Veterinary Receptionist

Harvester Veterinary Hospital of Burr Ridge is seeking a dedicated and client-focused Veterinary Receptionist to join our team. This position is open to candidates who bring strong transferable experience from adjacent fields, including human medical or dental offices, urgent care clinics, emergency services, or high-volume hospitality and customer service environments.

We are looking for a professional who demonstrates composure under pressure, a genuine affinity for animals, and the interpersonal skills to support clients across a wide range of experiences — including those that are emotionally demanding. Veterinary-specific knowledge is not required; comprehensive onboarding and training will be provided.

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

Structured onboarding and mentorship covering veterinary workflows, software, and medical terminology

Professional development opportunities

Employee pet discount because we know your pets are family, too.

Salary: $16 - $20 per hour, determined by the candidate's skills, experience, and qualifications.

Schedule : This is a part-time position averaging 20–30 hours per week. We offer a flexible schedule, with every other Saturday required from 7:30 AM to 1:30 PM.

Responsibilities

Greet and check in clients and patients at the front desk, collect intake information, and confirm appointment details in a professional and welcoming manner

Answer and manage a multi-line telephone system, directing calls and responding to inquiries regarding scheduling, services, and general information

Perform client check-out, including payment processing, posting charges, and scheduling future appointments

Provide composed and compassionate customer service to clients experiencing anxiety, distress, or difficult news regarding their pet's health

Perform accurate data entry and maintain organized records in the practice management system following onboarding and training

Communicate effectively with clinical staff to relay messages, flag urgent situations, and support efficient daily operations

Maintain a clean, organized, and welcoming reception and waiting area

Qualifications

Minimum 1 year of experience in a front desk, receptionist, or customer service role in a medical, dental, urgent care, veterinary, or high-volume service environment

Proven customer service skills with strong verbal and written communication, including active listening and conflict resolution

Experience with appointment scheduling, multi-line phone systems, data entry, and payment processing or point-of-sale (POS)

Strong organizational skills and attention to detail; ability to multitask effectively in a fast-paced environment

Proficient in Microsoft Office; comfortable learning new software and workflows

Reliable, punctual, and professional; ability to work independently and as part of a team

Genuine affinity for animals and comfort working in a clinical setting

Experience in a veterinary clinic, animal care facility, or medical office; familiarity with veterinary or medical terminology; or PIMS software experience (Cornerstone, Avimark, ImproMed, eVetPractice, or ezyVet) is considered a strong asset.

About Harvester Veterinary Hospital of Burr Ridge Harvester Veterinary Hospital is proud to be part of the Burr Ridge and Chicago communities, helping pets and owners alike get the care, service, and support necessary to ensure that they can spend their lives together in happiness and good health. Our veterinary team is dedicated to serving the full range of medical needs for common pets, providing everything from routine examinations to potentially lifesaving surgical procedures - and everything in between.