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Veterinary Reception Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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Veterinary Receptionist

Clovis, CA ยท On-site

$16.90 - $18/hr

Keep the reception area clean, welcoming, and well-stocked. * Provide emotional support and compassion to pet owners. What We're Looking For: * Experience in a veterinary or medical office preferred.

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Veterinary Receptionist

Long Beach, CA ยท On-site

$18 - $20/hr

Keep the reception area clean, organized, and welcoming. * Handle difficult situations with empathy, patience, and professionalism. * Support the veterinary team with administrative tasks as needed.

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Veterinary Reception information

See California salary details

$9

$15

$19

How much do veterinary reception jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for veterinary reception in California is $15.61, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.23 and $17.07 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a veterinary receptionist do?

A veterinary receptionist is responsible for managing the front desk at a veterinary clinic or hospital. Their duties include greeting clients and their pets, scheduling appointments, answering phone calls, handling payments, and maintaining patient records. They play a key role in ensuring smooth communication between pet owners and veterinary staff, as well as providing compassionate customer service. Veterinary receptionists also help with administrative tasks and may assist in coordinating emergency cases. Their role is essential in creating a welcoming and efficient environment for both clients and staff.

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

To thrive as a Veterinary Receptionist, you need strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and experience in customer service, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with veterinary practice management software, appointment scheduling systems, and basic billing tools is typically required. Outstanding communication, empathy, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are key soft skills that set top performers apart. These skills are crucial for efficiently managing client interactions, supporting veterinarians, and creating a welcoming environment for both pets and their owners.

What are some common challenges faced by veterinary receptionists, and how can they effectively manage them?

Veterinary receptionists often manage a fast-paced environment where they must balance answering phones, scheduling appointments, and handling sensitive situations with pet owners. One of the main challenges is dealing with emotional clients, especially during emergencies or when delivering difficult news. Effective communication skills, empathy, and the ability to multitask are crucial for managing these situations smoothly. Building strong relationships with both the veterinary team and clients can also help foster a supportive work environment and ensure efficient workflow.

What is the difference between Veterinary Reception vs Veterinary Technician?

AspectVeterinary ReceptionVeterinary Technician
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; customer service skillsVeterinary technician certification; associate degree in veterinary technology
Work EnvironmentFront desk, client interaction, administrative tasksClinical setting, assisting veterinarians, animal care
Job ResponsibilitiesScheduling appointments, billing, client communicationPerforming lab work, assisting surgeries, animal exams

Veterinary receptionists primarily handle client communication and administrative duties, while veterinary technicians perform clinical tasks and assist veterinarians. Both roles are essential in a veterinary practice, but they differ in required credentials and daily responsibilities.

What are the most commonly searched types of Veterinary Reception jobs in California?

The most popular types of Veterinary Reception jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Veterinary Reception jobs?

Cities in California with the most Veterinary Reception job openings:

Infographic showing various Veterinary Reception job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 1% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 22% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $32,474 per year, or $15.6 per hour.

Veterinary Emergency Client Service Liaison

Ethos Veterinary Health

Fresno, CA โ€ข On-site

$20 - $22/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 27 days ago


Job description

Pay: $20.00 - $22.00 per hour
Job description:
Fresno Veterinary Specialty and Emergency Center is the premier specialty and emergency hospital in the Central Valley. We are looking for enthusiastic canidates to join our award winning team!
Ideal canidates are those who thrive in a fast paced team environment. Duties include but are not limited to:
  • Greets visitors entering the practice/hospital.
  • Be aware of upcoming Specialist schedule.
  • Assists patient owners by escorting them to exam rooms or directing them to the products or services needed.
  • Answers telephone, routes calls, provides information, and takes messages in accordance with practice/hospital procedures.
  • Receives messages for our Specialist Coordinators.
  • Receives, sorts, and distributes incoming mail. Prepares and posts daily outgoing mail.
  • Establishes and maintains patient files and records, as necessary.
  • Places incoming IDEXX results in the computer, and follows appropriate policy regarding follow through.
  • Places Radiology Reviews in the medical record.
  • Reconciles financial records by receiving and recording client payments.
  • Prepares correspondence, memos, condolence letters, and other documents, as requested.
  • Uses computer, fax, or courier service to transmit information or documents when requested.
  • Provides assistance to all practice/hospital staff and assists with special projects, as needed.
  • Answers questions and resolves complaints.
  • Maintains stock of brochures, handouts or other informative documents and provide to owners when needed.
  • Prepares prescription diets for patient owners to pick up.
  • Ensures all supplies are well stocked.
  • Keeps the front desk, reception areas, and exam rooms clean. Organizes magazines to keep current and neat. Waters and fertilizes plants.
  • Ensures all the examination rooms are clean and ready for the next patient.
  • Maintains the sanitation of the reception area and bathrooms.
  • Performs necessary duties associated with checking owners and patients in and out.
  • Updates current personal information.
  • Escorts and assists owners to their cars, as needed.

Job Type: Full-time
Benefits:
  • 401(k)
  • 401(k) matching
  • Dental insurance
  • Employee assistance program
  • Employee discount
  • Health insurance
  • Life insurance
  • Paid time off
  • Vision insurance

Experience:
  • Veterinary experience: 1 year (Preferred)
  • Customer service: 1 year (Required)