Career Opportunities

Client Service Representative 

INTRODUCTION

The purpose of this position is to serve as receptionist at Pacific and Santa Cruz Veterinary Specialists, to perform record keeping duties, to perform clerical duties related to animal patient care and treatment, and to provide miscellaneous support to the veterinary practice manager and staff.   This position requires a practical knowledge of hospital organization and services, the basic rules and regulations governing visitors and animal patient treatment, data entry, word processing, mail service, and a practical knowledge of the standard procedures, veterinary records and terminology used in the hospital.

Primary Job Responsibilities

• Open the practice and set up for the morning as directed.

• Close the practice for the evening as directed.

• Clean and straighten the public areas of the practice including the front desk, reception area, waiting area, office, public bathroom and exam rooms.

• Welcome clients and patients to the practice and provide for their comfort while they are in the practice. This includes greeting clients, offering coffee, showing them to waiting area, etc.

• Answer incoming telephone calls utilizing proper telephone etiquette. Screen those calls that are handled by other staff members and take care of routine calls.  Routine calls include those seeking information about veterinary services.  Provide knowledgeable sub-professional advice concerning the care and treatment of animals including questions regarding hospital services, fees, animal care and treatment in accordance with hospital policies.  Appropriately direct other questions and communication to a veterinarian, practice manager, or other staff members. Access company email throughout the day and correspond as needed. 

• Prepare to receive appointments by reviewing client and patient records and preparing needed forms in advance of clients’ arrival. Complete required forms such as new client form, trial pet insurance, pre exam checklist, tracking sheets, consent forms, payment agreements, etc. and obtain all necessary information. Scanning and attaching medical documents into the electronic medical record.

• Handle emergency situations by following established clinic policies and procedures in referring clients for immediate treatment of their animals when requests are accompanied by complaints of acute symptoms. Determine nature of injury/illness and attempt to reassure distressed pet owners. 

• Follow hospital policies regarding patient admittance. Determine whether immunizations/tests are current.  Recommend update of necessary immunizations/tests to clients.

• Notify doctors and technicians of patient arrival.

• Ensure patient’s discharge instructions are electronically signed. Ensure that future reminders are set up in the computer system for the patient.

• Present clients with medications, instructions, new client kits and any other items to take home.

• Review the services that were rendered to the pet (verbally itemize the client receipt) and inform client of the total amount due. Assure that owners meet all financial obligations or that acceptable arrangements have been made.

• Accept payments from the client. Accurately process cash, checks, charge card payments and Care Credit and Scratch pay account payments.

• Schedule appointments for the clinic after obtaining all necessary data concerning the animal and owner. Prepare all required forms such as animal clinical records, health certificates, immunization certificates, lab reports and euthanasia certificates in advance, if possible.

• Perform over the counter selling of pet foods and supplies. Exercise a technical knowledge of products sold. Must be able to lift up to 28 lbs.

• Enter data into the computer system as required. Retrieve and modify stored records.  Assist in the updating of client/patient files as needed including name, address, telephone numbers, email addresses and vaccination and heartworm history.

• Retrieve and scan medical records accurately and promptly.

• Perform an end of day procedure each evening. This would include reconciling invoices and balancing the cash drawer, running end-of day computer reports, preparing the bank deposit and presenting the reports and deposit information to the practice manger or owner.

• Performs other duties as assigned.

CONTROLS OVER WORK

The Client Services Representative works under the direct supervision of the Client Services Supervisor who will indicate general assignments, limitations and priorities.  Recurring assignments are performed independently.  Completed work is reviewed for technical accuracy and compliance with established procedures.

OTHER SIGNIFICANT FACTS

Skills and Knowledge:     

• Knowledge of hospital procedures and operating instructions for making appointments, assembling patient medical records, recording test results, relaying information regarding patient’s condition, and compiling and submitting data on patients treated.
• Knowledge of the spelling and meaning of commonly used terminology of veterinary medicine to accurately record results of tests.
• Knowledge of scanning , faxing, emailing and importing data into practice management system.
• Personal contacts are with animal owners affected by a variety of problems, visitors and other staff members. Considerable tact and diplomacy is required. Must accurately relay owner’s account on the medical complaint(s) of the animal(s) involved to the staff members who will be involved in treating the patient(s).

Position Overview

Emergency veterinary technicians are under the direct guidance and supervision of the doctor. Incumbents of this position are required to assist the practitioners to the fullest possible extent, to help improve the quality of care given to the patients of Pacific and Santa Cruz Veterinary specialists and to aid the practitioners in achieving greater efficiency by relieving them of technical work and administrative detail.

Essential Position Functions

• Prepare for shifts by stocking drawers in exam rooms and treatment area. By setting up flush syringes, catheter kits and assuring that drugs and equipment are ready. Provide restraint of pets for examination and treatment by veterinarian.  Prepare medications (both injections and dispensed medications) for both outpatients and inpatients. Log controlled substances.
• Help doctor administer anesthetics; prepare patients for surgery; monitor patients during surgery and recovery; assist in surgery; administer fluids; perform support therapy to patients in surgery and post-op;
• Properly clean, pack and autoclave all surgical materials after they are used. Keep the operating room properly stocked and prepared for surgery.
• Assist the doctor with treatment of patients; assist in medical or surgical procedures such as irrigating, cleansing, and bandaging wounds, administering and monitoring anesthesia for critical and injured animals, monitoring fluid administration and urine output, reading an ECG and blood pressure (Doppler and cardell), placing urinary and intravenous catheters, administering emergency medications and performing doctors’ orders in extreme emergency situations, and pain assessment.
• Keep accurate and timely charts of all patient progress and treatments. Enter all charges into the computer system during every shift.
• Perform clinical laboratory procedures such as blood chemistries, CBC, electrolytes, heartworm checks, skin scrapings, urinalysis, fungal cultures, draw blood for laboratory analysis. Prepare samples for shipment to laboratory and prepare laboratory forms.  Perform other in-house tests such as parvo virus tests, and feline leukemia virus tests.  Ensure patient records have test results recorded in them through CS.
• Take radiographs.
• Provide for the care and comfort of all patients in the ICU and kennels, including changing bedding, assessing pain and discomfort, and providing pain medications.
• Admit and discharge patients on the doctor’s orders, being especially careful to ensure that patients being discharged are well-groomed and in a medically appropriate state. Answer client questions one-on-one on various aspects of animal care up to, but not including, controversial items and/or those best left to the veterinarians.  Pass on information/advice from the practitioners; explain dosage/purpose of medications; reinforce thorough discussion of the proper care and procedures that should be followed at home.  Provide follow-up and updates on the progress of hospitalized patients with clients concerning certain patients; recommend additional visit and/or follow up with doctor’s recommendation if patient’s progress does not appear satisfactory.
• Assist the receptionist when necessary and assume her duties during her absence.
• Maintain an appropriate inventory of all supplies as dictated by the inventory control system. Inform inventory manager as needed about items that need to be ordered. Unpack boxes of medical supplies, check expiration dates, rotate stock and ensure that all ICU areas are appropriately stocked and clean.  Make sure all products and literature are identified with labels. Keep abreast of over-the-counter products and their usage such as flea control and skin products, vitamins, and pet foods.  Also understand usage and recommendations for prescription drugs.
• Maintain hospital cleanliness by performing cleaning tasks on daily, weekly and monthly lists that are located within the department.

Controls Over Work

The practitioners provide continuing or individual assignments indicating generally what is to be done, limitations, quality and quantity expected, deadlines and priority of assignments. The practitioners provide additional, specific instructions for new, difficult or unusual assignments in animal health care, including suggested work methods or advice on source materials available. The ICU Technician uses initiative in carrying out recurring assignments independently without specific instructions, but refers deviations, problems, and unfamiliar situations not covered by instructions to the practitioner for decision or help. The practitioners assure that finished work and methods used are technically accurate and in compliance with instructions or established procedures.  Review of the work increases with more difficult assignments, if the technician has not previously performed similar assignments. Administrative supervision may be provided by the Practice Manager and/ or Administrator.

Advancement

Veterinary Technicians in this practice will be taught and trained to the limits of their potential. If, during training, an individual shows interest in a specific field, such as radiology or anesthesiology, continuing education in that field will be encouraged.  Such encouragement may be in the form of a subsidy for taking outside courses or formal training given in the practice.

Other Significant Facts

Knowledge:

• RVT or equivalent; minimum 3-5 years of critical care, intensive care, and emergency experience
• Knowledge of the procedures used for care and monitoring of patients, for ordering medical supplies, and requesting laboratory tests.
• Knowledge of the use, care, and storage of veterinary instruments, materials, and equipment.
• Knowledge of sterilization techniques to sterilize various instruments and materials.
• Knowledge of the instruments, materials, and standardized procedures used in the full variety of treatments to make preparations and provide assistance to DVM.

Skills:

• TPR/ physical assessment
• Drug administration/ dosage calculation
• Venipuncture
• Catheter placement – both venous and urinary
• Cystocentesis – “blind” stick and ultrasound guided
• CPR
• Critical care and emergency assessment skills
• Record/ interpret ECG
• Radiology
• Anesthesiology
• Surgical assisting
• Post surgical care/ monitoring
• Perform laboratory tests; CBC, Chem, UA, viral tests, PT/PTT, etc.
• Set up and monitoring of equipment such as Doppler, Cardell, SpO2, ECG, IV fluid pumps, anesthesia machines, suction pumps, crash cart, O2 cage
• Recognition and knowledge of infectious/ zoonotic disease
• Customer service/ communication skills

Physical Effort

Work often requires lifting and carrying animals which may weigh upwards of 100 lbs.  Technicians will be assisted by each other in working with larger animals. Walks or stands for extended periods of time; frequently works in bent position.

Working Conditions

Work often exposes the ICU Technician to unpleasant odors and noises.  May be exposed to bites, scratches, and animal waste; may also be exposed to contagious diseases.

Join Our Team as an Internist at Pacific and Santa Cruz Veterinary Specialists!

Pacific and Santa Cruz Veterinary Specialists is thrilled to invite an Internist  to join our team of dedicated veterinary professionals. At Pacific and Santa Cruz, we foster a unique, supportive culture where collaboration, mutual respect, and enjoying our work environment are key values. We believe in making a difference for our patients and clients while genuinely enjoying the company of our colleagues.

Why Santa Cruz?

Santa Cruz, CA, is nestled between the stunning Pacific coastline and lush redwood forests, is a dynamic city known for its laid-back lifestyle, active outdoor scene, and thriving tech, education, and creative industries. Whether you're surfing in the morning, hiking scenic trails, or enjoying local art and culture, Santa Cruz offers a unique blend of relaxation and opportunity. Join us and become part of a community that values sustainability, diversity, and work-life balance!

Why You'll Love Working Here:

At Pacific and Santa Cruz Veterinary Specialists, we take the well-being of our employees seriously. We promote a balanced work-life culture and offer flexible working conditions to ensure our team members thrive both professionally and personally. We also provide a comprehensive benefits package, which includes:

• Incredible earning potential with high minimum base & a generous production plan
• Sign-on bonus available
• Generous relocation assistance provided
• Highly competitive salary, quality health insurance (medical, dental, vision, FSA/HSA options), 401K retirement plans with employer contribution, paid time off, generous continuing education allowance and additional paid time off, numerous discounts through our partners and reimbursement for membership due including maintenance of board certification

What We're Looking For:

We're looking for an experienced veterinarian to help lead a high-quality medical team, foster teamwork, and ensure efficient hospital operations. You’ll work closely with the Hospital Manager and report to the Regional Manager.

Key Responsibilities

• Patient Care: Conduct exams, diagnostics, and prescribe treatments.
• Client Communication: Educate pet owners on diagnoses and treatments; provide timely updates.
• Surgery & Diagnostics: Perform and oversee surgical procedures and diagnostic tests.
• Team Leadership: Mentor staff, maintain efficiency, and promote teamwork.
• Financial Management: Estimate treatment costs and manage resources.
• Education & Training: Participate in continuing education and train staff.

Qualifications

• Education: DVM from an accredited college.
• Licensure: State Veterinary License and DEA registration.
• Experience: 5+ years in veterinary practice with leadership experience.

For further inquiries or to submit your application, please contact Julia Stephens at jstephens@petvetcarecenters.com or apply online here.

Join Our Team as an Emergency Veterinarian at Pacific and Santa Cruz Veterinary Specialists!

Pacific and Santa Cruz Veterinary Specialists is thrilled to invite a Full-Time Overnight Emergency Veterinarian to join our team of dedicated veterinary professionals. At Pacific and Santa Cruz, we foster a unique, supportive culture where collaboration, mutual respect, and enjoying our work environment are key values. We believe in making a difference for our patients and clients while genuinely enjoying the company of our colleagues.

Why Santa Cruz?

Santa Cruz, CA, is nestled between the stunning Pacific coastline and lush redwood forests, is a dynamic city known for its laid-back lifestyle, active outdoor scene, and thriving tech, education, and creative industries. Whether you're surfing in the morning, hiking scenic trails, or enjoying local art and culture, Santa Cruz offers a unique blend of relaxation and opportunity. Join us and become part of a community that values sustainability, diversity, and work-life balance!

Why You'll Love Working Here:

At Pacific and Santa Cruz Veterinary Specialists, we take the well-being of our employees seriously. We promote a balanced work-life culture and offer flexible working conditions to ensure our team members thrive both professionally and personally. We also provide a comprehensive benefits package, which includes:

• Incredible earning potential with high minimum base & a generous production plan
• Sign-on bonus available
• Generous relocation assistance provided
• Highly competitive salary, quality health insurance (medical, dental, vision, FSA/HSA options), 401K retirement plans with employer contribution, paid time off, generous continuing education allowance and additional paid time off, numerous discounts through our partners and reimbursement for membership due including maintenance of board certification

What We're Looking For:

We're looking for an experienced veterinarian to help lead a high-quality medical team, foster teamwork, and ensure efficient hospital operations. You’ll work closely with the Hospital Manager and report to the Regional Manager.

Key Responsibilities:

• Patient Care: Conduct comprehensive exams, record medical histories, interpret diagnostics, and perform surgeries.
• Client Communication: Explain medical findings, answer questions, and provide regular updates on patients.
• Record Keeping: Maintain thorough, legible records following AAHA standards.
• Medication & Pharmacy: Prescribe medications, review labels, and secure controlled substances.
• Team Collaboration: Support staff, ensure timely appointments, and maintain a positive work environment.
• Financials: Accurately estimate costs, communicate fees, and conserve hospital resources.
• Continued Learning: Attend and share insights from continuing education, assist with staff training.

Additional Responsibilities:

• Collaborate with medical staff to enhance hospital performance and participate in marketing efforts.
• Address client concerns, evaluate protocols, and assist with budgeting and scheduling.
• Participate in operational calls and training updates.

Qualifications:

• DVM from an accredited university with an active veterinary license.
• Minimum 5 years of veterinary experience, including staff oversight.
• Strong communication, clinical, and teamwork skills.
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds and perform moderate physical tasks.

For further inquiries or to submit your application, please contact Julia Stephens at jstephens@petvetcarecenters.com or apply online here.

Join Our Team as an Oncologist at Pacific and Santa Cruz Veterinary Specialists!

Pacific and Santa Cruz Veterinary Specialists is thrilled to invite a Board-Certified or Residency-Trained Oncologist to join our team of dedicated veterinary professionals. At Pacific and Santa Cruz, we foster a unique, supportive culture where collaboration, mutual respect, and enjoying our work environment are key values. We believe in making a difference for our patients and clients while genuinely enjoying the company of our colleagues.

Why Santa Cruz?

Santa Cruz, CA, is nestled between the stunning Pacific coastline and lush redwood forests, is a dynamic city known for its laid-back lifestyle, active outdoor scene, and thriving tech, education, and creative industries. Whether you're surfing in the morning, hiking scenic trails, or enjoying local art and culture, Santa Cruz offers a unique blend of relaxation and opportunity. Join us and become part of a community that values sustainability, diversity, and work-life balance!

Why You'll Love Working Here:

At Pacific and Santa Cruz Veterinary Specialists, we take the well-being of our employees seriously. We promote a balanced work-life culture and offer flexible working conditions to ensure our team members thrive both professionally and personally. We also provide a comprehensive benefits package, which includes:

• Incredible earning potential with high minimum base & a generous production plan
• Sign-on bonus available
• Generous relocation assistance provided
• Highly competitive salary, quality health insurance (medical, dental, vision, FSA/HSA options), 401K retirement plans with employer contribution, paid time off, generous continuing education allowance and additional paid time off, numerous discounts through our partners and reimbursement for membership due including maintenance of board certification

What We're Looking For:

We're looking for an experienced veterinarian to help lead a high-quality medical team, foster teamwork, and ensure efficient hospital operations. You’ll work closely with the Hospital Manager and report to the Regional Manager.

Key Responsibilities

• Patient Care: Conduct exams, diagnostics, and prescribe treatments.
• Client Communication: Educate pet owners on diagnoses and treatments; provide timely updates.
• Team Leadership: Mentor staff, maintain efficiency, and promote teamwork.
• Financial Management: Estimate treatment costs and manage resources.
• Education & Training: Participate in continuing education and train staff.

Qualifications

• Education: DVM from an accredited college.
• Licensure: State Veterinary License and DEA registration.
• Experience: 5+ years in veterinary practice with leadership experience.

For further inquiries or to submit your application, please contact Julia Stephens at jstephens@petvetcarecenters.com or apply online here.