lead by example, motivate others, and maintain composure in high-pressure situations.
  • Proficiency in veterinary assistant functions, including patient handling, cleaning protocols, and client communication.
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
  • Comfort working with a wide range of animals, including those that may be fractious or fearful.
  • Ability to lift up to 50 pounds unassisted and stand/walk for extended periods.
  • 7+ years of Veterinary Assistant experience is preferred.
  • 3+ years of leadership experience is preferred.

Responsibilities and Benefits
How You're Supported
As part of the Mission Pet Health family, you get the stability of a local practice backed by the comprehensive benefits and resources of a larger network. The focus is on investing in you, so you can focus on what you love.
Note: Our comprehensive benefits package is designed to support you at every stage. Eligibility for specific benefits varies based on your role and hours worked.
Competitive Compensation
A competitive hourly rate or salary based on your experience and role.
Health & Wellbeing
We offer comprehensive coverage options including Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance, along with access to our Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for all teammates.
Financial Security
Plan for your future with our 401k retirement options and additional financial protection benefits like Life Insurance and Disability coverage.
Commitment to Growth
We support your career goals with opportunities for professional development, including educational assistance for qualified teammates to enroll in AVMA-accredited veterinary technician programs.
The Power of a Network
Join a nationwide community of over 20,000 veterinary professionals who share a passion for collaboration, career growth, and sharing best practices.
Valuable Perks
Enjoy discounted veterinary care for your own pets, access to an online discount platform, and free 24/7 access to doctors through Teladoc.
About Mission Pet Health
Mission Pet Health was founded by veterinarians on the belief that local practices thrive with clinical autonomy, collaboration, and medical excellence. The organization provides world-class support to its 850+ hospital teams on a hyper-local basis so they can focus on what matters most: the medicine, their patients, and their team culture. Learn more at missionpethealth.com.
Driving the award-winning culture are the WAG values - Work Together, Amaze, and Grow. Mission Pet Health is veterinarian-led, people-focused, and on a mission to be the best place to work in veterinary medicine. We are proud to be recognized as a 2025 "Most Loved Workplace," ranked #2 in America's Top 100 and #1 in veterinary care.
Reasonable Accommodations: Applicants with disabilities may be entitled to reasonable accommodation. Please contact benefits@mvetpartners.com with your request and contact information.
EEO Statement: Mission Pet Health is an equal opportunity employer. We embrace diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.

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